Are you realizing that it might finally be time to replace your roof? Maybe your roof is old, or a heavy storm has caused damage that requires more than just a little TLC. Whatever your reason for installing a new roof, we know it can seem scary to dive into this kind of home improvement project.
Replacing your roof is a significant investment, so it’s no wonder homeowners always ask us this question first: how much does a new roof cost?
Many minor details and more significant factors go into determining the final cost of a residential roof replacement, so it can definitely get a little confusing. But if you’re considering a new roof for your home, you’ve come to the right place. Below, we provide a breakdown of average roof replacement costs, outline the costs of different roofing materials, and offer tips to help save money on your roof replacement. Keep reading to learn more.
Average Cost of a Roof Replacement
- Typical Range: $5,500 to $21,000
- National Average: $11,500
The average cost to replace a roof is anywhere between $5,500 and $21,000, with most homeowners spending around $8,000-$11,500 on a medium-sized ranch home. Larger homes with intricate roofs and more expensive materials will obviously cost more, but your location and many other factors will also play a role in how much you’ll spend.
9 Factors for Calculating a Roof Replacement Cost
Let’s take a look at a few of those factors we mentioned briefly above that can affect the final calculation of your new roof cost:
1. Height and Accessibility
If your roof is easy to access and isn’t too high off the ground, it will be less expensive to replace than a taller, harder-to-reach roof. This is because the roofers won’t need to use as much equipment or spend as much time on the project.
2. Removal Expenses
Another factor to consider is the state of your current roof. If it’s going to require a lot of work to get rid of your old roof, or you’ll require professional waste disposal services to dump the old roofing materials, you could incur higher final costs. Roof removal services typically run between $1 and $5 per square foot.
3. Underlying Repairs
You’ll also need to think about the structural integrity of your underlying roof. Fixing holes or leaks, removing rotted timber, and sealing the underlayment’s surface will all be added expenses.
4. Geographical Location
Like many other home improvements, a roof replacement cost can vary based on where you live. That is because different climates can affect installation timelines or the overall durability of your roof over time. In addition, homeowners who live in more expensive areas like New York and California can expect higher replacement costs simply because of the nature of those local economies.
5. Roof Size and Pitch
The size of your roof also greatly impacts how much it will cost to replace. A larger roof will take more time and materials to replace than a smaller one. The pitch of your roof, or how steep it is, can impact the cost of replacement as well. For example, a steeper roof is more difficult to work on and will require more time and materials, meaning it will be more expensive to replace.
6. Features and Shape
Your roof’s features, such as skylights or chimneys, can also add to the project’s overall cost. Plus, a more complex roof shape will typically be more expensive to work with than a simpler design, so roofs with unique towers and turrets or jutting windows often cost more to replace.
7. Permits and Inspections
In some cases, you may need to obtain a permit from your city or county before replacing your roof. The permit cost will be added to your total roof replacement price. Plus, most roofing companies will charge extra for the time and resources needed to get the permit approved.
You may also need to have your new roof inspected by a professional after it’s installed. This inspection is typically required by your city or county and will also add to the overall cost of your roof replacement.
8. Labor Costs
The roofers you hire to replace your roof will also play a role in how much you’ll spend. You’ll want to be sure to hire a reputable and experienced roofing company to avoid any future problems or kinks in the installation process that create additional costs down the line.
9. Roofing Materials
The type of roofing material you choose will be one of the biggest factors in the overall cost of your new roof, of course, but we’ll talk more about that below.
New Roof Costs by Roofing Material
Now that we’ve gone over some of the main factors that can affect how much you’ll spend on a new roof replacement let’s look at the average cost of different roofing materials.
1. Asphalt Shingle Roof
Asphalt shingle roofs are the most popular type of roof in the US and for good reason. They’re relatively inexpensive to install, easy to repair, and last between 15 and 30 years on average.
The average cost of an asphalt shingle roof replacement is $4,800 to $9,600.
2. Metal Roof
Metal roofs are a great option if you’re looking for a durable and long-lasting roof. They can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance and are also eco-friendly and energy-efficient.
The average cost of a metal roof replacement ranges from $8,000 to $20,000, depending on the style, color, and size.
3. Wood Shake Roof
Wood shake roofs are a beautiful and classic option, but they require more maintenance than other types of roofs, meaning they are often more costly. They also have a shorter lifespan, only about 20 to 30 years on average. The average cost of a wood shake roof replacement is $8,000 to $12,000.
4. Slate Roofing
Slate is one of the most durable roofing materials on the market, lasting up to 100 years with proper care and maintenance. However, it’s also one of the most expensive options, with an average replacement cost of $10,000 to $20,000.
5. Tile Roofing
Tile roofs are another long-lasting option, typically lasting between 50 and 100 years with proper care. They’re also eco-friendly, fire-resistant, and energy-efficient. However, they can be expensive to replace, with an average cost of $8,000 to $15,000, depending on the type of tile.
6. Composite Shingles
Composite shingles are another budget-friendly option that can last 20 to 30 years with proper care. They’re made of recycled materials and fire-resistant, making them a good choice for eco-conscious homeowners. The average cost of a composite shingle roof replacement is $4,000 to $9,000.
7. Built-Up or Single-Ply Roofing
Built-up roofing is a type of roof made up of multiple layers of materials, typically tar and gravel. It’s a durable option lasting up to 20 years with proper care. However, it’s also one of the more expensive options, with an average replacement cost of $8,000 to $12,000
8. Solar Panels
Solar roofing panels are becoming increasingly popular as homeowners look for ways to save money on energy costs. Solar panels can last up to 30 years and are relatively low-maintenance, but they require a significant upfront investment. The average cost of solar roofing panels is $16,000 to $24,000.
How to Know When You Need a New Roof
One of the most common questions we get from homeowners is, “How do I know when I need a new roof?” There are a few key reasons you might start considering a roof replacement, including:
Your Existing Roof Is Old 👵🏻
Although roofing is meant to be durable, all roof materials have an expiration date. Each roofing material has its own average lifespan, and we’ll discuss those further down below. Be on the lookout for some of the common signs that your roof is nearing the end of its life expectancy, such as:
- Shingles that are cracked, curling, or missing
- Leaks or water damage in your attic or ceilings
- Daylight coming through your roof into the attic
- Excessive amounts of shingle granules in your gutters
- Moss and algae growth on roofing materials
- Shingle discoloration and fading
- Sagging rafters or roof eaves
If you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s time to call a roofing contractor for an inspection. They’ll be able to tell you for sure whether you need a new roof or if you can get by with a repair.
Your Neighborhood Is Changing 🏘
Another reason homeowners choose to replace their roofs is simply due to aesthetics or style trend changes. If your home is the only one on the block with an old, outdated roof, you might start feeling pressure to keep up with the Joneses and replace it.
Your Roof Is Damaged Beyond Repair 🏚
One of the most common reasons for premature roof failure is severe storm damage. High winds can loosen or tear off shingles, while hail can cause indentations and cracks. If a storm has damaged your roof, it’s important to have it inspected by a professional as soon as possible to determine the extent of the damage and whether you need a repair or replacement.
Some of the most common ways roofing can get damaged during a storm (and still be covered by homeowners insurance) include:
- Hail
- Wind
- Fallen debris
- Fire
- Vandalism
- Water damage
- Lightning
- Other “Acts of God”
Your Energy Bills Are Growing 📈
If you’ve noticed a marked increase in energy bills, it might be due to poor roof insulation. Over time, the insulation in your attic can settle and become compacted, leaving gaps and holes for heat or cool air to escape. This causes your HVAC system to work overtime to maintain the temperature inside your home, leading to higher energy bills.
Replacing your roof is an excellent opportunity to upgrade your insulation and improve your home’s energy efficiency.
You’re Getting Ready to Sell Your House 💸
If you’re considering selling your home soon, a new roof can be a great investment. A roof replacement can increase your home’s curb appeal and value, making it more attractive to potential buyers.
Average Roofing Lifespans
Now that we’ve covered some of the most common reasons homeowners need a new roof let’s talk about how long you can expect your roof to last. As we mentioned earlier, each roofing material has a different lifespan. Here’s a quick overview of how long you can expect popular roofing materials to last:
- Asphalt shingles: 15-30 years
- Cedar shakes: 30-50 years
- Metal roofs: 40-70 years
- Tile roofing: 50-100 years
- Composite shingles: 20-30 years
- Solar panels: 30 years
- Built-up roofing: 20 years
Tips to Cut Down Your Roof Replacement Cost
Now that you know how much it costs to replace different types of roofs, you may be wondering how you can save money on your roof replacement project. Here are a few tips:
- Get multiple quotes from different roofing companies before making a decision. This will help you ensure you’re getting the best price possible.
- If your roof is in good condition, you may get away with a simple repair instead of a total replacement. This can save you a significant amount of money.
- Choose a less expensive roofing material, such as asphalt or composite shingles, if you’re on a budget.
- If you’re handy, you may be able to do some of the work yourself. However, we recommend hiring a professional for the majority of the project to ensure it’s done correctly.
Professional vs. DIY Roof Replacement
Since the costs associated with installing a new roof are relatively high, you may be wondering if you should do it yourself or hire a professional. Here are some things to consider:
- The average cost of a professional roof replacement is $5,000 to $10,000.
- The average cost of a DIY roof replacement is $1,500 to $4,000.
- The average roof replacement takes two to four days to complete.
If you’re considering a DIY roof replacement, be sure to do your research and understand the risks before starting the project. Although doing it yourself might help save some money upfront, it’s also vital to remember that roofing is a dangerous job with one of the highest fatality rates.
For that reason, we recommend leaving the arduous and often dangerous task of replacing your roof to the professionals. Hiring a professional roofer has many benefits, including peace of mind, a warranty on the workmanship, and a guarantee that the job will get done right the first time around.
Choose Professional Roofers for a Perfect New Roof
Replacing your roof can be a big expense, but it’s important to remember that it’s an investment in your home. A new roof will not only improve the look of your home, but it will also increase its value and protect it from the elements.
If you’re considering a roof replacement, shop for multiple quotes from different roofing companies to ensure you get the best price possible. Put your trust in professional roofers like the team at DuraShield to get your job done right the first time, so you don’t have to worry about paying even more down the line. Contact us today to get started installing your new roof now.