If you’re planning a roofing project, one of the most common questions homeowners and contractors ask is “How Much Does a Square of Shingles Weigh”. Understanding the weight is crucial for calculating structural support, ordering the right materials, and ensuring safe installation. In this guide, we’ll break down the factors that affect shingle weight, provide average weight estimates, and offer practical tips to make your roofing project smoother and more efficient.
What Is a Roofing Square?
In roofing, a square is a unit of measurement equal to 100 square feet of roofing coverage. It’s used to estimate how many shingles you’ll need, how much they’ll weigh, and how much work will be involved in installation or removal.
Shingles Weight Calculator
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How Much Does a Square of Shingles Weigh?
The weight of a roofing square varies widely depending on the type and material of shingles you choose. Here’s how the most common roofing materials compare:
Why Shingle Weight Matters
1. Structural Load
Every roof deck and home frame is engineered to support a certain dead load (weight of materials). Choosing heavier shingles like slate or premium architectural styles may require a structural evaluation to ensure safety.
2. Installation Logistics
Heavier shingles require more effort to hoist and install. For roofers, this translates into more labor and sometimes more time.
3. Removal and Waste
If you’re replacing a roof, knowing the weight of old shingles helps estimate removal costs and dumpster size, especially since three bundles equal one square of waste.
How Climate Affects Weight
Shingle weight isn’t static—it changes dramatically based on environmental conditions:
Hot, Dry Climates (Southwest, Desert Regions)
- Effect: Shingles lose 5-10% weight over time due to volatile compound evaporation
- UV Degradation: Breaks down asphalt binders, making shingles brittle and lighter
- Timeline: Noticeable after 10-15 years
Humid, Wet Climates (Southeast, Pacific Northwest)
- Effect: Shingles gain 15-30% weight from moisture absorption
- Moss/Algae Growth: Adds 5-15 lbs per square foot in severe cases
- Mold: Organic shingles absorb more water than fiberglass
- Timeline: Begins within 5 years
Cold Climates (Northern States, Mountains)
- Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Can increase weight by 20-40% when ice-laden
- Snow Load: Temporarily adds 10-60 lbs per square foot (not shingle weight, but critical for disposal planning)
- Ice Dams: Trapped water adds significant weight
Coastal Climates
- Salt Exposure: Accelerates granule loss, reducing weight by 5-8%
- High Humidity: Similar to humid climates, but with additional corrosion
- Wind Damage: Creates debris (broken tabs) that’s lighter per piece
Moisture Absorption Weights
Climate significantly impacts roof load. Use the table below to see how shingle weight increases based on water saturation levels.
| Shingle Type | Dry (Base) | Damp (+15%) | Wet (+30%) | Saturated (+40%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Tab Asphalt | 240 lbs | 276 lbs | 312 lbs | 336 lbs |
| Architectural | 420 lbs | 483 lbs | 546 lbs | 588 lbs |
| Wood Shakes | 350 lbs | 403 lbs | 455 lbs | 490 lbs |
Manufacturer Weight Database
Search the 2025 weights for industry-leading brands based on technical data sheets.
| Manufacturer | Type | Bundle | Square | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GAF | Architectural | 74 lbs | 240 lbs | Lifetime |
| GAF | 3-Tab | 62 lbs | 195 lbs | 25 Years |
| CertainTeed | Architectural | 78 lbs | 250 lbs | Lifetime |
| CertainTeed | 3-Tab | 60 lbs | 185 lbs | 25 Years |
| Owens Corning | Architectural | 75 lbs | 245 lbs | Lifetime |
| Owens Corning | 3-Tab | 65 lbs | 200 lbs | 30 Years |
| IKO | Architectural | 76 lbs | 235 lbs | Lifetime |
| IKO | 3-Tab | 58 lbs | 180 lbs | 25 Years |
| TAMKO | Architectural | 72 lbs | 230 lbs | Lifetime |
| Atlas | Architectural | 73 lbs | 240 lbs | Lifetime |
| Malarkey | Luxury | 82 lbs | 270 lbs | Lifetime |
| GAF | Designer | 85 lbs | 320 lbs | Lifetime |
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much a square of best shingles weighs helps you make better choices for your roofing project, from budgeting and structural planning to installation and cleanup. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for precise numbers, as weight can vary by brand and style.
FAQs
1. How much does a bundle of roofing shingles weigh?
Most bundles of roofing shingles weigh 50–80 pounds, depending on the shingle type, thickness, and manufacturer.
2. How much does a package of shingles weigh?
A package (bundle) of shingles usually weighs 45–90 pounds, with architectural shingles weighing more than 3-tab shingles.
3. How much does a bundle of 3 tab shingles weigh?
A bundle of 3-tab shingles typically weighs 45–65 pounds, making them lighter and easier to handle than architectural shingles.
4. How much does a bundle of asphalt shingles weigh?
A bundle of asphalt shingles generally weighs 50–80 pounds, depending on whether they are 3-tab or architectural style.
5. How much do shingles weigh per square?
Shingles weigh 150–300+ pounds per square (100 sq ft), with architectural shingles weighing more than standard 3-tab shingles.
