So you’ve decided it’s time to give your roof a makeover with some fresh new shingles. But before you can start picking out colors and styles, you need to figure out how much material you’ll actually need. Don’t worry, measuring your roof for shingles may seem daunting, but with the right guidance, you’ll be a pro in no time! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step by step, so grab your tape measure and let’s get started!
Inside this blog:
- 6 critical steps to effectively measuring your roof before shingle installment
- The 4 benefits of getting correct measurements
Keep reading so you can become an expert on how to correctly measure your roof to ensure that your shingle installation goes off without a hitch!
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Before you can begin measuring your roof, make sure you have all the necessary tools on hand. You’ll need a sturdy ladder, a tape measure (preferably a long one), a pencil or marker, and a calculator. If you’re not comfortable climbing on the roof yourself, consider hiring a professional roofing contractor to assist you. Having the right tools ensures a safe and accurate measurement process.
Step 2: Determine Roof Pitch
Roof pitch (also called the roof slope) refers to the steepness of your roof and plays a crucial role in calculating the amount of shingles you’ll need. Use a pitch gauge or an online calculator to determine your roof’s pitch.
Most homes have a standard pitch between 4/12 and 9/12, but it’s essential to get an accurate measurement to ensure you order the correct amount of shingles. Understanding your roof’s pitch helps you make informed decisions when purchasing materials.
Step 3: Measure Roof Area
Next, it’s time to measure the area of your roof. Start by measuring the roof length and width of each section and then multiply the two measurements together to get the square footage. Add up the square footage of all sections to get the total area of your roof. Accurately measuring the roof area ensures you have the right amount of materials for complete coverage.
Step 4: Account for Waste
When ordering shingles, it’s essential to account for waste due to cutting and trimming. As a general rule of thumb, add an extra 10% to 15% to your total square footage to accommodate for waste. This ensures you’ll have enough material to complete the job without running short. Accounting for waste prevents delays and ensures a seamless installation process.
Step 5: Choose Shingle Bundle Size
Shingles are typically sold in bundles, with each bundle covering a certain amount of square footage. Check the packaging or consult with your roofing supplier to determine how many square feet are covered per bundle.
Divide your total square footage by the square footage per bundle to determine how many bundles you’ll need. Choosing the right bundle size ensures you have the correct quantity of shingles for your project.
Step 6: Consider Additional Roofing Materials
In addition to shingles, don’t forget to factor in other materials you’ll need for the installation, such as underlayment, flashing, and nails. These materials are essential for ensuring a proper and secure installation, so be sure to include them in your calculations. Considering additional materials guarantees you have everything necessary for a successful roofing project.
4 Benefits of Correctly Measuring Your Roof
Trust us, taking the time to measure accurately before installing roof shingles can make all the difference in the world. Here are four awesome benefits of getting those roofing measurements right!
1. Avoid Wasting Money
Let’s face it—shingles don’t come cheap. By measuring your roof accurately, you can make sure you’re buying just the right amount of shingles and avoid overspending on materials you don’t need. Also, when you know exactly how much you need, you can shop around for the best deals and save even more cash!
2. Prevent Running Out of Materials
There’s nothing worse than getting halfway through a roofing project and realizing you’re short on shingles. By measuring your roof correctly upfront, you can ensure you have enough materials to get the job done without any unexpected trips to the store.
Say goodbye to last-minute runs for more shingles and hello to a smooth-sailing roofing project!
3. Achieve a Professional Finish
Proper measurements mean precise cuts and a snug fit for your shingles, resulting in a polished and professional-looking finish. No more awkward gaps or uneven lines—just a sleek and stylish roof that’s sure to turn heads in the neighborhood. You’ll feel like a roofing pro in no time!
4. Ensure Long-Term Durability
When you install shingles on a correctly measured roof, you’re setting yourself up for long-term success. A snug fit means better protection against the elements, reducing the risk of leaks, drafts, and other pesky problems down the road.
Plus, a well-installed roof can last for decades with proper maintenance, giving you peace of mind for years to come.
You’re Ready to Roof!
And there you have it—measuring your roof for shingles doesn’t have to be a headache! By following these six simple steps, you’ll be well-equipped to determine exactly how much material you need for your roofing project. So grab your tape measure, climb up on that roof (safely, of course), and get ready to give your home a fresh new look with some stylish new shingles.
Contact our friendly team members at Dreamworx today to get started on your next project. We’re excited to work with you and learn about your needs and preferences when it comes to your home’s exterior. For top-notch craftsmanship and a customer-centric approach, get in touch with us today!
