How much coil for a metal roof? Turn roof dimensions into the number of panels, the linear feet of coil and the weight to order. It works for each roof plane, then adds them up.
How much coil for a roof
- Result
- Fill in the fields to see the result.
Estimate based on nominal thickness and the values above. Confirm with us before ordering.
The method
- Panels per plane = eave length ÷ panel coverage width, rounded up to a whole panel.
- Panel length = eave to ridge measured along the slope, plus any overhang and hem.
- Linear feet = panels × panel length × (1 + waste).
- Pounds = linear feet × weight per foot of the coil width you run.
Worked example
A plane with a 40-foot eave, 16-inch panels and 18-foot panel length:
- 480 inches ÷ 16 = 30 panels.
- 30 × 18 = 540 linear feet.
- With 10% waste, 594 linear feet.
- Run from 20″ × .032″ aluminum at about 0.75 lb per foot, that’s roughly 445 lb of coil.
Measuring on a pitched roof
If you only have plan dimensions, multiply the horizontal run by the pitch factor to get the length along the slope. For a 6:12 pitch, the factor is about 1.118. The calculator does this when you enter the pitch.
Coverage width vs. coil width
Coverage is the finished width of one panel on the roof. The coil is wider, because the seams take up metal. A 16-inch panel is often formed from coil about 20 inches wide, but your machine’s profile sheet gives the exact figure. Tell us the machine and profile, and we’ll match the coil.
Questions
How much waste should I add?
A simple gable needs less than a cut-up roof with hips, valleys and dormers. Use the calculator’s waste field and adjust for the roof.
Does this include trim?
No. Use the trim and accessory estimator for eave, rake, ridge and valley trim.
Can I order the exact linear feet?
Ask us. Depending on the item, you can buy a full coil or have it cut. See our cut-to-length service.
Convert pounds and feet for any width on the coil weight calculator, or see all metal roofing calculators.