Answering the question of how to cover 20 squares efficiently, this guide previews practical shingle choices and related roof components. The selections emphasize durability, ease of installation, and suitability for residential work. Best for DIY homeowners and small contractors who need dependable materials with predictable coverage. The top options are grouped by practical use: traditional cedar shingles for natural rot resistance, primed options for faster paint-ready results, and roof accessories that complement a shingle installation. A quick comparison table follows to help you decide at a glance.
| Product | Brand | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24″ Resquared & Rebutted Sanded Shingles 1/4 Square Certigrade | Generic | DIYers and small projects | Includes ready-to-install, consistent 25 sq ft per bundle coverage |
| Western Red Cedar Shingles -24 Inch, Primed White & Sanded, 1/4 Square | Pacific Coast | Professional remodels and homes needing paint-ready siding/roofing | Factory-primed and sanded for faster painting |
| Western Red Cedar Fancy Cut Shingles (Square) | N/A | Traditional cedar aesthetics | Resquared, square-cut pieces for a classic cedar look |
| Accentua Bryce Cupola, 20 in. Square | Accentua | Roofline accent and ventilation components | Square roof vent with peaked aluminum roof for various pitches |
| SIG Skylights FMB 20 1/2 x 20 1/2 Deck Mounted | SIG Skylights | Skylight integration with shingle roofs | All-metal framing, tempered glass, no plastic components |
24″ Resquared & Rebutted Sanded Shingles 1/4 Square Certigrade
Best for: Homeowners planning classic cedar aesthetics with straightforward installation. This option provides 25 square feet per bundle at 7-1/2″ exposure, with 4 bundles required per square at the same exposure. The data suggests predictable coverage per bundle, helpful for estimating material needs. The product’s resquared and rebutted profile supports traditional roof lines where uniform board dimensions matter. A potential limitation is variation in width across bundles, which can affect edge alignment on complex roof shapes.
Western Red Cedar Shingles -24 Inch, Primed White & Sanded
Best for: Projects where faster paint coverage is essential. Premium Western Red Cedar offers natural rot and moisture resistance, suitable for exterior roofing and siding. The factory-primed white finish reduces prep time, allowing quicker completion of the final painted look. The shingles are designed for roofing and siding on residential or light commercial builds. A caution: primed surfaces may require specific paint types or additional topcoats for long-term color retention on sun-exposed roofs.
Western Red Cedar Fancy Cut Shingles (Square)
Best for: Traditional cedar appearance with a square-cut profile. This option provides similar coverage parameters (25 sq ft per bundle at 7-1/2″ exposure, 4 bundles per square) and a dense pile of pieces (96 per box) for uniform installation. The square cut can create a clean, classic cedar finish. Limitation: exact width and cut alignment may vary across bundles, so plan for a tight-fitting course layout on larger roofs.
Accentua Bryce Cupola, 20 in. Square
Best for: Roofline accent and ventilation augmentation on pitched roofs. The cupola adds architectural interest and can help with attic ventilation. Best used on mid-to-large roof projects where a decorative/functional opening complements the shingle layout. Caution: ensure compatibility with local roof pitch and flashing requirements; decorative components should be paired with appropriate weatherproofing.
SIG Skylights FMB 20 1/2 x 20 1/2 Deck Mounted
Best for: Skylight integration with shingle roofs to maximize daylight while maintaining weather resistance. This deck-mounted skylight features a heavy aluminum welded frame, double-pane tempered glass, and a bronze powder-coated cover. It offers an easy install with a built-in curb. Caution: installation requires precise flashing and sealing to prevent leaks around the skylight well and curb area.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Material and climate: Cedar options offer natural rot resistance but require maintenance. Primed options save painting time but depend on compatible primers and paints.
- Coverage and bundles: Confirm square footage per bundle and number of bundles per square to estimate total needs for 20 squares.
- Installation ease: Look for pre-sanded, rebated, or primed surfaces that reduce prep work. Consider square-cut patterns for a traditional look.
- Aesthetics vs. function: Cedar provides natural warmth; add decorative cupolas or skylights for light and ventilation considerations.
- Compatibility with roof pitch: Ensure components, such as cupolas and skylights, fit your roof’s pitch and flashing requirements.
FAQ
- What does 7-1/2″ exposure mean for shingles?
Answer: It refers to the portion of each shingle that is visible after installation, affecting coverage per bundle and total square calculation. - Are primed cedar shingles worth it?
Answer: Yes, if you want faster paint readiness and consistent color on arrival, reducing prep time. - What is the difference between square-cut and fancy-cut cedar shingles?
Answer: Fancy-cut typically has more decorative edges, while square-cut presents a straightforward geometric look. - Do cedar shingles require maintenance?
Answer: Cedar often benefits from sealant or stain to maintain color and protect against moisture and insects, depending on climate. - Can I install a skylight with cedar shingles?
Answer: Yes, but the installation must include proper flashing and sealing to prevent leaks around the skylight opening.