How Much Does a Bundle of Roof Shingles Weigh?
If you're planning a roofing project — big or small — you've probably wondered how heavy those bundles of shingles really are. Maybe you need to carry them up a ladder, load them into your truck, or figure out if your roof deck can handle the weight. Whatever the reason, understanding shingle weight is more important than most people think. Let's keep it simple and walk through everything you need to know.
The Short Answer
A typical bundle of roof shingles weighs between 50 and 80 pounds. But the exact weight depends on the type of shingles you're buying. Lighter shingles weigh closer to 50 lbs per bundle, while heavier, thicker shingles can push past 80 lbs.
Weight by Shingle Type
Not all shingles are the same. Here's a simple breakdown:
3-Tab Asphalt Shingles (the most common and lightest) These are the basic, flat shingles you see on many homes. They are thin, affordable, and easy to work with.
- Weight per bundle: 50 to 65 pounds
- Weight per square (3 bundles): 150 to 195 pounds
Architectural / Dimensional Shingles (thicker and more popular today) These shingles have a layered look that gives roofs more texture and style. They're heavier than 3-tab shingles because they use more material.
- Weight per bundle: 65 to 80 pounds
- Weight per square (3–4 bundles): 240 to 320 pounds
Premium or Luxury Shingles (the heaviest option) These are the top-of-the-line shingles built to mimic the look of wood shake or slate. They are thick, durable, and very heavy.
- Weight per bundle: can exceed 90 to 100 pounds
- Weight per square: over 400 pounds in some cases
Why Does Weight Matter?
You might be thinking — who cares how much they weigh? Actually, shingle weight matters for a few important reasons.
1. Your Roof Deck Has Limits Every roof has a structure underneath called a roof deck. That deck can only hold so much weight safely. If you're re-roofing over old shingles instead of removing them, the combined weight of two layers of shingles needs to stay within safe limits. Most building codes allow a maximum of two layers of shingles on a roof for this reason.
2. Carrying and Safety An 80-pound bundle is no joke, especially when you're climbing a ladder. Knowing the weight ahead of time helps you plan. You may want a helper, a shingle conveyor (lift), or to carry one bundle at a time to stay safe.
3. Truck and Delivery Planning If you're picking up shingles yourself, weight adds up fast. Say you need 40 bundles at 70 lbs each — that's 2,800 pounds of shingles. Most pickup trucks can handle 1,000 to 2,000 lbs in the bed, so you may need two trips or a delivery service.
A Simple Weight Example
Let's say your roof needs 15 squares of architectural shingles, which require 4 bundles per square.
- Total bundles: 15 × 4 = 60 bundles
- Weight per bundle: ~70 lbs
- Total weight: 60 × 70 = 4,200 pounds
That's over two tons of shingles sitting on your roof structure! This is exactly why checking your roof's load capacity before starting is a smart move.
Tips to Keep in Mind
Check the bag label. Every bundle has the weight printed on it. Don't guess — just look.
Don't rush when lifting. Bend your knees, keep your back straight, and ask for help when needed. A strained back isn't worth it.
Store shingles flat. If you're storing bundles before installation, keep them flat on a solid surface. Stacking them on their edges can cause them to warp or bend.
Buy from the same batch. Shingle weight can vary slightly between production runs. Buying all bundles at once keeps things consistent in both weight and color.
The Bottom Line
A bundle of roof shingles typically weighs 50 to 80 pounds, depending on whether you choose 3-tab, architectural, or premium shingles. Weight affects everything from your roof's structure and safety to how you transport and handle the materials. Before your next roofing project, take a moment to check the bundle weight, do the math, and plan accordingly. A little preparation goes a long way — and saves your back too!