Home & DIY

Metal Roofing Calculator

Metal panels and screws for a roof.

Enter your values

ⓘ Live results

Results
Panels needed
15
Roof area
1200 sq ft
Screws needed (~1.3/sq ft)
1,560
Panel length to order
30 ft each

Quick answer

Panel count is roof area divided by the effective coverage width of each panel, plus waste for overlaps and cuts.

panels = ceil(roof width / effective panel coverage width)

How to use the Metal Roofing Calculator

  1. 1Measure the sloped roof length (eave to ridge) and the width to be covered.
  2. 2Check the effective coverage width of your metal panel after overlap.
  3. 3Add 5-10% waste for hips, valleys and end cuts.

Worked example

Using the values the calculator loads with:

Inputs

  • Roof slope length30 ft
  • Roof width40 ft
  • Panel coverage width3 ft
  • Waste allowance10 %

Results

  • Panels needed15
  • Roof area1200 sq ft
  • Screws needed (~1.3/sq ft)1,560
  • Panel length to order30 ft each

Frequently asked questions

Do I need underlayment under metal roofing?

Yes, a synthetic or felt underlayment is standard beneath metal panels.

How many screws per panel?

Roughly 1.3-1.5 screws per square foot including ribs and end laps, more at eaves and ridges.

About this calculator

Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.