A bundle of shingles typically covers about 33.3 sq. ft., and it takes 3 bundles to cover 100 sq. ft. (1 roofing square). 3-tab bundles have 26–29 shingles, architectural have 20–24, and designer types have even fewer. Always calculate total area, adjust for pitch and waste, then round up to get total bundles needed.
What is a bundle of shingles?
Definition of a roofing shingle bundle
A bundle of shingles is a packaged unit used for roofing that contains a specific number of shingles designed to cover a portion of roof area. In roofing terms:
- 1 square = 100 square feet of roof area
- 3 bundles = 1 roofing square (in most cases)
That means one bundle typically covers about 33.3 square feet of roofing. However, the number of shingles per bundle varies based on type, size, and manufacturer.
Why shingles are packaged in bundles
Shingles are packaged in bundles for easier handling, transport, and installation. A full square can weigh 200–300 lbs, so breaking it into three bundles keeps individual packages manageable.
In most installations:
- 3-tab shingles are thinner and more numerous per bundle
- Architectural shingles are thicker and fewer per bundle
- Designer shingles are heavy and offer less coverage per unit
How many shingles are in a bundle?
Standard quantities by shingle type
The actual shingle count per bundle depends on the material and type:
- 3-tab shingles: 26–29 shingles per bundle
- Architectural shingles: 20–24 shingles per bundle
- Designer shingles: often 16–22 shingles per bundle
Regardless of count, each bundle typically covers 33.3 sq. ft., so it always takes three bundles to cover one square.
Coverage per bundle
Even though different shingle types vary in number, they are designed to cover the same surface area.
- One bundle = ~33.3 sq. ft.
- Three bundles = ~100 sq. ft. (1 square)
This standard helps roofers estimate material quickly, even across different brands.
How to measure a roof for shingles
Calculating roof area
To determine how many bundles you’ll need:
- Measure the length and width of each roof section
- Multiply them to find square footage
- Add all sections together
Example:
Length: 20 ft × Width: 15 ft = 300 sq. ft. per section
Accounting for roof pitch
Roofs aren’t flat. You must adjust measurements for slope using a pitch multiplier.
| Pitch | Multiplier |
| 4:12 | 1.06 |
| 6:12 | 1.12 |
| 8:12 | 1.20 |
| 10:12 | 1.30 |
Example:
Flat area = 1,500 sq. ft.
Pitch = 6:12 → Multiply by 1.12
Actual roof area = 1,680 sq. ft.
Including a waste factor
Waste accounts for:
- Cuts for ridges, hips, and valleys
- Starter courses
- Human error
Add 10–15% to your total:
- Simple roofs: 10%
- Complex roofs: 15–20%
Example:
1,680 sq. ft. × 1.10 = 1,848 sq. ft. to plan for
Example shingle calculation for a 1,200 sq. ft. roof
Step-by-step calculation
- Adjust for pitch
1,200 sq. ft. × 1.12 (for 6:12 pitch) = 1,344 sq. ft. - Add 10% waste
1,344 × 1.10 = 1,478.4 sq. ft. - Convert to roofing squares
1,478.4 ÷ 100 = 14.78 squares - Convert to bundles
14.78 × 3 = 44.34 bundles
Round up → 45 bundles
You’ll need about 45 bundles for a 1,200 sq. ft. roof with moderate pitch and basic geometry.
Factors that affect how many bundles you need
Shingle type and brand
- 3-tab = more shingles per bundle
- Architectural = fewer per bundle
- Designer = even fewer, depending on profile
Always check product specs before ordering.
Roof complexity and shape
- Simple gable roof = less waste
- Hipped or multi-facet roof = higher waste, more bundles
- Curved or steep roofs may require custom cuts and more overlap
Skylights, chimneys, and valleys
- Require more trimming and flashing
- Typically adds extra 1–2 bundles depending on quantity and layout
For advanced roof plans, consult a pro at roof installation or roof inspections.
FAQs about shingles per bundle
How many shingles are in a bundle of roofing shingles?
3-tab shingles: 26–29 per bundle
Architectural shingles: 20–24 per bundle
How much area does one bundle of shingles cover?
Each bundle covers about 33.3 square feet. Three bundles equal 1 square (100 sq. ft.)
How heavy is a shingle bundle?
- 3-tab: 50–65 lbs
- Architectural: 65–80 lbs
- Designer: 80–100+ lbs
Can I return unused bundles?
Yes as long as they’re unopened and clean, most suppliers accept returns within 30–90 days.
Do different brands use the same shingle count per bundle?
No. For example:
- CertainTeed: 21–24 architectural shingles per bundle
- IKO: 26–29 per bundle (3-tab)
Check labels for coverage per bundle before purchase.
Learn more in this detailed breakdown by Bill Ragan Roofing for expert-backed insights.
