Roofing Weight Calculator
Metal vs. Shingles: The “Top-Heavy” Analysis.
1. Roof Dimensions
Include overhangs!
Include eaves!
Steeper roofs have more surface area.
House
Area Multiplier: 1.05x
Material Weight Comparison
True Roof Area: 0 sq ft
Asphalt Shingles (3-Tab)
0 lbs
HEAVY
Adds sway risk (Top-Heavy)
Standing Seam Metal
0 lbs
LIGHT
Lowers Center of Gravity
Weight Saved
By choosing Metal over Shingles
0 lbs
That’s a whole motorcycle!
The “Center of Gravity” Factor
Why Height Matters
Adding 500 lbs to your floor is fine. Adding 500 lbs to your roof (13ft in the air) is dangerous. This “high weight” acts like a pendulum, amplifying sway forces when you turn or change lanes.
Wind Rating
Aside from weight, asphalt shingles often blow off at highway speeds (60mph+ sustained wind). Metal roofing is mechanically fastened and rated for 100mph+ winds, making it the safer choice for towing.