How many bundles of shingles in a square

How many bundles of shingles in a square

The Standard: 3 Bundles per Square

Why 3 Bundles Make a Square

The most common answer you'll hear from a roofer is: “Three bundles of shingles make a square.” This is based on the industry standard for three-tab asphalt shingles, the most widely used and budget-friendly shingle type.

Each bundle typically covers around 33.3 square feet, so three of them together total approximately 100 square feet, or one roofing square. This makes ordering easy and predictable for homeowners and contractors alike.

This 3:1 ratio is used so consistently that it’s almost assumed. Many roofing calculators are based on this default.

Here’s a breakdown:

Shingle TypeCoverage per BundleBundles per Square3-Tab Asphalt~33.3 sq. ft.3 BundlesArchitectural~32-33 sq. ft.3-4 BundlesDesigner/ThickVariesOften 4+ Bundles

Exceptions to the Rule

Not all shingles play by the same rules. Some heavier, thicker, or specialty shingles require more than three bundles per square. For instance:

  • Architectural shingles, which are more durable and stylish, often need 4 bundles to cover a square.

  • Wood and slate shingles, being natural materials, have more irregularities, so coverage can vary.

  • Designer shingles or high-end products may be heavier and bulkier, leading to 4 or even 5 bundles per square.

This is why it’s crucial to read the manufacturer's specifications for your chosen shingle. Relying on the “3 bundles per square” rule for specialty products can lead to serious miscalculations.

Types of Shingles and Their Bundle Requirements

Asphalt Shingles

These are the most popular shingles in North America, thanks to their affordability and ease of installation. Most asphalt shingles are of the three-tab variety and adhere to the standard three bundles per square model.

They’re lightweight and uniform, making them easy to measure and install. Each bundle contains around 20 shingles and covers roughly 33.3 square feet.

If you're doing a straightforward roofing job, these are likely your best bet. But even within asphalt, there are subtypes that can affect your bundle count.

Architectural Shingles

Architectural shingles, also known as dimensional or laminate shingles, are a step up in durability and aesthetics. They’re thicker and have a layered construction that mimics wood shake or slate.

Because of their increased bulk, each bundle may cover less area—usually 25 to 33 square feet. This means you could need 3 to 4 bundles for every square of roofing.

Despite the higher bundle count, many homeowners opt for architectural shingles because they offer better wind resistance, a longer lifespan, and enhanced curb appeal.

Wood and Slate Shingles

When dealing with wood (like cedar) or slate shingles, the rules change dramatically. These materials are heavier, less uniform, and more prone to breakage. They’re also sold in different configurations that don’t always align neatly with asphalt standards.

For example:

  • Cedar shingles might require 5 bundles per square depending on the exposure (how much of the shingle is visible once installed).

  • Slate tiles, due to their weight and size, can have even more variability.

You must consult the product documentation or ask a professional roofer when estimating bundles for these materials. Guessing based on asphalt standards will leave you short.

Specialty Shingles

High-end shingles, designer series, or solar shingles often come with their own unique packaging and coverage. These aren’t mass-produced like asphalt shingles and often have more ornate profiles or additional functionality.

Some specialty shingles can require 4 to 5 bundles per square or more, depending on their thickness and design complexity. Always double-check specs when using anything outside of the standard offerings.

Calculating Your Roofing Needs

Measuring Roof Area Accurately

Before you can buy the right number of shingle bundles, you’ve got to measure your roof correctly. Sounds simple, right? But it’s more than just measuring the length and width of your house and multiplying.

Here’s the kicker: roofs aren't flat surfaces like a floor. They have pitch, ridges, valleys, and overhangs—which all impact the final area. If you miscalculate, even slightly, you could end up short on shingles (or worse, overspend by a mile).

To accurately measure your roof:

  1. Break your roof into rectangles or squares. Measure each section’s length and width in feet.

  2. Multiply length × width for each section to get the area.

  3. Add all the areas together to get the total square footage.

  4. Divide by 100 to get the number of squares.

For example:

  • A simple roof with a 40x25 ft section = 1,000 sq. ft.

  • 1,000 ÷ 100 = 10 squares

  • So, you’d need around 30 bundles of shingles (assuming standard 3-tab).

But that’s just the starting point. Let’s not forget waste and pitch...

Accounting for Waste

No roofing job is perfect. You’ll lose some shingles due to:

  • Cutting at edges

  • Fitting around chimneys, vents, and skylights

  • Mistakes or damage during installation

That’s why pros recommend adding 10-15% extra for waste. If you’ve got a complicated roof (multiple gables, dormers, or steep pitches), increase that to 15-20%.

So for a 10-square roof:

  • Add 10% waste → 10 × 0.10 = 1 extra square

  • Total = 11 squares → 33 bundles

Always buy a little extra. Running short mid-job can delay your project and cause mismatched colors if you buy more shingles from a different batch.

Roof Pitch and Complexity

Pitch is the angle or steepness of your roof. A higher pitch means more surface area, which equals more shingles.

  • A flat roof has a pitch of 0:12.

  • A standard slope is around 4:12 to 6:12.

  • Steep roofs can reach 12:12 or more.

A roof with a 6:12 pitch can have 10-15% more surface area than a flat roof of the same footprint. So again, you'll need to adjust your square footage calculation accordingly.

Use a pitch multiplier to calculate total area based on pitch. Here's a quick guide:

Roof PitchMultiplier3:121.034:121.066:121.128:121.2010:121.3012:121.42

So if your roof has a footprint of 1,000 sq. ft and a pitch of 6:12:

  • 1,000 × 1.12 = 1,120 sq. ft → 11.2 squares → 34 bundles (plus waste)

Buying the Right Amount of Shingles

Practical Tips for Shingle Buying

Buying shingles isn’t just about math—it’s also strategy. Here’s what smart homeowners and contractors do:

  • Buy from a reputable supplier. Don’t cut corners to save a few bucks.

  • Stick with one brand and color batch to avoid noticeable differences on the roof.

  • Ask for delivery to your roof (especially if you’re buying many bundles).

  • Keep extra bundles sealed and dry for repairs down the line.

And always compare prices. Big-box stores may have deals, but local suppliers often give better service and support.

How to Avoid Overbuying or Underbuying

Nobody wants to spend more than they have to—or worse, have to pause a job to get more shingles.

To hit the sweet spot:

  • Use a roofing calculator (many are free online).

  • Factor in pitch, waste, and valleys/ridges.

  • Consult with a pro roofer if your roof has multiple angles, chimneys, or odd shapes.

Also, keep in mind that some bundles are non-returnable once opened or exposed to moisture. It’s better to slightly underestimate and reorder than overbuy and be stuck with nonrefundable stock.

What to Do with Leftover Shingles

Leftover bundles aren’t trash—they’re future savings. Here’s what you can do:

  • Store them in a dry place for future repairs or additions.

  • Use them on outbuildings like sheds or garages.

  • Sell or give them away on local classifieds or marketplace groups.

If you’re planning to stay in your house for a while, keeping a bundle or two could save you major hassle down the line.

Additional Considerations

Costs Per Square and Per Bundle

Shingle pricing can vary wildly based on material, brand, and location. On average:

  • Standard asphalt: $90–$120 per square (so ~$30–$40 per bundle)

  • Architectural: $120–$160 per square

  • Designer/High-end: $200–$400 per square

  • Slate or Wood: $300+ per square

These prices don’t include underlayment, nails, flashing, or labor—just the shingles. If you're on a tight budget, go with a reliable asphalt option. If you're aiming for long-term investment, architectural shingles pay off over time.

Weight and Transportation of Bundles

Shingles are heavy. Each bundle can weigh 60 to 80 pounds, and a square of shingles weighs in at 180 to 240 pounds. That adds up fast.

Transporting them in a regular car? Not a good idea. Use:

  • A pickup truck or trailer

  • Delivery service (often offered free with large orders)

  • Roof-top crane delivery for large or multi-story homes

Avoid stacking them too high on your roof too early—excess weight can damage decking before installation.

Environmental and Brand Variations

Not all shingles are created equal. Some brands use recycled content, some offer algae resistance, and others are Energy Star rated.

Look for features like:

  • Cool roof technology to reflect sunlight

  • Lifetime warranties

  • Impact resistance (especially in hail-prone areas)

  • Wind resistance ratings

Top brands include:

  • GAF

  • CertainTeed

  • Owens Corning

  • TAMKO

  • IKO

Always check reviews, warranties, and certifications before buying.