How much do architectural shingles weigh?
Short answer. Most mainstream architectural shingles weigh roughly 65 to 80 pounds per bundle, and with three bundles per square that works out to about 200 to 250 pounds per 100 square feet of roof. Thicker premium lines weigh more, and designer shingles that imitate slate or shake can weigh well over 300 pounds per square.
Typical weights by shingle type
- 3-tab shingles. The lightest asphalt option, usually somewhat under standard architectural.
- Standard architectural. Commonly around 65 to 80 pounds per bundle. A popular line such as GAF Timberline HDZ is listed at about 70 pounds per bundle, or roughly 210 pounds per square.
- Thicker and impact-resistant lines. Often heavier than standard architectural.
- Designer shingles. Multiple layers and four or five bundles per square push them much higher.
- Metal roofing, for comparison. Usually far lighter per square than any asphalt shingle.
The exact figure is printed on the bundle wrapper or the manufacturer's product data sheet.
Why the weight matters
- Roof framing. Typical Georgia roof framing handles a single layer of architectural shingles easily. Heavy designer shingles or a second layer added over old shingles add load that older or lightly framed roofs may not be designed for.
- Roofing over. Two layers of asphalt can roughly double the dead load, one reason many roofers and codes discourage it. Code limits how many layers are allowed.
- Delivery. Supply trucks often load bundles directly onto the roof with a conveyor. On a typical home that can be several tons of shingles spread across the roof, placed over walls and ridges to spread the weight.
- Disposal. Tear-off debris is heavy, which is why dumpster size and haul-off cost scale with layers removed.
DIYers should note that carrying 70-plus pound bundles up a ladder is one of the riskier parts of roofing. See roofing over existing shingles and architectural vs 3-tab shingles.