Roofs are meant to be replaced over a period of time. Since it is your home’s first line of defense against harsh forces of nature, it is just expected to deteriorate to the point that you need to have it replaced. According to studies, a homeowner is most likely to experience roof replacement at least once in his lifetime.

While roof replacements are expensive and could take a lot of effort, it does ensure long term benefits. It’s a good option for customers planning to keep their property for an extended period. It also presents an opportunity to inspect the deck for necessary repairs. But, how much does roof replacement projects cost exactly? It is hard to pinpoint one specific amount since a lot of varying factors should be considered.

Roof size

The size of your roof is one of the most important factors of the whole roofing project. Contractors say that the cost to replace a roof corresponds to the dimensions of the roof, which the roofer measures in 100-square-foot subsection called roofing squares.

Logically, a 1,500-square-foot roof (15 roofing squares) costs less to replace than a 2,000-square-foot roof (20 roofing squares) with the same materials due to the fact that the larger roof needs more materials and a more intensive labor for its completion.

Pitch

Your roof’s pitch is the steepness of the angle of your roof or its slope. Some roofs have a high pitch, while others have a low pitch or no pitch at all, following a more modernist architectural type. This factor ultimately tells a lot about the difficulty for it to be changed. The more difficult it is for your roofer, the higher you shall pay.

A roof that is more steep can be harder to walk on, requiring more safety measures such as harnesses and other equipment. Since the contractors put in more effort in changing it, the price can be higher compared to those with lower slopes. Another factor is accessibility to the roof. Can a truck get that close to the house? Tearing off a heavier roof can also increase labor costs.

Materials used

The type of roofing material is a major factor in the cost of a roof replacement. Most homeowners choose between shingles made from asphalt or wood, tiles, or metal sheets. Each type of roofing material has its own set of price points.

Experts say that your choice of roofing materials often depends on your locality, as much as on your own personal taste.  Roof pitch or the angle affects the kind of roofing shingles you can use. Of course, the number of layers of the tiles or shingles to be removed and installed can be a determinant of price too. You will be also paying for your roofers’ time. The more layers of tiles there is, the longer it will take to finish the job.

  • Asphalt Shingles- Asphalt shingles are popular because they are low in cost, readily available and come in a variety of colors and styles.
  • Clay and Concrete Tiles- Clay and concrete tiles are very durable, given their hefty weight. Because of this, a professional should be the one to install it. When it comes to price, concrete tiles are versatile and are less expensive than genuine clay, but also have a heavy weight.
  • Metal Tiles- For more modern houses, metal roofing is more suited, especially for bungalows, cabins, contemporary and cottage-style homes. More than the sleek and strong vibe it gives to the structure, it is also very resistant to extreme weather conditions. You also have the option to choose between panels and shingles. This can be on the pricier side when it comes to installation.
  • Wood Shingles- Wood shakes are handmade and rougher-looking than wood shingles, which are usually cut by machine, making it more complicated to install, increasing the labor fee for professionals.
  • Synthetic Roofing Products-

Roofing made of rubber, plastic, and polymer are now available in the market, giving homeowners the color, look and texture of natural materials like slate and wood. Your location

The prices of the materials and the charge of contractors may vary by state or region.

Other cost factors:

Water damage and molds can also add to the final costs of a roofing project. Significant water damage can also change the project from a roofing repair to a replacement.

Another factor that can affect the price is whether your home has chimneys or skylights. Having these features can increase the difficulty of the project, adding to the labor of the roofer. The charges may vary but it may range from $200 to $500, while repairing it around the skylight can average between $300 and $500.

 

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