Roof Replacement Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost of your new roof based on square footage, materials, and complexity.
Estimated Replacement Summary
*This is an estimate. Actual prices vary by region and contractor.
Understanding Your Roof Replacement Costs
Replacing a roof is one of the most significant investments a homeowner will make. Understanding the variables involved helps you budget effectively and negotiate with roofing contractors. The primary factors affecting your total cost include square footage, material choice, and the physical complexity of the roof.
1. Roofing Squares and Area
Roofers measure roofs in "squares." One square equals 100 square feet. If your roof area is 2,000 square feet, your contractor sees that as 20 squares. The larger the area, the more materials and labor are required. However, the price per square often decreases slightly on very large projects due to economies of scale.
2. Material Selection
Materials are the biggest variable in your budget:
- Asphalt Shingles: The most popular and affordable option, typically lasting 15-30 years.
- Metal Roofing: Durable and energy-efficient, often lasting 40-70 years but costing 2-3 times more than asphalt.
- Slate and Tile: Premium materials that offer incredible longevity (75+ years) but require reinforced roof structures due to their extreme weight.
3. Roof Pitch and Complexity
A "steep" roof is more dangerous for workers and requires specialized safety equipment. This increases labor costs. Complexity also refers to the number of valleys, dormers, chimneys, and skylights that require "flashing" (waterproofing material). A simple gable roof is much cheaper to replace than a complex Victorian-style roof with multiple facets.
4. The Tear-Off Process
Most local building codes allow for a maximum of two layers of shingles. If you already have two layers, or if the underlying decking is damaged, a full tear-off is mandatory. This involves removing all old materials, disposing of them in a dumpster, and inspecting the wood deck underneath for rot.
Example Calculation
Suppose you have a 2,500 sq. ft. roof and choose Architectural Shingles ($8/sq. ft. installed base). Your roof has a Standard Slope (1.15x multiplier) and requires a Tear-off ($1.50/sq. ft.).
- Base Material/Labor: 2,500 x $8.00 = $20,000
- Pitch Adjustment: $20,000 x 0.15 = $3,000
- Tear-off Cost: 2,500 x $1.50 = $3,750
- Total Estimated Cost: $26,750