How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Roof?

What does a roof replacement cost?

The million dollar question most homeowners have when it's time to install a new roof is simple: How much is going to cost me? While there's no easy answer, there are some average replacement costs that can help you get a better idea of how much money you'll need to have in your budget to do the job right.

As with most home repairs and upgrades, you may also find that there's a disparity in cost from area to area. The roofing material you choose to use can also greatly impact your overall roof replacement cost.

Average cost to replace a roof: $5,000 to $11,000

Labor vs. materials

When you're shopping for a new roof, there's a good chance that you won't want to hunt down your own roofing materials or do the work yourself. Still, knowing how labor and materials will likely break down on your final bill can help you budget for a roofing renovation.

On average, 60% of your total cost for a roofing project will go towards labor. Installing a roof is a labor-intensive job and it requires professionals that know how to do the work properly. Skimping on labor could result in a roof that needs repairs sooner.

40% of your roofing budget will go to materials. This percentage may be slightly larger for high-end roofing upgrades like stone tile.

Compare different types of roofs

The cost of a roof replacement can vary from a few thousand dollars to close to $50,000 for high-end projects and oversized homes, with the average cost coming in at around $8,000. The size of the home can play a major role in the overall cost of a house, but the deciding factor is typically the style of roof being installed.

Below you'll find a range of the most popular roof styles and how each type impacts your bottom line when preparing for a roof upgrade.

Asphalt shingle Roofing

Asphalt roof shingles are very common, and if you're replacing an existing roof, there's a good chance this is the material currently in place. The main benefits of asphalt shingle roofing are that it is lightweight, which means less expense for the supporting structure beneath, and that it is easy to install.

This type of roofing is also one of the most cost-effective options on the market, and you may be able to easily handle repairs without hiring professionals in the future. Some savvy homeowners can even handle DIY installations of asphalt shingle roofing.

Average cost for asphalt shingle roofing materials and labor: $4,000 to $11,500

Tar and gravel roofing

Tar and gravel roofing, often referred to as built up roofing, is a system comprised of multiple layers all designed to provide long-term durability and protection for your home. Tar and gravel roofing may look somewhat similar to asphalt shingle roofing, but the installation process is somewhat different.

Tar and gravel roofing generally isn't recommended for areas that get a lot of rain or snow, as moisture can weaken the roofing membrane faster than desired.

Average cost for tar and gravel roofing materials and labor: $3,500 to $10,000

Tile roofing

Tile roofing is typically made with highly durable materials like concrete and clay, though more unique and even custom-made options are available if you're after a unique look. While tile is more expensive than asphalt shingle roofing, it does have a very stylish design that tends to last longer.

Tile also has the added benefit of being relatively easy to repair since a single tile or section of tiles can be changed out with minimal effort. Buying a little extra tile for replacements down the road is always recommended.

Concrete tile is the most cost-effective option, and it can take on a variety of different looks based on the design and manufacturing. Clay tile tends to cost about 15% to 20% more than concrete on average.

Average cost for tile roofing materials and labor: $6,000 to $20,000

Metal roofing

Metal roofing is a relatively cost-effective option and it does come in a range of different looks. It's also fairly good at regulating temperatures and dealing with different climate conditions.

However, repairs are often somewhat difficult and may require expert attention. You'll need to make sure you have ample replacement material on hand if you choose metal. Otherwise you may end up with a non-uniform look that isn't pleasing to the eye.

Average cost for metal roofing materials and labor: $4,000 to $12,500

Wood shake roofing

Wood shake roofing is particularly popular with homeowners that prefer a traditional style. However, this is a high-maintenance material that can wear down quickly. It's also more susceptible to fire damage.

On the plus side, wood shake roofing is a relatively cost-effective material. It's also easy to repair with replacement shingles, so make sure you buy extra when you start your project.

Average cost for wood shake roofing materials and labor: $8,500 to $20,000

Slate roofing

Slate roofing is growing in popularity because of its natural good looks and long-term durability. While slate will last for many years, it does tend to be more expensive. It's also somewhat difficult to repair on your own, though repairs are not regularly required.

Note that synthetic slate roofing does exist and can help save you some money if you're on a budget. However, synthetic slate doesn't tend to last as long as natural slate.

Average cost for natural slate materials and labor: $17,000 to $47,500
Average cost for synthetic slate materials and labor: $11,500 to $42,000

Copper roofing

Copper roofing is an elegant solution that takes on a gorgeous patina over time. Many people love this look, but copper roofing is not a cheap option. For that reason, it's typically reserved for smaller properties or high-end projects.

One benefit of copper roofing is that it will last for a very long time without the need for regular repair.

Average cost for copper roofing materials and labor: $22,000 to $60,000

Composite roofing

Composite roofing is a synthetic shingle type that's often made to look like natural wood shake or slate. The reason composite roofing is attractive is because it marries long-term durability with a price point that works for many projects.

Composite roofing can be made from a number of different materials, but a combination of asphalt, fiberglass, recycled paper and even rubber are often used.

Average cost for composite roofing materials and labor: $12,000 to $22,000

What if I want to change my roof type?

Updating your existing roof with the same roofing material is always the most practical, cost-effective choice. That doesn't mean there aren't times when switching to a new material aren't warranted though, particularly if you're trying to give your home a certain look or you want to switch to a material that's more durable long-term.

It's important to note that switching roofing materials from a lightweight to a heavier option is generally the most expensive and cost-prohibitive option. That's because the structure beneath your roof may need to be reinforced to support the added weight.

Average cost to change my roof type: $6,500 to $13,500

Are there any additional costs?

Many estimates you get for replacing your roof will have everything built into the total price you're expected to pay. However, there can be some surprises when you're installing a new roof. Here are a few factors you'll need to keep in mind:

• You may need to pay to have your old roof removed first. This cost is about $1 to $5 per square foot on average, though you may be quoted a flat or hourly rate for the project.
• You may be subject to additional inspection fees when making a major roofing upgrade. Inspection fees can vary from $200 to $1,000 or more.
• You may need building permits. These permits are common and tend to cost no more than a few hundred dollars depending on your area.
• Roofing underlayment may not be part of your estimate. Underlayment is a waterproof or water-resistant material applied to the top of your roof to protect it from damage. Underlayment costs are minimal, ranging anywhere from $250 to $1,500 on average.

How much does a new roof cost?

Replacing the top layer of your roof and potentially reinforcing the structure below is typically the most cost-effective solution. In some cases, a new roof that consists of your top layer roofing material and a total rebuild of your underlying structure may be required.

Note that the average cost of a new roof is greatly impacted by the size of your home and the materials used.

Average cost for installing a new roof labors and material: $9,500 to $25,000