How Much Does a New Roof Cost: An Overview

A guide to new roof prices, including pros and cons of popular styles to help you answer, "How much does a new roof cost?" Connect with roofing contractors today.

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Answering the question, "how much does a new roof cost?" isn't as simple as naming a flat figure. The cost of a new roof is one of the widest ranging of all home improvement projects.

New roof prices can fluctuate wildly depending on numerous factors, including features such as skylights and chimneys, as well as the pitch of the roof. A steep roof, despite covering the same amount of square footage of a home, can require twice as much material as a roof with a gentle slope. Likewise, steeper roofs generally cost more for labor. And roofing costs in one area of the country can far exceed prices in other areas. Even the time of year can change roofing costs: generally, installation prices are lowest in early spring.

Therefore, consider any answer to the question "how much does a new roof cost?" as a ballpark figure in an enormous ballpark. Experts recommend that you get as many estimates as possible for the cost of a new roof before you sign the dotted line.

However, contractors may be less likely to give you an estimate if they know you’re casting a wide net in your search for new roof prices. Some experts recommend keeping your window shopping a secret.

NOTE: The lowest estimate for the cost of a new roof isn’t necessarily the best. Make sure any contractor you consider has positive client references, a permanent location, licensing, and insurance.

To skip straight to the estimates, click here!

Certain materials will almost always mean higher new roof prices than others. For example, expect the cost of a new roof with tile to be more than wood shingles. However, heavier and longer-lasting shingles of a low cost material can cost as much or more than the low-end of a more expensive roofing material, such as tile.

There are sometimes other guiding factors such as homeowners’ association rules, local ordinances, and building codes. With some materials, like slate, there might be extra construction that needs to take place.to reinforce the roof.

Some of the costs of roof replacement might include things like rotting in the wooden underlayers of your roof. A thorough inspection will reveal any changes and additional work that needs to be done.

Another expense that might affect your decision to move forward or making certain structural changes is the permitting process. Some work will need few permits, whereas some changes, such as upgrading to slate from asphalt, might require much more extensive permitting and even architectural drawings. All of these things may affect the final costs. A great roofing contractor will help to guide you through all of this.

The following is a rundown of roofing materials pros and cons, with materials ordered from lower to higher roofing costs.

To get more general information about roof shingles prices and replacing roofing, you can check out our roofing prices article here.

How much does a new roof cost?

Asphalt composition shingles

Asphalt Roofing Costs

Asphalt composition shingles are the most popular material in the United States. The cost of a new roof with asphalt is among the lowest of any popular material and they carry a moderate lifespan.

Advantages:

    • Average 20+ year lifespan.
    • Low cost.
    • Easy installation.

Disadvantages:

    • In climates that undergo extreme temperature shifts, shingles can warp from thermal shock.
    • Not necessarily the most attractive style.

How much does a new asphalt roof cost?

    • About $1,500 to $9,000

Metal roofing

Metal Roofing Costs

Metal roofing remains a largely niche material in the U.S., despite it’s enormous popularity in other countries. Metal roofing encompasses a wide range of styles, including aluminum, copper, corrugated iron, metal blends, and galvanized and stainless steel.

Advantages:

    • Extremely durable.
    • Resistant to fire, hail, snow and wind.
    • Lifespan of 20 to 50 years or more.
    • Easy installation.

Disadvantages:

    • More expensive than asphalt composition shingles.
    • Not necessarily the most attractive style, although more color options and pattern designs are available today than in the past.

How much does a new metal roof cost?

    • Basic interlocking steel shingles run from $5,000 to $17,000.
    • Aluminum metal costs between $12,000 and $20,000.
    • Corrosion resistant steel sheets start at $12,000 and go up to about $22,000.
    • Copper and other high-end styles are priced from $25,000 to $40,000.

Wood shingles and shake

Shake Roofing Costs

Wood shingles and shake are cut from Western Red Cedar logs, giving them an attractive, classic appearance. Shingles are machine cut while shake consists of pieces of split wood blocks.

Advantages

    • High durability.
    • Beautiful appearance.
    • Lifespan of 30 to 50 years or more.

Disadvantages

    • High cost.
    • Difficult and expensive installation.

How much does a new wood shingle roof cost?

    • Shingles: $7,000 to $15,000.
    • Shake: $10,000 to $20,000

Tile roofing

Tile roofing includes clay, sand, and concrete. It’s a popular option in the southwestern U.S. courtesy of its natural defense against the sun.

Advantages:

    • Durable against sun damage, fire, rot, and damage from insects.
    • Lifespan of 50 years or more.

Disadvantages:

    • Extremely difficult and expensive installation.
    • Requires professional upkeep every 10 to 20 years to replace underlaying material.
    • Due to its weight, some homes will need extra structural support.

How much does a new tile roof cost?

    • Basic clay tile: $12,000 to $21,000.
    • High end tile: Up to $65,000.

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About the Author

Rachel Wright is an SEO content editor at Reply! with more than 10 years of editing experience. She enjoys interior design and gardening. To share home improvement ideas, find her on Google+.

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