What is a roofing square?
A roofing square is 100 square feet of roof area, the standard measurement unit contractors use to calculate shingle quantities and material costs for estimates and bids.
The roofing square is the industry standard for measuring roof area. One square equals exactly 100 square feet. When a roofer measures your roof and tells you it is 20 squares, that means the total coverage is 2,000 square feet. This unit applies to all roof types and materials, from asphalt shingles to metal panels to tile.
Roofers use the square to calculate how much material they need and to price their work. Shingles and other roofing products are bundled and sold in quantities designed to cover one or more squares. A contractor will measure your roof, determine the total square footage, divide by 100, and use that figure to estimate labor costs and material orders. This standardization makes it easy for homeowners to compare quotes from different roofing contractors in Georgia and understand what they are being charged for.
If you are getting estimates for a new roof or repairs, expect contractors to break down their proposals in squares. This number drives the entire bid, so understanding it helps you ask better questions about what your project actually covers.