There’s more to this answer than you might think.
Asking how much a roof costs is a little like saying, “How much does a car cost?” You could find a car on the side of the road for $100 that’s housing a family of field mice, or you could buy an exotic model for six figures (or more!).
The cost of a roof is hugely dependent on a variety of factors that we’ll dig into in a moment. The key, just like when you buy a car, is to go into the process with your eyes wide open. Do your research and get to know your local roofing professionals; finding someone you can trust to guide you through the process is invaluable.
What Impacts the Cost of a Roof Replacement?
[Traditional Exterior by Norwich Architects & Building Designers Smith & Vansant Architects PC]
Here are a few of the factors that will influence the cost of your roof:
- Removal of old roofing – The time involved in removing and potentially disposing of your old roof material is a major consideration
- Multiple layers of roofing – Sometimes a project begins with the discovery that there is layer upon layer of old materials to deal with
- Repairs to the roof sheathing – These are the panels of wood or sheeting that are connected to the framework of your roof. If they are damaged, repairs are a crucial part of ensuring a healthy overall system
- Material – Asphalt and metal are two of the most popular options, but there is a huge range of roofing material to consider based on your budget and stylistic goals. We personally have had a lot of success with high-quality asphalt shingles from Owens Corning
- Accessibility
- Pitch – Steep roof systems are more expensive to replace because of the need for specialized safety equipment
- Unique features – Dormers, valleys, walls, etc.
- Warranties – A warranty may add an initial expense, but it also offers a lot of peace of mind
Is It Cheaper to Replace Your Roof Yourself? Not Necessarily…
DIY (do-it-yourself) projects are more popular than ever today, and helpful websites like Youtube are arming homeowners with fantastic information and tutorials.
While it is possible to replace your roof yourself, it’s important to think through risk vs. reward in a scenario like this one.
The reward, of course, is that your project could go smoothly and you might save some money initially. The risk, on the other hand, lies in the fact that roofing is a time-consuming, potentially dangerous process that is a lot more complicated than many homeowners realize. It’s not just a layer of shingles, but rather an elaborate, multi-faceted system. Using low-quality tools and products can create a hazard for your home, and the risk (there’s that word again) of needed larger-scale repairs and replacement down the road.
Taking it back to our car comparison, it may technically be possible for you to rebuild your own transmission, but do you have the time, tools, and motivation to give it a shot?
What Is the Average Cost of a Roof Replacement?
Roofers often charge per “roofing square,” which is a 10’ by 10’ section, or 100 square feet. In other words, a 2,000 square foot roof would be broken down into 20 roofing squares.
Because every roof is a different size and has unique factors that impact pricing, we really can’t give you a definitive pricing answer without taking a look at your particular home.
To help give you a basic idea, however, we can say that the average roof replacement cost for a 1,200-1,400 square foot home in the Maryland is in the region of $4 a square foot to $6 a square foot. These figures include the use of asphalt shingles which are the most economical. If you have your heart set on a metal roof, that figure can double. If you love slate, it can grow exponentially from there.
How Long Do Asphalt Shingles Last?
Comparing roofing materials is a huge subject that deserves an article of its own. Since we’re discussing cost, however, we do need to point out that asphalt shingles are the lowest-priced option. And, that lower price point is not an indicator of lower quality.
There has been a huge focus in recent years on metal roofs in particular, and a growing perception that metal is eternal and asphalt is a sub-par choice. In reality, the development of quality asphalt products has continued to march onward, giving us (and you) some truly incredible options.
We mentioned Owens Corning roofing products above. Available in a huge variety of colors and styles, these shingles are extremely durable, long-lasting, and available with warranties that will leave you sleeping soundly for decades. At RoofPRO, we have actually partnered with Owens Corning to offer you their Limited Lifetime, 50-year warranty. Whether you live in our region or not, that will at least give you an idea of the longevity that you can expect from a certified, expertly-installed roofing system.
Find a Roofing Professional You Can Trust
Our final bit of advice is to take your time finding a roofer. And, do it now. Don’t wait until there is a leak or some sort of catastrophe that has you cramped for time. Talk to friends, take advantage of online resources, and research the roofers in your neighborhood. Finding someone who takes pride in their work is just as valuable as using the right material to protect your home.
