What Is a Roofing Materials Calculator?
A roofing materials calculator is a tool used to estimate the amount of roofing material needed for a project. It calculates the number of "squares" (100 sq ft sections) and shingle bundles required by using your home's ground-level footprint and adjusting for the roof's pitch and a necessary waste factor.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the ground-level area your roof covers (not the roof surface area).
- Select your roof's pitch (its steepness).
- Choose your roofing material type.
- Enter a waste factor (10-15% is standard).
- Click "Calculate" to get your material estimate.
Understanding Your Roofing Material Estimate
- Roofing Squares Needed: This is the total number of squares required for your project. This figure includes a waste factor and accounts for the roof's pitch. Shingles, underlayment, and other materials are sold by the square.
- Shingle Bundles Needed: This is an estimate based on the standard of 3 bundles of asphalt shingles per square. This can vary by manufacturer, so always confirm before purchasing.
Learn More About Roofing
To understand different material types and the importance of pitch, check out our detailed Roofing Guide.