Quick Answer
Shingle pricing explained -- what a square is, material costs by grade, and the total cost per square installed.
Key Points
- One roofing square = 100 square feet of roof surface
- Standard architectural shingles: $80-$150/square material only
- Installed cost: $350-$600/square for standard architectural shingles
- Pitch, complexity, and penetrations drive installed cost above material cost
- Premium impact-resistant shingles cost $200-$350/square material only
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a roofing square?
A roofing square is 100 square feet of roof surface. Shingles are sold by the square (or by the bundle -- typically 3 bundles per square for standard architectural shingles). When contractors quote roofing projects, they measure and price by the square. A 2,000 sq ft home may have 20-28 roofing squares depending on pitch, overhang, and complexity.
How much does a square of architectural shingles cost?
Material-only cost for standard architectural (dimensional) shingles: $80-$150 per square for entry-level products; $120-$200 per square for mid-grade; $200-$350 per square for premium impact-resistant or designer shingles. Installed cost (materials plus labor plus disposal plus accessories) runs $350-$600 per square for standard architectural shingles in most markets.
What affects the installed cost per square?
Installed cost per square varies based on: roof pitch (steeper = more difficult = higher labor cost), number of penetrations and valleys (more flashing work), number of existing layers being torn off, regional labor rates, shingle grade, and disposal costs. A simple low-slope gable roof costs significantly less per square than a complex steep hip roof with multiple dormers and skylights.