A roofing square is 100 square feet. This is the standard way roofers measure roofs in the United States. When you hear a roofer say your roof is 26 squares, that means your roof is 2,600 square feet. The average U.S. roof size is 2,647 square feet or 26.47 squares, according to the National Association of Home Builders. Understanding roofing squares helps you know the true size of your roof and estimate costs. Roofing squares make it easy to compare prices from different contractors.
Why Do Roofers Use Squares?
Roofers use squares because it’s a fast, simple way to measure big roof areas. One square equals 100 square feet, so math is easy. If your roof is 50 squares, that is 5,000 square feet.
This old system has been used in construction for many years. It helps roofers give quotes quickly. When you know your roof size in squares, you can multiply by the cost per square to get a total price.
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How to Calculate Your Roof in Squares
To find your roof size in squares, measure the length and width of your roof. Multiply length times width to get total square feet. Then divide by 100.
Example: Your roof is 1,700 square feet. Divide 1,700 by 100. That equals 17 squares. Roofing installation costs range from $4 to $40 per square foot, according to RubyHome, which means your 1,700 sq. ft. roof could cost between $6,800 and $68,000 depending on materials.
Roofing Material Costs Per Square
Different roofing materials cost different amounts per square. Basic asphalt shingles are cheaper. Metal roofing or slate tiles cost more.
| 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 |
| Metal Roofing | $5.50, $17.05 | $550, $1,705 |
| Clay or Concrete Tiles | $11.00, $24.75 | $1,100, $2,475 |
Average Roof Replacement Cost
The average roof replacement cost is $9,526, according to RubyHome. Most homeowners spend between $5,868 and $13,217. Asphalt shingles dominate at nearly 80% of projects, according to industry data.
Your final cost depends on three things: roof size in squares, material type, and labor costs in your area. A 26-square roof with basic asphalt shingles will cost much less than a 26-square roof with slate tiles. Labor also changes the price. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, roofers earn a median wage of $50,030 per year, which affects your total bill.
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Work with a professional roof contractor to protect your property with quality roofing solutions.