How do I estimate my roof plan?

Estimating your roof plan can be arduous unless approached strategically. So, How do I estimate my roof plan? – This guide will lead you through the steps on how best to approach that estimate whether planning on new construction or just needing to assess existing ones.

1. Know the Design of the Roof

Before you estimate your roof plan, it is quite important to understand its design. The style of your roof will directly affect the way you estimate how to set the materials and labor needed.

Identify the Roof Type

• Gable Roof: Triangular with two sloping sides.
• Hip Roof: Sloped on all sides
• Flat Roof: Level in the horizontal direction, possibly with a very slight slope

Knowing the roof type will help you to make an even more accurate calculation of the surface area.

2. Measure the Roof Area

Now, measure your roof area. You will probably require this as a starting point when estimating the required material, such as shingles, tiles, or metal panels

Tools You Will Require

• Tape Measure (if available)
• Ladder (for access)
• Roofing calculator (optional)

Measure the Length and Width

Determine the area by measuring the length and width of your roof. For a gable or flat roof, you multiply the length by the width. For a more complex roof, just section it out and measure it.

3. Determine Your Roof Pitch

You will also want to know the quantity of material needed, which varies based on roof pitch or slope. There are many methods to measure the roof’s angle, though most involve ratios of rise over run (vertical over horizontal). The higher the number, the steeper the slope and the greater the quantity of materials.

How to Measure Roof Pitch

Let’s use a level or pitch gauge to determine the roof pitch. A 4:12 pitch is the rise for every 12 inches of horizontal distance. A higher pitch, such as 6:12, means more roofing material will be required.

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4. Calculate Roofing Materials

Roofing Shingles or Tiles

The manufacturer provides you with the coverage for shingles. For example, for one bundle, it covers 33 square feet. Multiply your roof area by coverage per bundle to know how many bundles of shingles you will need.

Other Materials

If you are using other materials, say metal panels, then you might follow a different method to calculate the materials. Again, be sure to go by what the manufacturer has stipulated regarding the specifics of the level of coverage.

5. Account for Waste and Overlaps

When making material estimates, the most practical solution is to include waste and overlaps. Again, it is usually recommended that you add 10% to your estimate because of these conditions. You do not run out during installation.

Example of Waste Calculation

You have a roof area of 1,500 square feet. Add 10% waste: 1,500 x 0.10 = 150 extra square feet. So, in total, you are going to estimate 1,650 square feet.

6. Labor Costs Must Be Incorporated

In addition to cost, consider labor in your estimate. Labor varies with the complexity of the roof, materials, and your locality.

Averaged Labor Costs

Labor can range from $1.50 to $3.00 per square foot depending on the type of roof and the expertise of the contractor.

7. Total Budget

Finally, add up all of these calculations together: 

• Roof Area
• Materials required (add a little for waste)
• Labor

That final estimate will certainly give you a good idea of what your overall roofing project is going to cost. For reliable roofing services in St Albert, our experts provide fast, efficient, and affordable roofing solutions tailored to your needs!

The Bottom Line

How do I estimate my roof plan? – Estimate your roof plan by breaking it down into the process of: measuring your roof, deciding the area and pitch, accounting for materials and labor, and adding a bit on the top for waste. Never forget to add a bit extra for waste purposes, but in case you are unsure, call your professional to check it out for you. You will therefore be well-equipped to plan your roof project effectively.