One of the biggest concerns that homeowners have when replacing their roof is cost. With the average cost of a roof at about $6,500, a roof replacement is a major investment that should only be attempted by experienced professionals. As costs can greatly vary based on a number of factors, it is important to understand how to price a roof replacement. By shopping around, scheduling your roof replacement during the off-season, and taking advantage of any homeowners’ insurance perks, you can get your roof replaced while still saving a few bucks in the process.
Pricing Factors
With every roof is different both in size, angle and geographic location, the cost to replace a roof can vary considerably. The size and pitch of the roof can greatly impact the cost of a roof replacement, with larger, steeper roofs generally costing more to replace. Larger, steep roofs are slightly more labor intensive and often require more workers and the use of additional safety equipment. A larger roof size also requires more materials and a lengthier project timeline, which also equates to a heftier bill. If your roof has valleys, peaks, skylights, or chimneys, these areas will require more materials and attention.
Roof accessibility is also a factor that contractors consider when providing homeowners with a cost estimate. Some roofs can be difficult to access, especially in neighborhoods that have minimal space between houses. Trees, equipment, and other items around the foundation of the house can make it difficult to set up a work area, as well as safely transport materials from the ground to the roof.
Finally, the materials used makes a huge difference in the price of a roof replacement. For example, tile and metal roofs cost more than asphalt shingles, which are the most commonly used and affordable option. However, if you are looking for something more unique, like wood or slate, you can expect to pay significantly more in materials. You will also need to factor in the cost to remove your existing roof. If there is more than one layer of materials, the cost of removal will be higher.
Geographic Location
Where you live plays a vital role in the cost of your roof replacement. If you live in a more expensive part of the country, you can expect the price to install your new roof to be higher than more affordable areas. You will also want to consider your local climate. Homeowners that reside in areas that receive high winds, heavy rainfall, or snow and ice will typically require stronger roofing materials than homeowners who live in areas that receive nice weather year-round. Contractor techniques can also vary from place to place which can affect the cost of a roof replacement.
Cost of Roofing Materials
According to HomeAdvise, the average cost of a new roof can range from $5,000 to $10,000. That said, the cost is majorly based on the type of materials used to build the roof. The most common roofing materials and their average cost per square of material includes:
- Asphalt: $70 to $160 per square
- Metal: $120 to $900 per square
- Clay Tile: $300 to $600 per square
- Wood: $250 to $600 per square
- Concrete Tile: $150 to $250 per square
- Plastic Polymer: $400 to $1,200 per square
- Slate: $500 to $1,700 per square
If your home has a flat roof, you will need to take a different approach to your roof replacement. Most building codes do not allow homeowners with flat roofs to use traditional roofing materials. Instead, flat roofs require rolled roofing materials designed to keep moisture from seeping through edges and seams. There are several options with EPDM rubber membrane being the most economical choice.
PVC is another option to consider. The material can reflect up to 90 percent of solar heat and has an average lifespan of about 25 years. TPO material is also used on flat roofs and is highly resistant to damage, energy efficient, and is virtually leak-free due to its hot air welded seams.
Where to Find Savings
Buying a new roof is not cheap. Fortunately, there are a number of ways you can save on your roof replacement. Start by having your roof inspected by a professional. Although you may think that your roof needs to be completely replaced, the problem may not be as bad as you think. In some cases, a roof repair job may be an adequate option for homeowners on a tight budget. If your roof does not need to be replaced, a contractor can provide an estimate after a detailed roof inspection.
Next, you will want to determine if your roof is under warranty. If you have recently purchased your home, a warranty may exist which could help you pay for the cost of a replacement. Also take the time to speak with your insurance carrier. If your roof was damaged by a peril covered in your homeowner’s insurance policy, part or all of the cost of replacement may be covered by your insurance company. If the damage is not covered by your policy, look at other financing options, such as a home equity loan.
There are a number of other ways you can reduce the price of your roof replacement, such as scheduling the replacement for spring or late winter. As roofers tend to be busiest during the summer and fall months, scheduling your project during the off-season could result in a discount. In some cases, an overlay should be considered which involves installing new shingles over existing ones. This results in fewer labor hours billed. However, know that an overlay can shorten or void the manufacturer’s warranty on roofing materials.
Schedule a Roof Evaluation
Depending on the type of roof on your home, it may need to be replaced as often as every 10 years. Knowing how to price a roof replacement can help ensure that you are financially prepared for when this time comes. For more information or to schedule a free roof evaluation, contact the professional roof replacement contractors at Beyond Exteriors today.