If you are in the process of replacing your roof or filing a roofing claim, you almost definitely have heard your contractor mention the term “square.”
This begs the question, “what are they talking about?”
Most of our clients ask, are roofing squares and my home’s square footage the same? The answer is: nope!
One roofing square, or square of roofing shingles, is the amount of material needed to cover 100 square feet of roof area. The term is used by contractors, manufacturers, and suppliers as shorthand to describe a roof’s size.
For example, a roof that measures 2,000 square feet would be 20 squares.
(2,000 sq. ft. roof/100 sq. ft. per square = 20 squares)
Homes that have the same square footage can have drastically different roofing sizes. For example, a roof with a higher pitch (steeper) will use more roofing squares than one with a lower pitch.
Why Is Knowing The Term Roofing Squares Even Important?
So now that you have an understanding of what a roof square is, why is this even important?
If you’re looking at an itemized invoice for a roof replacement, it’s helpful to know some roofing terminology that will almost certainly be on there.
The most important thing that a homeowner can do is to be as informed as possible and make the best possible decision that they can. This can mean the difference between a great product at the agreed upon price (whether a cash bid or an insurance claim) and a poor quality product on what is most people’s most expensive asset, their home.
In short, learn what you can, not only about the products, but about the terminology, the process, and your contractor. Make sure that their reputation holds up and that they understand the weight of their responsibility in taking care of your home and your family. At Striker, this is our top priority. If you have any roofing questions, feel free to reach out to us, we’d love to help!
