How to Measure a Roof for Shingles (7 Step Homeowner’s Guide)

If you’re wondering how to measure a roof for shingles, you’re in the right place. At Trust Roofing, we use advanced tools and professional know-how to ensure every measurement is precise, helping our customers:

• Save money by ordering exactly the right amount of materials
• Avoid costly delays with streamlined, remote-friendly estimating
• Ensure long-lasting performance with tailor-made roofing solutions

Whether you’re a homeowner trying to understand the process or someone considering a new roof installation, this guide will walk you through the essential steps and show you why Trust Roofing leads with accuracy and integrity.

⭐️ Trust Roofing’s Roof Measurement Process

EagleView Technology: Our Primary Tool

At Trust Roofing, we primarily use EagleView aerial reports to obtain exact measurements of your roof. This cutting-edge tool provides data on:

• Total square footage
• Roof pitch
• Ridge, rake, hip, and valley lengths
• Individual roof facets

By using satellite imagery, we generate remote estimates quickly and efficiently, saving you time and enabling rapid planning and materials ordering.

Manual Measurement as a Reliable Backup

In cases where trees, shadows, or building obstructions block satellite imagery, we switch to manual methods:

• Using tape measures or rolling distance measurers
• Calculating square footage for simple roof structures
• Applying geometric formulas (triangles, slopes, etc.) for complex designs

Determining Roof Pitch

Pitch directly affects how much roofing material is needed. Our team measures pitch using a mobile app or pitch gauge, ensuring all materials are slope-adjusted for accuracy.

Key Feature Documentation

During in-person inspections, our experts document:

• Skylights
• Vents and drains
• Flashing points
• Any unique roof penetrations or structures

These features impact material needs and installation planning, so we include them in every detailed report.

Photo and Safety Protocols

Trust Roofing prioritizes safety and transparency:

• OSHA-compliant procedures: Our crews follow strict safety rules with fall protection and PPE.
• Photo documentation: Used for internal accuracy, insurance purposes, and customer clarity.

Our Hybrid Measurement Approach

By blending satellite technology with hands-on fieldwork, Trust Roofing delivers:

• Fast, remote-friendly estimates
• On-site validation when needed
• Unparalleled measurement precision for roofs of all types

🏠 Understanding Roof Types (and How They Affect Measurement) Steps for Roof Measurement

Gable Roof

Two sloping sides that form a ridge at the top. Easy to measure with rectangular geometry—EagleView handles these well.

Hip Roof

With four sloping sides, hip roofs require more complex calculations. EagleView detects and outlines these sections, or we break them down into triangles for manual measurement.

Mansard Roof

Featuring double slopes on each side, these are measured in segments, including upper flats and lower steeps. Trust Roofing adjusts for these during either digital or manual calculations.

Gambrel Roof

Like barn roofs, gambrel roofs have two different pitches on each side. We isolate each slope for accurate readings and material planning.

Complex Roofs

For homes with peaks, valleys, and irregular shapes, our combination of aerial data and manual verification ensures nothing is missed.

📐 How to Measure a Roof for Shingles (Homeowner’s Insight)

While Trust Roofing takes care of measurements for our clients, here’s a step-by-step guide to the process. This will help you understand the value behind our precision.

1. Measure the Base of the House

Walk the perimeter and record the length and width of the home. This creates a foundation for estimating roof area.

2. Break Down Roof Sections

Identify major shapes—rectangles, triangles, and irregular areas. Grouping sections by shape makes area calculation easier.

3. Calculate Pitch

Use a level and ruler:

• Place the level on the roof
• Measure 12 inches horizontally
• Measure the rise vertically from the surface
• Your pitch is rise over run (e.g., 6/12)

4. Measure Each Section

Use formulas:

• Rectangles = length x width
• Triangles = (base x height) / 2
• Irregular shapes = break into parts and sum them

5. Adjust for Pitch

Multiply the base area by a pitch factor based on slope. For example, a 6/12 pitch typically multiplies base area by ~1.12.

6. Add a Waste Factor

Expect 10–15% material waste for cuts, starter shingles, and error margins.

7. Calculate Shingle Needs

One roofing square = 100 sq ft. Shingles usually come in 3 bundles per square.

• Total area = 1,900 sq ft (example)
• 1,900 / 100 = 19 squares
• 19 x 3 = 57 bundles

✅ Popular Shingle Types (Asphalt Focus)

• 3-Tab Asphalt Shingles: Economical and lightweight, they provide basic protection with a flat, uniform look.
• Architectural Shingles: More durable and dimensional, these add curb appeal and last longer—ideal for Florida’s demanding weather.
• Impact-Resistant Shingles: Engineered for storm-prone areas, they resist hail and flying debris. Trust Roofing recommends these in high-wind zones.

☀️ Florida Roofing Considerations

• Wind Resistance: In Florida, roofing materials must meet strict codes. We only install shingles rated for high wind uplift and severe weather.
• UV & Heat Resistance: Prolonged sun exposure can break down inferior materials. Trust Roofing installs products with superior UV resistance and ventilation systems that reduce attic heat.
• Moisture and Mold Prevention: Florida humidity requires moisture-wicking underlayment and proper attic ventilation.

💡 Roofing Tips From the Pros

Double-Check Measurements

At Trust Roofing, we believe accuracy is crucial, which is why we always cross-verify digital data with thorough physical inspections. This ensures we never under-order or over-order materials, saving both time and money while preventing unnecessary waste. Double-checking measurements is a key step in delivering quality results.

Account for All Features

Roofing projects involve more than just flat surfaces. It’s essential to account for all structural features such as skylights, chimneys, vents, and flashing zones. These elements impact not only the amount of materials required but also the time and labor needed for the project. Skipping these areas during planning could lead to costly mistakes or delays, so we make sure to factor them into every calculation.

Leave the Math to the Experts

While apps and calculators can provide estimates, they are no match for the expertise of seasoned professionals. At Trust Roofing, our team has years of hands-on experience, ensuring every calculation is precise. Let the experts handle the math so you can have peace of mind knowing your project is in the best hands possible.

👍 Why Trust Roofing is the Team You Can Count On

At Trust Roofing, we combine modern tools with hands-on expertise to ensure every roof is measured and installed to perfection. Our process eliminates guesswork and delivers roofs that stand the test of time, especially in challenging climates like Florida.

Ready to start your roofing project? Contact Trust Roofing today and see the difference a truly professional approach makes!