Calculating Square Shingles for a 1300 ft House: How to Determine the Number of Shingles Needed for Your Home

When calculating the number of square shingles needed for a 1300 ft house, it's important to clarify whether you mean 1300 square feet of interior space, or the roofing area. Roofing measurements are done in “squares,” where one square covers 100 square feet. To estimate the number of shingles, you’ll first need to determine the total area of the roof, not the interior.

Assuming your 1300 ft house is a single-story rectangle, we'll approximate the roofing area. Most homes have a roof area that's about 1.5 times the interior square footage, factoring in overhangs and the pitch of the roof. For 1300 sq ft of living space, that’s roughly 1950 sq ft of roof surface (1300 x 1.5).

Next, divide the total roofing area by 100 to convert to squares: 1950 ÷ 100 = 19.5 squares. Since shingles are sold per bundle or square, always round up to ensure full coverage and material for waste, cuts, and overlaps. So, you’d need about 20 squares of shingles to cover a 1300 square foot house, accounting for average roof pitch and style.

Of course, roofing complexity (hip vs. gable roofs), extra architectural details, or steeper pitches can affect material needs. Precise calculation requires exact roof measurements, but for initial planning, this guideline works well.

As a designer, I always recommend considering the visual impact of your shingle selection. The color, texture, and pattern of your shingles significantly affect curb appeal. Before making a purchase, it can be helpful to use a home designer tool to visualize different shingle options on your home's exterior with true-to-scale accuracy.

Tips 1:

- Always purchase 10-15% extra shingles to account for waste and repairs.

- If your roof is unusually steep or complex, get a precise measurement or consult a roofing professional.

- Match your shingle choice with your home’s architectural style for a cohesive look.

- Consider weather resistance and warranty for long-lasting performance.

- Use online design tools to preview your chosen shingle color with other exterior elements like siding and trim.

FAQ

Q: What is a roofing "square"?

A: A roofing square is a standard 100 square foot area used to simplify the measurement and purchase of roofing materials.

Q: How do I measure my roof if it’s irregularly shaped?

A: Break the roof into sections (rectangles, triangles), calculate each area, and add them up for the total roof area.

Q: How many bundles of shingles do I need per square?

A: Most standard three-tab shingles require three bundles per square, but always check manufacturer specs.

Q: Can I use my home’s square footage for roofing calculations?

A: Not directly; you must use the actual surface area of the roof, which is typically larger due to pitch and overhangs.

Q: Should I install shingles myself or hire a professional?

A: For safety and durability, it’s best to hire a professional unless you have roofing experience. Professional installation often comes with warranties that DIY jobs do not.