Roofing Calculator

Estimate roofing materials from the building footprint and roof pitch. Get roof area, squares, shingle bundles, and underlayment.

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Results

Enter your measurements to see an estimate.

Detailed breakdown

How to use the undefined

Enter the building footprint (length and width) and the roof pitch as rise per 12 inches of run. The pitch converts the flat footprint into the true sloped area. Set the coverage per roofing square (100 sq ft is standard) and a waste allowance. The tool estimates squares, shingle bundles, and underlayment rolls.

Formula and methodology

Footprint = length × width. Slope factor = √(pitch² + 144) ÷ 12. Roof area = footprint × slope factor. Adjusted = area × (1 + waste%/100). Squares = adjusted ÷ 100. Bundles = squares × 3 (three bundles per square). Underlayment rolls ≈ adjusted ÷ 400.

Worked example

Roof: 40 ft × 30 ft footprint, 6:12 pitch, 10% waste. Slope factor = √(36+144)÷12 ≈ 1.118. Area = 1200 × 1.118 = 1342 sq ft, with waste 1476 = 14.8 squares, about 45 bundles. Enter the values above to confirm.

Helpful measurement tips

  • Steeper pitches add significant area — do not estimate from the footprint alone.
  • Hips, valleys, and complex shapes increase waste; raise the allowance.
  • Order starter and ridge caps separately from field shingles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a roofing square?
A roofing square is 100 square feet of roof surface. Materials like shingles and underlayment are commonly sold and estimated by the square.
How many bundles are in a square?
Most architectural shingles come three bundles to a square. Heavier or premium shingles may need four bundles per square.
How does pitch affect the estimate?
A steeper pitch increases the true surface area above the footprint. The slope factor accounts for this automatically.
How much waste should I add?
About 10% for simple gable roofs, and 15% or more for roofs with many hips, valleys, and penetrations.
Do I need underlayment?
Yes, underlayment is a standard layer beneath shingles. It is estimated here in rolls of roughly 400 square feet.
Is measuring a roof safe?
Roof work is hazardous. Where possible, measure from the ground or use aerial tools, and consider a professional measurement.
Disclaimer: Measuring or working on a roof can be dangerous and professional measurement may be advisable. Results are general estimates only, not engineering advice.