Roof Area Formula:
From: | To: |
Square footage for roof shingles refers to the total area of a roof that needs to be covered with shingles. It's typically measured in square feet and is essential for determining how many shingles you'll need for a roofing project.
The calculator uses a simple formula:
Where:
Explanation: For simple rectangular roof areas, multiply the length by the width to get the total square footage. For more complex roof shapes, you may need to break the roof into multiple rectangular sections and add them together.
Details: Accurate roof measurements are crucial for purchasing the correct amount of shingles, avoiding waste or shortage, and ensuring proper budgeting for your roofing project.
Tips: Measure the length and width of your roof in feet. Enter these values into the calculator. For complex roofs, calculate each section separately and add the results.
Q1: How much extra should I add for waste?
A: Typically, add 10-15% to your total square footage to account for cutting waste, starter strips, and ridge caps.
Q2: What if my roof has multiple sections?
A: Calculate each rectangular section separately, then add all the square footages together for the total.
Q3: How do I measure roof pitch?
A: Roof pitch affects the actual surface area. For pitched roofs, you'll need to use a pitch multiplier to get the true surface area.
Q4: What's the difference between roof area and square footage?
A: Square footage refers to the actual surface area of the roof, which may be larger than the footprint of the building due to pitch and overhangs.
Q5: How many shingles are in a square?
A: A "square" in roofing terms equals 100 square feet. Most shingle bundles cover about 33.3 square feet, so you'll need 3 bundles per square.