How Much Does A Roof Cost? A Simple Breakdown

For many homeowners, understanding the cost of a new roof is part and parcel of owning a property. There’ll come a point when you’ll look up and wonder, “How much does a roof cost?” You might be part of the group that hopes they never have to find out, but knowing in advance can help you save and prepare.

In this article, we’ll share a breakdown of the costs associated with roofing. We’re going to be focusing on entire roof replacements. Don’t need a whole replacement? You may still need to know the cost of roof repair instead.

Roof Cost Considerations

Some major factors influence the cost of roof replacements. Some you can control, others you can’t.

Material Choice

Materials vary hugely in price. If you’re on a tight budget then you’ll likely want to consider an option such as asphalt shingles. On the other hand, when price isn’t an option some stunning aesthetic options are available at a much higher price. Copper and slate tend to be the most expensive options but look incredible.

Beyond aesthetics, each material has its advantages and disadvantages, most notably durability and lifespan. You should also ensure that you understand the maintenance needs of your choice. Some are more needy than others.

We’ve created a detailed guide on calculating roof material requirements.

Labor

Your roofing contractor costs will vary depending on where your property is, the size of the job, and the contractor’s experience. Expect to pay considerably more in areas where the cost of living is higher. Like many things, the best and most respected roofing contractors will be priced accordingly.

Roof Size and Complexity

Larger roofs cost more simply because they take more time and materials to complete. That said, some smaller roofing projects can also increase in cost due to the complexity of the design. Roofs that have a steep pitch and multiple levels or unusual features will raise costs.

Location

Some areas are pricier for roofing work. But, there are other location-based factors to consider too. If you live near the coast, you will have to invest in materials that can deal with the sea air and additional salt content. There are also additional costs for areas that are susceptible to extreme weather conditions such as snow and hail.

Permits and Regulations

Each region has its nuanced way of dealing with permits and regulations. You may find that you need them to be able to carry out any work on the roof at all. While expensive, the permits do at least ensure that a certain standard is reached and safety is secured.

Roofing Material Costs

As mentioned above, this is arguably your biggest factor to consider. Here’s a breakdown of what each material might cost:

Asphalt Shingles

$3.50-$5.50 per square foot
These are incredibly easy to install, quick to replace, and come in a variety of colors. They are a relatively weak material and will last between 15-30 years with good maintenance.

Metal Roofing

$6.00-$12.00 per square foot
Metal roofing is one of the most durable materials. It is great at handling extreme weather and can be very energy efficient. Expect to install a new metal roof after between 40-70 years depending on the specific metal chosen.

Tile Roofing

$8.00-$15.00 per square foot
Clay, terracotta, or concrete tiles will last around 50 years and apart from cleaning require little in the way of maintenance. Due to their significant weight, they’re only really options where the underlying roof structure is sturdy enough.

Slate

$15.00-$30.00 per square foot
Lasting upwards of 100 years, slate is incredibly durable. It’s a great combination of hardiness and elegance. As with tiles, slate weighs a great deal and therefore should only be considered for properties with a high degree of structural support.

Additional Costs to Consider

It’s not just the new materials and labor that factor into a new roof. Some other services and elements add to the total budget.

Removal of Old Roof

Out with the old, in with the new. The old material first needs to be removed and then disposed of. This comes with an associated cost. Depending on what material is being removed, and if there are multiple layers, you should factor in between $1.00-$5.00 per square foot.

Inspections

Before any professional roofing work takes place, you’ll need to have a series of roof inspections. The contractor will spend time assessing the roof structure and look at aspects such as the insulation and waterproofing. It’s a necessary part of the process that ensures your new installation has maximum longevity.

Warranties and Insurance

Some materials and installations will come with warranties. Investing in these is entirely up to you but can be worth it in the long run. Insurance providers will need to know about any major changes to your roof. Your premium may be subject to change, especially if the material has changed.

Unexpected Costs

Sometimes, during an inspection, additional damage is unearthed and needs to be dealt with before a new installation can be added. There are also things to consider such as weather-related delays that increase labor costs. A good practice is to plan a contingency budget of around 10-20% of the overall project cost.

Roof Replacement Costs Vary

How much does a roof cost? The answer is that it depends. It depends on your materials, your labor costs, your property itself, and myriad other factors. The above will, however, give you enough information to help you make an informed decision when comparing roofing contractors.

• When selecting your material make sure that you account for long-term value.
• Once installed, keep on top of maintenance to give your roof the longest lifespan.
• Always factor in a contingency fund when budgeting for roof works.

Trenton Roofing has been installing roofs for decades. We know the ins and outs of installations, no matter the size or scope of your project. We’ll provide you with a no-obligation, free estimate. All you have to do is give us a call, and we’ll explain the whole process from start to finish.