How Much Does a New Roof Cost? A Guide for Homeowners
Roof replacement is a significant investment. Understanding the costs involved is crucial for homeowners planning for this essential upgrade. The total price of a new roof varies based on multiple factors, including the type of shingles, additional materials and labor costs. Location also plays a major role in determining overall expenses, with prices fluctuating across different regions and cities in the U.S. and Canada.
This guide breaks down roofing material costs, regional pricing variations and key considerations to help you make an informed decision about your roof replacement.
Roofing Materials and Costs
The total cost of your roof replacement depends on the type of shingle you choose. Most asphalt shingles (excluding additional roof components) range between $100 and $300 per square (comprising 100 square feet), depending on manufactured quality and style of shingle. Let’s take a look at some roofing types cost comparisons.
Designer Shingles
Also called premium shingles, designer shingles have the same two-layer composition as architectural shingles, but their design is refined to offer a more premium look. Often trying to replicate other materials, like cedar shakes and slate tiles, premium shingles offer these unique aesthetics without the drawbacks of higher roofing material prices or limited durability.
Carrying the pinnacle of design and performance, designer shingles naturally end up on the higher end of shingle costs per square.
Performance Shingles
Performance shingles are designed to provide ultimate peace of mind for the weather-conscious homeowner. These shingles generally feature higher impact resistance ratings against hail and tear-resistant nailing surfaces to better withstand high winds.
These shingles are more than function over form — homeowners can enjoy high definition colors and boost curb appeal with shingles that are designed for durability and style. Similar to premium shingles, performance shingles will lean towards the higher end of roofing material prices.
Laminate Shingles
Laminate shingles, also known as dimensional shingles, feature thick, two-layer construction. Originally designed for enhanced aesthetics and visual thickness, these shingles are not cut into identical shapes. There are alternating areas of single and double layers, adding dimension to your roof. These shingles will generally cost less than premium or performance shingles, though pricing may vary depending on other materials used and where you live.
Traditional Shingles
Traditional shingles, also known as 3-tab shingles or strip shingles, generally have a fiberglass mat core and self-sealing properties. While traditional shingles used to be monotone, most of today’s shingles combine several shades for a more aesthetically pleasing look. Traditional shingles are the more budget friendly options for roof replacements.
Additional Pricing Factors
Aside from the shingles that cover the majority of your roof, other materials and variables contribute to the average roof replacement cost.
Additional Roofing Components
Roof decks are the foundation of your roof. Contractors usually only need to replace a few panels or planks that show visible signs of wear or rot when installing a new roof deck. Severe damage may require replacing the entire roof deck.
Roof underlayment is laid on your roof’s deck, providing an additional layer of protection against moisture, ice and wind.
Starter strip shingles are used on the edge of your roof. They are the first shingles to get installed, providing a protective layer on your roof to help prevent moisture from getting under the shingles that hang on the edges and to help prevent wind uplift by securing the first layer of shingles.
Hip and ridge cap shingles are the shingles that go over the joints and corners of your roof, providing essential protection to help prevent moisture from getting through at the point where two roof planes meet.
Project Variables
The style of home can drastically change the price to replace a roof. A cottage home with a simpler roof landscape will be easier and cheaper to replace than an architectural home with several different peaks, slopes, heights, and valleys. The landscaping surrounding the home is also a factor to consider, especially if it makes accessing the roof a challenge.
Home renovations vs rebuilds can also change how expensive a roof replacement will be. Taking off shingles and putting new ones on in a renovation is a pretty straightforward process. Managing shingle replacement on a rebuild can be more complicated and expensive, especially if you’re changing the structure of your roof deck.
Roof Replacement in the U.S.
Just as median house prices in the U.S. vary drastically from state to state, roof replacement costs will also differ. As a general rule, a roof replacement in the city or metro area can increase in price from the rest of the state due to HOA-designated shingles and other factors.
Here’s a breakdown of how much you might expect to pay in a few different states in the U.S. All prices are based on asphalt shingle costs.
Florida
The great state of Florida, with its mild winters and hot, humid summers, sees a lot of heavy rain that can put significant stress on a roof.
The cost to replace a roof in Florida typically ranges from $4,000 to $16,000 USD, but factors like hurricane-resistant materials, building codes and high demand in major cities can drive prices higher. In cities like Orlando, Miami and Tampa, prices tend to be on the higher end, with the new roof cost in Orlando reaching $15,000 to $30,000 USD.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania features colder climates, with rain and snow throughout the winter and a warm, humid climate in the summer. Heavy rain and snow storms are fairly common.
In Pennsylvania, expect to pay between $6,000 and $21,000 USD for a roof replacement. The roof replacement cost in Philadelphia tends to be on the higher end, sometimes reaching up to $30,000 USD for larger homes or premium materials.
Illinois
Illinois experiences a mix of heavy snow, strong winds and summer storms. The roof replacement cost in Chicago is usually higher than in other parts of the state, with prices ranging from $9,000 to $31,000 USD due to labor and material expenses in the city. The rest of the state should expect lower prices, ranging from $6,000 to $16,000 USD.
Texas
Texas is a massive state with varying climates, from humid regions near Houston to the drier areas of West Texas. The per square ft roofing cost in Houston, Texas is typically around $4 to $8 per square foot, leading to total replacement costs of around $7,000 to $26,000 USD. Meanwhile, the roof replacement cost in Austin, TX is slightly higher, with totals ranging from $9,000 to $31,000 USD.
California
California homes face different challenges, from coastal weather in the Bay Area to extreme heat in Los Angeles and the rest of Southern California. Roof replacement costs in California range widely from $8,000 to $31,000 USD, depending on location and material choices.
Roof Replacement in Canada
Canada features much colder climates than their neighbor to the south, meaning roofs have to endure a lot more intensity from weather conditions. Regardless, the same truth from the U.S. roof pricing trends applies to Canada — it all depends on location. The minimum cost of living in Canada varies drastically from B.C. to Newfoundland. Let’s take a look at roof replacement costs in Canada by contrasting a few of its major cities.
Vancouver
Vancouver’s rainy climate and coastal weather conditions make durable, moisture-resistant roofing essential. The roof replacement cost in B.C. typically ranges from $7,000 to $26,000 CAD, with prices varying based on materials and labor costs. The cost of a roof replacement Vancouver homeowners face can be on the higher end of the spectrum.
Calgary
Calgary experiences extreme weather fluctuations, from freezing winters with heavy snow and Chinook winds to summer hailstorms, which can cause significant roof damage. The roof replacement cost Calgary homeowners can expect typically falls between $6,000 and $21,000 CAD, depending on factors like roof size, material and labor.
Toronto
Toronto’s climate features hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters, requiring roofing materials that can handle both temperature extremes and moisture exposure. The roof replacement cost in Toronto ranges from $7,000 to $31,000 CAD, with the price influenced by home size, material choice and labor expenses.
Montreal
Montreal’s harsh winters, heavy snowfall and ice accumulation put significant strain on roofs, making durability a top priority. Roof replacement costs in the city typically range from $6,000 to $26,000 CAD, depending on material and roof complexity.
How to Choose a Roofing Contractor
A great way to make sure you’re getting the right estimate and fair pricing on your new roof is to find the right contractor. Here are some tips to make that process easier.
Reviews
Check online on third-party review sites to get an unbiased opinion of a contractor’s work. Also ask around to friends and coworkers to see if they have any roofing company recommendations.
Licenses and Insurance
Reputable roofing companies should all be licensed and insured. Ask for proof that verifies their licenses are current and insurance is valid.
Please note that not every state in the U.S. nor every province and territory in Canada requires roofers licensing. Check if your state requires a roofing license before you ask.
Take Advantage of Your Roof Warranty
Checking your roof shingle warranty is a great way to potentially offset the cost when trying to finance your roof replacement. Your roofer may have provided a warranty for their installation. If the roof fails because of faulty installation, your roofer may be required to repair it.
Manufacturers provide warranties for defects in the materials. If your roof fails as a result of a manufacturing defect, you may be entitled to compensation for repairs or replacement of defective shingles. Make sure to thoroughly inspect your warranty to fully understand what is and isn’t covered.
Combine your warranty compensation with any coverage from your homeowners insurance and you can significantly reduce the amount of financing required from other sources.
Make a Smart Investment in Your Roof Replacement
A new roof is one of the most important investments you can make for your home, providing protection and curb appeal. Use this guide to find the confidence required to pick the right roof and be sure to reach out to your local contractor with any questions you may have along the way.
