How Many Square Feet Does a Pack of Shingles Cover : Understanding Shingle Coverage for Your Roofing Project

For homeowners, contractors, or anyone tackling a DIY roofing project, understanding how much area a pack (often called a "bundle") of shingles covers is crucial for accurate planning and budgeting. Typically, one bundle of asphalt shingles covers about 33.3 square feet. Since asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in North America, this measurement generally applies to standard 3-tab shingles. However, factors like shingle type (architectural shingles may differ slightly), waste from cutting, and roof complexity can affect the total material required.

Tips 1:

As a designer, I always recommend factoring in at least 10% extra shingles to account for waste, especially if your roof has a lot of valleys, dormers, or non-traditional shapes. This approach is similar to how we allocate extra materials in 3D floor planner projects for seamless, stress-free results.

FAQ

Q: How many square feet does a bundle of shingles cover?

A: One bundle of standard 3-tab asphalt shingles typically covers 33.3 square feet.

Q: How many bundles are in a “square” of shingles?

A: A “square” is a roofing term for 100 square feet. Three bundles usually make up one square.

Q: Do architectural shingles cover the same area per bundle as 3-tabs?

A: Architectural shingles may vary slightly, but most bundles cover close to 33.3 square feet. Always check the packaging for specifics.

Q: How do I calculate how many bundles I need?

A: Measure your roof's total square footage, divide by 100 for the number of “squares,” then multiply by 3 (bundles per square). Add extra for waste.

Q: Should I buy extra shingles?

A: Yes. Buying 10% extra is a safe practice to cover waste, repairs, and future matching needs.