In the realm of roofing, the term “square” serves as an industry-standard unit of measurement representing a 100 square foot area of roofing material. This unique terminology is used ubiquitously in the industry, serving to facilitate more efficient communication among roofers, contractors, suppliers, and clients.

In practical terms, using the “square” as a unit of measure helps in various ways. For instance, if a residential roof has a surface area of 2200 square feet, it would be denominated as “22 squares.” This denomination helps in streamlining the conversation and makes it easier to quickly understand the scale of the project at hand.

Roofing materials such as shingles, tiles, or metal sheets are often sold per square. This not only applies to the primary materials but also to underlayment and other necessary components that are integral to a roofing system. When a contractor refers to the cost per square, it means the total cost that encompasses all the materials needed to cover 100 square feet of the roof.

Utilizing “square” in roofing offers the added advantage of simplified calculations during the estimation and bidding process. It aids in determining the amount of materials required precisely, avoiding the confusion that might arise from using square feet. For example, if a package of roofing shingles covers 100 square feet, it is recognized as one “square” of shingles.

Moreover, when you are budgeting for a roofing project, contractors will compute the total number of squares necessary to complete the work, and then multiply this figure by the cost per square for the chosen roofing materials. This calculation results in a more transparent and straightforward quotation, providing an unambiguous breakdown of the material costs involved.

Furthermore, this terminology proves vital during insurance assessments and property valuations, where precision and clarity are of utmost importance. Professionals involved can easily interpret the specifications and requirements laid down, thereby promoting a smoother transaction process.

Contractors also tend to factor in an additional amount to cater for waste, which might vary based on the complexity of the roof design. More intricate designs with a lot of hips and valleys might require more material, thus increasing the number of squares needed.

In conclusion, understanding the term “square” in roofing is paramount for homeowners, contractors, and all other stakeholders in the roofing industry. It is a standardized method that fosters understanding, simplifies calculations, and ensures the fluidity of transactions, making the roofing process more efficient and comprehensible for everyone involved. It is a practice steeped in tradition and upheld for its utility and efficiency, proving its worth time and again in the roofing industry.

This post was written by Reggie Reed! Reggie is a state-certified roofing contractor and co-owner of Reggie Reed Roofing, the Best Roofers In Pinellas County . He is a 4th generation roofing contractor. RR Roofing offers a wide variety of roofing services for residential homes, apartment complexes, condos, commercial buildings, churches, and more. Reggie enjoys dedicating his spare time to helping underprivileged youth in his community and traveling with his family and friends.