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Planning a siding project? You’ll need to get your head around “squares.” One square equals 100 square feet of coverage, but how many pieces that includes depends on the type of siding.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to calculate it all, so you buy just the right amount—no guesswork, no waste, just a smooth, stress-free install.
How many pieces of siding are in a square?
One square of siding (which covers 100 square feet) typically contains around 20 to 25 pieces, depending on the type and size of the siding panels.
Key Takeaways
- One square of siding covers 100 square feet of surface area.
- The number of pieces of siding in a square depends on the size and style of the siding.
- Accurately calculating the number of pieces needed can save you time and money on your siding project.
What Is a Square in Siding?
A “square” is a unit of measurement used in the siding industry to denote the area that one package of siding covers.
It is equivalent to 100 square feet. While it might sound like an arbitrary term, it’s a standard unit of measurement that helps contractors, suppliers, and homeowners estimate how much material is required for a given area.
When calculating how many pieces of siding are in a square, it’s important to remember that the size of the pieces and the style of siding will determine the exact number.
For instance, vinyl siding, wood siding, and fibre cement all have different dimensions and installation patterns.
How to Calculate the Number of Pieces of Siding in a Square
To figure out how many pieces of siding you’ll need to cover a square, you’ll need to consider the dimensions of each individual piece.
Siding comes in various styles, including vertical, horizontal, and shingle-style, with different lengths and widths.
Below is a general approach to calculating how many pieces will be in one square.
Measure the Dimensions of Each Siding Piece
To start, measure the length and width of the siding boards or panels. The most common size for horizontal vinyl siding is around 12 feet long by 6 inches high.
For other types of siding, such as wood or fibre cement, the sizes may vary, but the process remains the same.
Calculate the Area of One Piece
Once you have the dimensions of the siding, you can calculate the area of one piece. Multiply the length by the height to get the total square footage of each piece.
For example, a 12-foot-long, 6-inch-high piece would cover:
Determine How Many Pieces Are in One Square
Since one square of siding covers 100 square feet, you can calculate how many pieces will fit into one square by dividing 100 by the square footage of one piece.
So, for every square of siding, you would need around 17 pieces of the 12-foot-long, 6-inch-high siding boards. This number will vary if your siding pieces are larger or smaller.
Other Factors That Affect Siding Calculation
While the basic calculation above gives a general idea, there are other factors that could influence how much siding you need:
Siding Style and Design
Different types of siding may have different coverage areas. For example, cedar shakes or shingles are often smaller in size and will require more pieces to cover 100 square feet.
Similarly, certain styles, like lap siding, may overlap, which means you need to account for the overlap when calculating the number of pieces required.
Wastage and Cuts
During installation, some siding pieces will need to be cut to fit the dimensions of your home. This results in wastage, which should be factored into your overall calculation.
Typically, you should add 10-15% extra material to your order to account for waste and mistakes during installation.
Height and Angle of Installation
If you’re working on a house with varying angles or heights, you’ll need to calculate the area of the walls separately to ensure you purchase the right amount of material.
For example, gable ends or areas with complicated architecture may require more precise measurements.
Why Is It Important to Know the Number of Pieces in a Square?
Understanding how many pieces of siding are in a square is critical for several reasons:
Cost Estimation
Knowing how much material you need helps you estimate the total cost of the project.
Whether you’re doing the work yourself or hiring a contractor, understanding the amount of siding required will help you budget accordingly.
Avoiding Shortages
Running out of siding halfway through your project can be frustrating, especially if the specific style or colour is unavailable.
By calculating the number of pieces per square, you can ensure that you order enough material to cover the entire job.
Efficient Planning
Properly calculating your siding requirements helps you plan for the installation process, making it easier to manage delivery schedules and minimise delays.
It also ensures that you are ready for the next steps, such as cutting and fitting the material.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I calculate how much siding I need for my home?
To calculate how much siding you need, measure the total area of the exterior walls and divide by the coverage area of one piece of siding. Be sure to account for windows, doors, and any other openings.
2. Can I install siding myself?
While it’s possible to install siding yourself, it requires careful measurement and attention to detail. If you’re unsure, it may be best to hire a professional contractor to ensure proper installation.
3. What’s the difference between a square and a piece of siding?
A square is a unit of measurement that covers 100 square feet of area. The number of pieces in a square will depend on the size of the siding material you are using. Typically, a 12-foot by 6-inch board will contain about 17 pieces per square.
Conclusion
Knowing how many pieces of siding are in a square is an essential step in planning a siding project.
Whether you’re installing vinyl, wood, or fibre cement siding, understanding how much material you need will help you make informed decisions about your budget and timeline.
By carefully considering your options and following the tips outlined above, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a beautiful, durable exterior for your home.
Be sure to account for waste and variations in material size, and don’t hesitate to consult with a professional if you’re unsure of your measurements.
