Homeowner guide
How much does a roof replacement cost?
Here are typical national price ranges, the factors that move the number up or down, and how to compare quotes so you're not overpaying.
Quick answer: A full roof replacement in the U.S. averages about $9,500, and most jobs fall between about $5,800 and $46,000. That works out to roughly $4 to $11 per square foot. Source: Angi data, as reported by NerdWallet.
These are national ballpark figures. Your price depends on your roof and your market, and the only way to know for sure is a written quote after an inspection.
What drives the cost
- Roof size. Roofers price by the "square" (100 sq ft of roof). Your roof area is usually larger than your home's floor area.
- Material. Asphalt shingles are the most affordable. Metal, wood shakes, clay or concrete tile and slate cost more but can last longer.
- Pitch and complexity. Steep roofs, multiple levels, chimneys, skylights and valleys take more labor. NerdWallet notes steep pitches can add roughly $1,000 to $3,000.
- Tear-off and repairs. Removing old layers and replacing rotted decking adds cost. Ask how decking repairs are priced before you sign.
- Labor and location. Labor is often more than half the bill and is higher in high-cost areas and after big storms.
- Permits and warranty. Many areas require a permit. Extended manufacturer warranties are optional extras.
Common roofing materials
| Material | Cost | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Asphalt shingle | $ | Most common in the U.S. and the most budget-friendly. |
| Metal | $$ | Long-lasting and sheds snow and rain well. Costs more up front. |
| Wood shake | $$ | Natural look. Needs more upkeep and may face fire-code limits. |
| Clay or concrete tile | $$$ | Popular in warm climates. Heavy, so the structure must support it. |
| Slate | $$$$ | Premium and very long-lived. Needs a specialist installer. |
How to compare quotes
- Get at least two or three written quotes for a full replacement.
- Make sure each one covers the same scope: tear-off, underlayment, flashing, vents, drip edge, cleanup and disposal.
- Ask how decking replacement is priced (per sheet is common).
- Compare warranties: the manufacturer's warranty on materials and the contractor's warranty on workmanship.
- Be wary of a quote far below the others. It may leave things out.
Can insurance pay for it?
Homeowners insurance may cover damage from a sudden event like hail or wind, but usually not wear and tear from age. Coverage depends on your policy and your insurer's decision. A roofer can document damage, but no one can promise approval. See what to do after storm damage.
Frequently asked questions
What's the average cost to replace a roof?
Angi's figures, as reported by NerdWallet, put the national average around $9,500, with most jobs between about $5,800 and $46,000 depending on size, material and location.
How much does a roof cost per square foot?
About $4 to $11 per square foot for a typical replacement, according to Angi data cited by NerdWallet. Premium materials like slate and clay tile cost more.
Why are my quotes so different?
Quotes vary with the materials, how many layers come off, whether decking needs replacing, ventilation and flashing work, the warranty offered, and the contractor's overhead. Ask each roofer to itemize so you compare the same scope.
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