Regardless of the state of your roof prior to a roofing project, you most likely wonder how the roofing labor cost per square affects your overall price.
Find out how much you can expect to pay depending on the labor cost, renovation type, roof size, and more important factors.
To get started on installing roof shingles, contact your local roofing pros for FREE ESTIMATES!
Average Roof Replacement Cost
On average, you can expect to pay around $7,500 to replace a roof. The general range is between $5,000 and $11,000.
The installation cost can vary from $350 to $550 per roofing square (100 square feet).
Removing an old roof before the replacement can cost an additional $1,500 to $3,500.
When it comes to roof projects, roof replacement is one of the most expensive ones any homeowner can face.
Property owners often can’t even enjoy the pleasure of the new home improvement immediately as they would with a kitchen or bathroom renovation. In fact, with such a project, they make a long-term investment that will protect their home for a long time.
Depending on the material and work quality, roof replacements can last from 35 to 100 years.
Also, homeowners can recoup some of the cost if they decide to sell their homes within a few years. Some estimates say that an average roof replacement can return around 60% of value in real estate transactions.
It’s highly marketable to sell a house with a new roof, and potential buyers find renewed roofing extremely important.
The two main reasons that impact the price are the home’s square footage and the material used for the roofing. But more on that below.
Metal Roofing Labor Cost Per Square
Homeowners who wish to install metal roofing can expect to pay from $800 to $1,500 per roofing square.
Factors Affecting Roofing Cost Per Square Foot
Difference factors affect the cost of roofing projects per square foot. Here’s an overview of the most important ones:
Labor
You can expect up to 60% of the overall cost estimate to go towards labor. On average, the labor cost is from $1.30 up to $3.50 per square foot.
To understand these calculations, you should be familiar with the term “roofing square” as well. A roofing square is equal to 10×10 or 100 square feet of roofing area.
For example, a roof that measures 21,900 feet will require around 22 roofing squares.
In the U.S., most homes have roofs from 20 to 24 roofing squares.
Most roofers will base the packages on roofing square basics. For a roofing square, you can expect a labor quote from $130 to $350.
Damage
Labor costs can also be affected by the extensiveness of roof damage.
Timber rotting under the shingles is an example of how a roof technician’s job can get more difficult and dangerous. This can double the cost of labor.
Weather
Weather conditions like extreme heat or cold can also increase the roofing labor cost per square. If the team has to use protective elements against the weather, it will boost the rate.
Removing Material
Finally, removing old material that should have been replaced a long time ago can also affect the rates. This can include roofs that got reshingled instead of repaired to buy time. The professionals will have to remove the additional layer of shingles and add extra work hours to their schedule.
Roofing Material
Roofing material makes up to 40% of the cost of the roof replacement project.
You can expect to pay from $80 to $1,400 per roofing square for the material.
The price can vary depending on the roof type installed on the property. Typical asphalt shingles are often the most affordable solution, and the more you stray from them, the more you can expect to pay.
Did you know? The world’s oldest roofing materials are clay, stone, and thatch.
Roof Size And Pitch
A roof slope or pitch refers to the angle or steepness of a roof. You can calculate your roof’s pitch by measuring how many inches the structure goes up vertically for every 12 inches that it extends horizontally, expressed as a fraction.
If your roof pitch is outside the 4/12 to 9/12 range, it’s best to leave the roofing job to the professionals.
Roofs that are too steep are harder to replace and take more time to set up.
Flat or low-pitch roofs also require special considerations.
Geographical Location
Where your home is located also affects the overall roofing cost per square.
Certain climates call for specific types of roofing or shingles. Also, the local building codes are different from county to county. Finally, the HOA rules can also increase the cost of such a renovation project.
The Pacific Northwest and Florida have higher roofing costs per square. Florida homes need more robust materials to withstand hurricanes and heat, while the Pacific Northwest roofs need to handle year-round rainfalls.
Roof Accessibility
The height of the home can also increase the roofing price per square.
Single-story homes need less harnessing, less labor time spent climbing up, fewer ladders, and also present a lower risk of injury.
On the other hand, homes with stone walls or huge foundation plantings usually come with a roofing labor cost per square estimate since roof access is limited. The roofers have less place to set up their ladders properly.
Roof Features
Roof features such as bay windows, skylights, or dormer windows can increase roofing costs and expenses.
The same applies to plumbing vents, HVAC openings, and chimneys. Every opening in the roof requires additional waterproofing and flashing cuts, which increases labor.
Roofing Cost by House Size
The cost of the roofing project also depends on the size of the roof.
Replacing a 1,000 square foot house roof costs on average from $3,800 to $5,300.
Replacing a 1,500 square foot house roof costs from $5,300 to $7,800.
Replacing a 2,000 square foot house roof homeowner can expect to pay from $7,600 to $10,700.
Replacing a 2,500 square foot house roof can cost between $8,800 and $12,700 to replace.
Replacing a 3,000 square foot house roof costs from $11,000 to $15,800.
Replacing a 4,000 square foot house roof can cost from $14,000 to $20,000 to replace.
| House Size by Square Foot | Average Price (Roof Shingles) |
|---|---|
| 1,000 Square Feet | $3,800 – $5,300 |
| 1,500 Square Feet | $5,300 – $7,800 |
| 2,200 Square Feet | $7,600 – $10,700 |
| 2,500 Square Feet | $8,800 – $12,700 |
| 3,000 Square Feet | $11,000 – $15,800 |
| 4,000 Square Feet | $14,000 – $20,000 |
Roofing Costs By Material
The type of shingles you use can have a major impact on the roofing cost per square.
As previously mentioned, asphalt shingles are the most affordable choice for most modern-day projects. They’re long-lasting, durable, and have a good lifespan.
Material cost is the biggest decider when forming a roofing square estimate.
Replacing an asphalt shingle roof hardly costs more than $400. However, a square of standing seam copper square can cost you more than $1,250. Cedar shingles cost around $160 on average.
| Roofing Material | Price (for a 2,200-square-foot home) |
|---|---|
| Ashphalt Shingles | $2,200 |
| Stainless Steel | $2,800 |
| Stone or Slate | $13,800 |
| Galvanized Steel | $19,300 |
| Copper | $24,500 |
An important thing to consider when choosing the material is that the more expensive materials also come with a longer lifespan.
Sure, asphalt solutions are long-lasting per se and can serve you for up to 40-50 years. But you can also find shingles that can last more than a lifetime.
By investing in premium materials, you minimize expenses in the long run on roof repairs.
In short, investing in a better-quality product right away will save you a lot of money down the road.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are made from a combination of fiberglass, minerals, and asphalt.
They remain the most popular roofing material across the country. This material is durable, affordable, and easy to set up.
Did you know? Asphalt shingles actually derive from petroleum, and the roofing made from this material is eco-friendly because it can be recycled.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is considered a premium metal, and it’s extremely durable. It also repels rust and corrosion and can last up to 100 years when treated with care.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel is one of the oldest roofing materials in the U.S. The construction is made from a steel core and features zinc coating for added durability levels.
Copper
Homeowners who want to add a visual overhaul to their roof can invest in copper roofing solutions.
Copper is extravagant, lasts longer than the standard shingles, and can completely transform the looks of a home.
Stone or Slate
Stone and slate tiles are a bit more expensive than wood and metal. However, they are very durable against harsh weather conditions and extreme temperatures.
Stone and slate can masterfully withstand small branches and hail impact.
Cost To Replace Roofing vs. Repair
There are different degrees of damage a roof can handle. Sometimes, homeowners have a hard time deciding whether they should repair or replace their roofs.
When in doubt, it’s best to contact a roofing professional to give the final call.
If damage isn’t extensive, it makes more sense to get the repair. Repairing a roof is a much smaller investment (and also more affordable) than replacement.
However, if the damage is significant and poses a hazard to the rest of the property, replacing the whole roof is safer.
Minor roof repairs can cost from $300 to $1,500 for asphalt roofs. More premium materials come with a higher repair price.
As for the roofing labor rate, you can expect to pay around $50.
Here are some of the most common reasons for roof repairs:
Flashing Damage
Flashing is an essential part of the roof. It’s the thin metal strips lying along the roof joints. When they get damaged, the roof can start leaking, which can lead to other issues.
Curling Shingles
Asphalt shingles suffer from wear and tear over time.
The older they get, the higher the chance of them getting curled. Once this happens, water has an easier time entering underneath.
If a section of the roof gets curled, it can be replaced with a new shingle bundle that can cost up to $60.
Pooling Water
Water pooling on the roof can cause immediate damage. This issue needs to be treated right away.
Calculating Roofing Cost For Different Projects
When you calculate the estimate for any roofing project, you should include the following:
- Skylight repairs
- Sheathing
- Flashing replacement
- Soffits
- Removing mold
- Strengthening the frame
- Other unexpected repairs
Different projects will require different cost calculations.
Garage
Replacing a garage roof typically costs $900 to $2,600.
The pitch of the roof, materials, and size can affect the price.
In general, installing a roof for a garage that can fit a single car (around 280 square feet) costs from $1,000 to $2,000.
For 400-square-foot garages, you can pay up to $3,200 for metal roofs.
Shed
Garden shed roof installation can cost up to $3.60 per square foot or $430 for a 10×12 foot shed.
Removing the old roof can cost up to $250, so the total cost could be around $670.
Patio
Installing a roof on a patio costs from $1,020 to $2,500, depending on the materials and size of the patio.
Living room patios that are usually small and installed with asphalt shingles cost around $600. Larger spaces can cost up to $3,500.
Mobile Home
For mobile home roof replacements, you can expect to pay from $1,200 to $4,800 for asphalt solutions.
Metal roofs can cost $1,800 to $9,500, depending on the surface.
Townhouse Roof Replacement
Replacing a townhouse roof measuring 1,000 square feet costs $4,200 to $7,500 on average. Metal roofing options can cost from $9,500 to $13,000.
Travel Trailer Roof Replacement
RVs or travel trailer owners pay on average $280 per linear foot for roof replacement. Class A RV roof replacement can cost from $6,000 to $9,500.
Additional Costs To Replace A Roof
Other than the costs mentioned above, you should keep in mind the additional factors that can increase the price of a roof replacement:
Current Roof Condition
Roof replacement projects for structures that are simply old and require replacement usually don’t come with extra costs.
However, roofs with holes, pest issues, or leaks may have also caused damage to the underlying structure.
Replacing the structural beams or the plywood underlayment comes with additional costs.
Did you know? Wood and shingles are only two of many parts of a roof system. Flashing, insulation barrier, roof deck, and drip edges also take part in the current roof condition assessment.
Partial vs. Full Replacement
Whether your entire roof or a part of it needs replacement will naturally affect the cost of the project.
Some homeowners opt for partial replacements to save money by only fixing the parts that have been badly damaged. However, this option isn’t recommended, and it often results in the same cost, given that all permits, removal costs, and similar work costs are the same regardless of the roof area that’s replaced.
Inspection Cost
In some areas, inspectors need to visit the roof on multiple occasions during the renovation project.
For example, they need to make sure that flashing is according to local codes before shingles get installed.
Also, multiple inspections can result in problems and delays with the schedule. This can impact the labor cost estimate.
Material Disposal
Homeowners that perform full roof replacement often have to dispose of large quantities of materials.
Local laws require a specific procedure to dispose of these items as they may be hazardous.
Your contractor may have to bring a dumpster or charge material disposal fees to get this part right.
Average Cost To Tear Off And Replace Roof
You can expect to pay $11,500 to $14,800 to tear off and replace your roof. This is based on homes with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, little roof complexity, a walkable roof pitch, and asphalt shingles.
Different conditions, materials, and roof access can increase this price.
Average Price Of Replacing Your Roof vs. Repairing
Nationwide, people spend around $8,000 on average for roof replacements.
Roof repair price largely depends on the level of damage and type of repair. However, the national average is $1,000. Small repairs can cost no more than $400.
Keep in mind that even multiple roof repairs might not get the roof in the same state as a replaced one.
Roofing Warranty
Roofing warranties often seem complicated, but their basics are very simple.
Three main types include standard, workmanship, and extended manufacturer’s warranty.
The standard manufacturer warranty is the most common option and includes a basic limited lifetime warranty.
Contractor workmanship warranties are offered by contractors, and they have varying lengths. While some can last a lifetime, others can last much shorter.
Extended manufacturer warranties are the most comprehensive ones and are only available for complete roof system installations.
DIY Roof Replacement vs. Hiring A Roofer
DIY roof replacement can be a good idea for homeowners who already have experience doing extensive roofing work or have to replace small roofs.
However, a roofing contractor is the best course of action. Not only will you have peace of mind, but also a premium service and potentially a more long-lasting roof installed by experts.
How Much Do Most Roofers Charge Per Square?
On average, most roofing companies charge from $3.30 to $5.40 per square foot. This equals $330 to $540 per 100 square feet for asphalt shingle roofs.
How Much Is Labor For A Square of Shingles?
A square foot of shingles comes with a labor cost from $1.30 to $3.30.
You can expect to pay more or less depending on the type of shingles, roof condition, roof accessibility, weather conditions, and similar factors.
How Much Roofing Do I Need?
To calculate the amount of roofing material you need, you first need to calculate your roof’s square footage:
- Measure the width and length of each plane on your roof, including the dormers.
- Multiply the length times width.
- Add each plane’s square footage together.
In roofing, the roof surfaces are measured in squares.
To figure out the number of shingles you’ll need for the roof, divide the total roof surface in square feet by 100.
So for a 2,500-square feet roof, you’ll need 25 roofing squares of shingles.
Remember to add at least 10% to that number due to the waste factor.
Will A Roofer Replace The Fascia And Soffit During My Roofing Project?
Yes, if you hire a licensed roofing contractor, they will most likely handle fascia and soffit repair and replacement.
If your specific project requirement calls for either of the two actions, you can expect a roofing contractor to see to it.
Did you know? The word “soffit” comes from the French language and means “something fixed underneath.”
How Much Does Home Depot Roofing Cost Per Square?
If you want to shop for roofing material at Home Depot, you’ll see that they list the shingle prices in bundles. To calculate how many bundles you need, multiply the roofing square number of your roof by three.
A single bundle for standard asphalt shingles costs $40.50 at the time of writing this article. The bundle covers 33.33 square feet.
How Long Does A Roof Last?
The longevity of a roof depends on various factors. The roofing material, quality of installation, weather conditions, and maintenance play a huge role.
On average, an asphalt roof should be able to last up to 40-50 years with proper care.
Slate and stainless steel roofs are some of the most durable and can last up to 100 years.
What Is The Best Type Of Roofing Material For Hot Climates?
Terracotta roofing is the best material for homes in hot climates.
For example, Florida, Texas, and Arizona homes often have these roofs formed by placing curved tiles together. Their structure absorbs the excess heat and makes room for air to flow between the tiles.
When you invest in the wrong roofing material, it can result in trapping the heat and making the interior even hotter.
If you currently have an asphalt roof and would like to replace it with a terracotta one, it’s crucial to consult a roofing professional who can assess whether your current roof structure can support the new material.
Terracotta shingles are much heavier than asphalt ones.
What Is The Best Type Of Roofing Material For Cold Climates?
Roofs in cold climates take a lot of beating from ice, snow, high winds, and the cold.
Slate tile roofs have proven to be the most efficient at protecting the structure and have a lifespan of almost one century.
Metal roofs are a more affordable yet equally durable option for cold climates. Snow and ice slide off of metal instead of adhering to the roof, lowering maintenance and preventing damage.
Metal roofs also come in larger sheets with fewer connection slots for water to seep through.
Using Your Home’s Equity As An Easy Way to Fund Your New Roof
Home equity loans or lines of credit are beneficial for roof repairs. They usually come with a lower interest rate compared to most other financing solutions for roof replacement or repair. This can be explained by the fact that the home is used as collateral for backing the loan.
This gives the lender less exposure to risk in case of default on payments.
Make The Most Out Of Your Roofing Project
Roof replacement is one of the most expensive home projects you can have.
If you’re ready for the endeavor, you should do it right. That’s why it’s important to contact different roofing contractors and get estimates on their roofing labor cost per square to have a clearer picture of the price for your specific project.
Until you get more specific projections for your particular roof replacement case, the estimates from this article can help you plan your budget.
