Correct measurement of the roof will ensure that you order the right quantities of shingles, avoiding costly delays or oversights. As a homeowner building a DIY project or even as a contractor, you need to know how to measure for roof shingles so that you can get an estimated cost of the project.
What You’ll Need Before Measuring
Collect the following tools:
- a 25-foot tape measurer or laser measurer
- a firm ladder
- harness, non-slip boots, gloves
- a notebook, and a roof diagram template
Never measure alone, tie off your ladder, and never work during wet or gusty conditions. Inspect your gear to make sure that it’s trustworthy.
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Draw Your Roof: Planes, Shapes & Diagrams
Begin by mapping out your roof’s design. Divide it into workable sections or “planes” (rectangles, triangles, or trapezoids) depending on its shape. Number each plane clearly; e.g., “front slope” or “dormer triangle.” Note any features such as chimneys or skylights. Having a clear diagram keeps you in order and prevents you from leaving out any areas.
Measure, Then Calculate Area for Every Roof Section
Measure all planes’ sizes in feet. Apply the following formulas from This Old House:
- Rectangle: length × width
- Triangle: (base × height) ÷ 2
- Trapezoid: ((top + bottom) × height) ÷ 2
Add up all plane areas to arrive at the total surface area. Double-check measurements to prevent mistakes.
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Apply a Slope Multiplier to Correct Measurement
Roof slope (or pitch) adds to the actual surface area. A higher roof needs more shingles. Measure pitch with a ruler and a level or a pitch gauge. For a 6:12 pitch (6 inches rise over 12 inches run), apply a factor of 1.118. Apply your total flat area times this factor.
What’s a Roofing “Square”?
A roofing “square” is 100 square feet, the customary measure for shingle quotes. Divide your adjusted total area by 100..
How Many Bundles Will You Need?
Each shingle bundle covers roughly 33 ft², so three bundles make one square. For 23 squares, you’d need 69 bundles. Always check the manufacturer’s coverage specs, as they vary. Add 10-15% extra for waste, cuts, and overlaps, especially for complex roofs with valleys or dormers. For 69 bundles, add 7–10 more, totaling 76–79 bundles.
Read more: How to install roofing shingles?
Tech Assistance: Utilize Calculators, Drone, or Air Estimates
Measuring is made easy with digital tools. Web-based calculators calculate areas and volumes based on your inputs. For accuracy, you may also use drone services, which provide extensive roof reports. These resources are best used on complex roofs or if you dislike climbing.
Final Thoughts
How to Measure for Roof Shingles? Precise measurement saves time, money, and stress during shingle ordering. Use these steps to make it precise, or leave it to ONLY ROOFING. Reach us for a professional estimate and free quote to get your roofing project flowing smoothly!
