Shingle Calculator
Calculate how many bundles of asphalt shingles you need. Enter your roof footprint and pitch — we'll factor in the slope multiplier and standard 10% waste.
How Many Bundles of Shingles Do I Need?
Shingles are sold in bundles. Three bundles cover one "square" — 100 square feet of finished roof. For a 1,200 sq ft roof, you need 12 squares, or 36 bundles. Add 10% for waste and you're at roughly 40 bundles.
What Is a Roofing Square?
A "square" is the roofing industry's unit of measure — 100 square feet of roof surface. If your roof is 1,500 sq ft, you have 15 squares. This is how contractors order materials and how roofers quote prices.
Why You Need a Waste Factor
You will always need extra shingles for:
- Hip and ridge caps (cut from shingle bundles)
- Valley cuts (angled cuts waste material)
- Starter strips along eaves and rakes
- Damage during installation
- Future repairs
10% is standard. Complex roofs with multiple hips, valleys, and dormers need 15%.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many bundles for a 1,500 sq ft roof?
A 1,500 sq ft roof requires 15 squares, which equals 45 bundles. With 10% waste, order 50 bundles.
How much does 1 square of shingles cost?
Standard 3-tab shingles cost $90–$120 per square (3 bundles). Architectural shingles cost $120–$180 per square. Premium designer shingles cost $250+ per square.
How much does a new roof cost?
Installed cost is $4–$8 per square foot for asphalt shingles, or $400–$800 per square. A 1,500 sq ft roof typically costs $6,000–$12,000 fully installed.