Is it time to replace your roof? You may be wondering how much it’ll cost and if you can afford to put it off to keep more money in your pocket for a bit.
The reality is roof replacement is costly and could place a dent in your wallet. But delaying the repair for an extended period can end up costing you even more, especially if it leads to more serious damage. So, you’re better off moving forward with the repair and exploring financing options if needed than waiting around until things get out of hand.
Average Costs of Roof Replacement in the U.S.
Most homeowners spend between $5,000 and $12,000 on roof replacements. However, it varies by the type of roof you select and the square footage of the property. The more pricey the material and the bigger the home, the more you’ll spend.
How to Estimate Roof Replacement Costs
Consider these factors when estimating how much you’ll spend to replace the roof on your home.
Location
Do you live in a state where extreme climate conditions, like high temperatures, excessive rainfall and hurricanes, are common? Expect to spend more on roofing materials that will hold up over time.
Roof Accessibility/House Stories
Roof replacement costs for one-story homes are cheaper than you’ll find with two-story homes. However, the latter sometimes makes it more challenging to access the roof and can create safety challenges that take the roofing company some time to remedy.
Roof Size and Shape
The larger the roof, the steeper the costs. Shaping also plays a role in the overall cost structure of roof replacements.
Roof Pitch/Slope
If your roof is steep, the contractor may have to use scaffolding to access it. It may also be necessary to install different materials under the shingles, driving replacement costs up.
Roof/Shingle Type and Material
The average replacement costs mentioned above were for jobs where standard materials were used. But if you’re looking to use luxury shingles and materials, costs could be well above $20,000.
Roof Features
Is your home equipped with unique windows, skylights, or a chimney that mandates waterproofing cuts, special flashing, or caulking? If so, you’ll need to increase your roof replacement budget.
Labor and Permits
- Average cost: $1.50 – $3.00/ square foot
Labor costs are often quoted in the form of a square since the size of a roofing square is equivalent to 100 square feet. In addition, permitting fees are typically included in this rate.
Inspection Costs
- Average cost: $200 – $600
You can opt to have your roof inspected following replacement to confirm there are no issues with the installation. In fact, it’s often required to ensure the re-roofing is up to code.
Removal/Disposal Costs
Does your roof have an additional layer of shingles that need to be removed and disposed of before starting the replacement? You’ll likely pay more as it tacks on the additional time needed to complete the job.
Other Considerations That Can Affect Roof Replacement Costs
Here are some other factors that can determine how much you spend on a roof replacement.
Current Roof Condition
Is your current roof in bad shape? If so, you could incur additional costs if the roofing company has to take additional time with the replacement to avoid safety issues.
DIY vs. Hiring Professionals
Unless you’re a licensed contractor with extensive roofing knowledge, taking the DIY approach to replace your roof isn’t the best choice. In fact, it could be illegal in your state of residence and costly if you make mistakes that must be cleaned up by a professional.
Full vs. Partial Roof Replacement
It’s much cheaper to repair or partially replace a roof than to give it an entire overhaul. However, deciding if this is a smart move depends on the current condition of your roof. Consult with a reputable roofing contractor to determine the best way to move forward.
Underlying Structural Repairs
Does your roof require structural repairs underneath the shingles before new ones are installed? It could add several thousand more to your budget, depending on the severity of the issue and the extent of the repair.
