What is SQ (Square)?

A Square is a standard unit used in roofing to measure surface area, equal to 100 square feet.

Definition

A Square refers to a surface area measuring 10 feet by 10 feet, or 100 square feet in total. Roofers use it as a standard unit to measure roof surface areas accurately.

Purpose

A Square is a unit used in roofing that equals 100 square feet, or a 10-foot by 10-foot area. Contractors use it to build material takeoffs and project pricing much more easily and accurately.

Examples of Use

Shingles: Asphalt shingles are usually sold by the square, and around three bundles are needed to cover 100 square feet.
Underlayment: Roofing felt and other underlayment materials are supplied and calculated per square.
Metal Roofing: Contractors often estimate and price metal panels and standing seam roofing systems by the square.
Flat Roofing: Membrane systems used on commercial or low-pitch roofs are measured and costed in squares.

Related Terms

Sfca Construction

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SFCA assists teams to break down costs into distinct groups, thereby ensuring that a more consistent tracking of costs across projects.

Metal Fabrication

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Metal Fabrication is the process of cutting, bending, and assembling metal to create structures or components.

D-Load

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D-Load is the permanent weight of a building’s materials and fixed components that the structure must support over time.

Notes

Steeper roofs have a larger actual surface area than their floor plan suggests, so roof pitch must be considered when calculating roofing squares.
Complex roof designs with valleys, hips, or dormers often need extra materials due to installation waste.
It is best to rely on professional contractors to ensure accurate material estimates and reduce the risk of over- or under-ordering.

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