What Is a Square in Roofing? Smart Tips to Plan Your Roof Replacement

September 2025

When was the last time you thought about how your roof is measured? Most of us don’t even think about it until it’s time for a roof replacement. If you live in Surrey or nearby neighborhoods, you’ve likely received quotes from roofing contractors that mention “squares.” But what does that even mean? What is a square in roofing and why should you care?

Here’s the truth: understanding this simple unit of measurement can save you money, help you read estimates with confidence, and avoid being overcharged. Knowing what a “square” means will help you plan better and make smarter choices for your home or commercial building.

What Is a Roofing Square?

A roofing “square” is just a unit of measurement. One square covers 100 square feet of roof area. That’s it.

Roofers use squares because it makes ordering materials, pricing jobs, and giving estimates easier. Instead of saying “your roof is 2,300 square feet,” they’ll say “it’s 23 squares.”

Think of it like buying tiles or flooring. You wouldn’t buy one plank at a time. You buy in bulk, measured in boxes or bundles. A square works the same way for roofing.

Roof Square Footage Calculator by Address

Ever wondered how big your roof really is? Instead of climbing up with a tape measure, try a roof square footage calculator by address. It uses satellite images to quickly estimate your roof’s size.

But remember, these calculators are just estimates. A roofing professional will measure the pitch, overhangs, valleys, and complexity of your roof to get the exact number.

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Free Roofing Calculator Square Feet

If you want to check rough costs yourself, you can try a free roofing calculator square feet tool. Just enter your home’s dimensions, roof pitch, and material type.

This helps you understand whether your contractor’s quote makes sense. It won’t replace a full inspection, but it gives you peace of mind before signing a contract.

What Does a Square Look Like in Roofing?

So, what is a square in roofing look like? Imagine a 10 ft. x 10 ft. section of roof. That’s one square.

Your total roof size is just the number of these squares put together. For example:

• 15 squares = 1,500 sq. ft. roof
• 30 squares = 3,000 sq. ft. roof
  
  

This makes it easy to compare sizes and costs, no matter the material.

How Many Bundles in a Roofing Square?

Here’s where it gets practical. How many bundles of shingles in a square? Usually, one square needs about three bundles of asphalt shingles.

But this can vary:

• Asphalt shingle → 3 bundles per square
• Metal roofing panels → measured differently
• Specialty shingles → may need more or fewer bundles

This is why it’s always good to ask your contractor how they count.

30 Square Roof Cost in Surrey

Let’s make it real. If you have a medium-sized home in Surrey with a 30 square roof, the cost will depend on material and labor:

*Costs vary based on roof complexity, pitch, and local labor rates.

Other factors that influence cost:

• Steeper pitch means more safety equipment and labor time.
• Complex designs with skylights, valleys, or chimneys add extra material and installation steps.
• Disposal of your old roof adds to the total estimate.
  
  

Pro Tip: Always get an on-site estimate from a local Surrey roofing contractor for an accurate quote.

Tips to Plan Your Roof Replacement in Surrey

• Don’t forget permits: Surrey building codes require proper permits for roof replacements.
• Check weather windows: Summer and early fall are often the best times for roof projects in British Columbia.
• Ask about warranties: A good contractor should offer both a manufacturer’s warranty on shingles and a workmanship warranty.
• Compare apples to apples: When you get quotes, make sure you’re comparing the same materials and number of squares.
  
  

FAQs About Roofing Squares in Surrey

Q: How can I measure my roof myself?
You can multiply length × width, then divide the total square footage by 100. For sloped roofs, always adjust for pitch.

Q: Can I use a drone or app to measure?
Yes, many homeowners use drone images or satellite tools. Still, a roofing contractor will do a more accurate job.

Q: Why don’t roofers just use square feet?
Because “squares” make ordering materials and labor easier. Think of it as the roofing industry’s shortcut.

Q: How much does a roofer charge per square in Surrey?
Costs vary, but asphalt shingle replacement often ranges between $350–$600 per square in Surrey, depending on materials and roof complexity.

Plan Smart, Roof Smart

So now you know what is a square in roofing, a simple 100 sq. ft. unit that makes estimating easier. But beyond numbers, this knowledge gives you confidence when planning your roof replacement in Surrey.

If your home is due for a new roof, don’t just accept a quote you don’t understand. Ask about the number of squares, material options, and labor costs. The right roofer will explain it all clearly.

At B-Cheema Roofing, we help Surrey homeowners and business owners plan smarter, save money, and get roofs built to last.

Ready for your roof replacement? Contact B-Cheema Roofing today for expert advice in Surrey.