RoofCont provides expert roofing, siding and contractor services, specializing in installations, repairs, and replacements for residential and commercial properties.
RoofCont provides expert roofing, siding and contractor services, specializing in installations, repairs, and replacements for residential and commercial properties.
A bundle of shingles is a package of roofing shingles. Roofers use these bundles to cover roofs, and three bundles usually make up a full square. But what does that mean?
A “square” in roofing terms means 100 square feet of roof coverage. So, if three bundles make a square, then each bundle typically covers around 33.3 square feet. However, the exact coverage can vary depending on the type of shingle.
In this blog, I will let you know “How Many Square Feet in a Bundle of Shingles?”
Some brands may have variations, and the type of shingle also plays a role in coverage. For example, heavier and thicker shingles cover less area than standard ones. This is why it’s always important to check the manufacturer’s specifications before purchasing shingles for your roof.
Shingle bundles are designed to be easy to carry and transport. If a single bundle covers too much area, it might become too heavy to handle, especially when moving it up onto the roof.
The most common answer is:
| Type of Shingle | Coverage Per Bundle (sq ft) |
|---|---|
| 3-Tab Asphalt Shingles | 32-33 sq ft |
| Architectural Shingles | 30-33 sq ft |
| Heavy-Duty Shingles | 25-30 sq ft |
So, the coverage per bundle is between 25 to 33 square feet, depending on the brand and type.
Additionally, some premium shingles, like designer or luxury shingles, may provide even less coverage per bundle due to their extra thickness and durability. This means you may need more bundles to complete your roofing project.
The weight of a bundle also varies. Lighter 3-tab shingles weigh around 50-80 lbs per bundle, while architectural and designer shingles can weigh 65-100 lbs per bundle. This affects handling and installation time.
Not all bundles are the same size! Here’s why:
Another reason coverage differs is the design of the shingles. Some come in larger sizes that provide wider coverage with fewer pieces, while others may have intricate designs that require more material per square foot.
Shingles also come in different materials like asphalt, wood, metal, and synthetic. Each material has different coverage rates and installation methods.
To calculate this, follow these steps:
Example: If your roof is 2,000 square feet:
Other factors, such as roof pitch and waste, can increase this number. It’s best to order a little extra to avoid running out of materials mid-project.
Yes! Roof slope directly affects the number of bundles you need. A steeper roof has more surface area due to the incline, requiring more shingles than a flat or low-slope roof. The higher the pitch, the greater the amount of overlap and waste.
Here’s a roof slope multiplier chart to help estimate how much extra shingle material you’ll need:
| Roof Slope (Pitch) | Multiplier | Example for 2,000 sq ft Roof |
|---|---|---|
| Flat (1/12 – 2/12) | 1.00x | 2,000 sq ft (No extra needed) |
| Low Slope (3/12) | 1.15x | 2,000 x 1.15 = 2,300 sq ft |
| Medium Slope (6/12) | 1.25x | 2,000 x 1.25 = 2,500 sq ft |
| Steep Roof (9/12 – 12/12) | 1.40x | 2,000 x 1.40 = 2,800 sq ft |
| Very Steep (Over 12/12) | 1.60x | 2,000 x 1.60 = 3,200 sq ft |
Find your roof’s total square footage.
Multiply by the correct slope multiplier.
Divide by 100 to get the number of squares.
Multiply by 3 (since 3 bundles = 1 square).
For a 2,000 sq ft roof with a 6/12 slope:
2,000 x 1.25 = 2,500 effective square feet
2,500 ÷ 100 = 25 squares
25 squares × 3 = 75 bundles needed
If your roof has complex designs, dormers, or valleys, increase your estimate by another 5-10% to cover extra waste.
This means roof slope definitely affects how many bundles you’ll need!
The price of a bundle depends on the type of shingle:
|
Shingle Type |
Price Per Bundle |
|---|---|
|
3-Tab Asphalt Shingles |
$30 – $40 |
|
Architectural Shingles |
$35 – $50 |
|
Heavy-Duty Shingles |
$40 – $60 |
For a 2,000 sq ft roof, expect to pay:
Installation costs, permits, and other materials like nails and underlayment can increase the final price.
Yes! Roofers recommend buying 10-15% extra shingles to cover waste from cuts and mistakes.
|
Roof Complexity |
Extra Needed |
|
Simple Roof |
5-10% |
|
Medium Complexity |
10-15% |
|
High Complexity |
15-20% |
Example:
Mixing brands isn’t a good idea because:
Stick to one brand and type for a uniform look! Some brands offer lifetime warranties, which can be voided if mixed with other brands.
The lifespan of shingles depends on material, quality, weather conditions, and maintenance. Different types of shingles have different durability levels, with some lasting as little as 20 years and others exceeding 50 years.
| Shingle Type | Lifespan | Maintenance Required | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Tab Asphalt Shingles | 20-30 years | Low to Moderate | Budget-friendly, mild climates |
| Architectural Shingles | 30-50 years | Moderate | Residential homes, better wind resistance |
| Luxury/Designer Shingles | 50+ years | Moderate to High | High-end homes, best durability |
| Metal Shingles | 40-70 years | Low | Extreme weather, fire resistance |
| Wood Shingles | 30-50 years | High (prone to rot, insects) | Rustic aesthetics, dry climates |
| Slate Shingles | 75-100+ years | Low to Moderate | Luxury homes, long-term investment |
Before purchasing shingles, always check:
It’s also a great idea to consult with a roofing professional to ensure you are getting the right number of shingles for your roof. This can save you from overbuying or running out of materials midway.
Now, you’re ready to buy shingles like a pro! Hope this guide helped answer How many square feet in a bundle of shingles?
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