How to Determine the Linear Footage for Roofing

When it comes time to purchase materials for your house and your roof, you may find that many items are sold in linear feet, as opposed to square feet. While square feet refers to the total area of the roof, linear feet is simply a one-dimensional measurement. A linear foot does not take into account the height or width of your roof. Therefore, calculating the linear footage of your roof is fairly simple.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Ladder

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Place a ladder against the roof. Have a second person steady the ladder.

   • 2

     Measure the distance lengthwise across the roof, in feet.

   • 3

     Write down the length of the roof, in feet. This is the linear footage of your roofing. If you are purchasing roofing materials, remember to factor in the amount of overhang you need.