A roofing square is 100 square feet. This is the standard way roofers measure roof size in the United States. One square equals 10 feet by 10 feet. Most homes have roofs that are 20 to 30 squares. The average U.S. roof size is 2,647 square feet or 26.47 squares, according to the National Association of Home Builders.
Why Do Roofers Use Squares?
Roofers use squares to make math easier. Instead of saying a roof is 2,647 square feet, they say it is 26.47 squares. This is faster and less confusing when talking about price and materials.
Squares also help roofers order the right amount of shingles. Asphalt shingles are sold by the square. If you need 25 squares, you order 25 bundles of shingles that cover 100 square feet each.
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How Do You Calculate Roof Squares?
To find your roof squares, measure the total square feet of your roof. Then divide by 100. For example, if your roof is 2,000 square feet, you have 20 squares.
You can also use the formula: Roof Size in Squares = Total Square Feet ÷ 100.
What Do Roof Squares Cost?
The cost per square depends on your roofing material. According to RubyHome, basic asphalt shingles cost $4.25 to $4.95 per square foot, or $425 to $495 per square. Architectural asphalt shingles cost $4.50 to $8.25 per square foot, or $450 to $825 per square.
Metal roofing costs more. Standing seam metal panels cost $10 to $17.05 per square foot, or $1,000 to $1,705 per square. For a 1,700 square foot roof (17 squares), asphalt costs about $7,225 to $8,415. Metal costs about $17,000 to $28,985.
| Material Type | Cost Per Square Foot | Cost Per Square (100 sq ft) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Asphalt Shingles | $4.25 – $4.95 | $425 – $495 |
| Architectural Asphalt | $4.50 – $8.25 | $450 – $825 |
| Standing Seam Metal | $10.00 – $17.05 | $1,000 – $1,705 |
| Corrugated Metal | $5.50 – $11.50 | $550 – $1,150 |
How Long Does One Square Last?
How long your roof lasts depends on the material. According to RubyHome, asphalt architectural shingles last about 30 years. Metal roofing lasts 40 to 80 years. Slate tiles last 60 to 150 years.
The average roof replacement happens when a roof is just over 19 years old, according to industry data. Leaking and storm damage cause 33 percent of replacements each. About 25 percent of homeowners replace roofs when they expect failure soon.