As a homeowner with little to no roofing knowledge, planning to install a new roof is challenging. You will likely face difficulties making a budget estimate for the project, choosing suitable materials, and getting the right roofer for the project.

Having served in the U.S. roofing industry since 1967, Guaranteed Roofing, a family-owned and operated company, has put together an easy-to-follow guide that gets you started the right way!

Determining the Cost of New Roof

Given the importance, budgeting your financial readiness to start and complete a roofing project should come first before other things like buying roofing materials and finding an expert to install your roof.

So how much is a new roof? A standard roofing project costs roughly $5,100 to $11,000. However, the actual figure depends on the roofing material, type of roof, labor, location, roof size, and the roofing contractor’s rates. 

Here is a breakdown of how each factor dictates new roof costs.

Labor

On average, U.S. homeowners spend $1.50 to $3 per square foot on roofing labor. Roof rates vary depending on the weather conditions and the existing roof’s condition. You spend more if the contractor has to remove old roofing material, repair worn-out timber, or work under extreme weather.

Roofing Materials

Roofing materials take 40% of the overall new roof installation cost. On average, you would spend around $5 to $100 to get roofing materials that cover an area of one square foot. 

Again, the price for roofing materials fluctuates depending on the material you pick — asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and wood shingles cost less than stainless steel, copper, and stone.

Roof Pitch

Roof pitch is another factor that determines the cost of new roof installation. High-pitch roofs cost $5-$12 per square foot, low slope roofs cost $4.5-$7 per square foot, and conventional sloped roofs cost $3.50 to $9. The high-pitched roofs cost more since they are labor intensive and require high expertise to install.

Geographical Location

New roof installation cost is generally expensive in some states and affordable in others. For example, installing a new roof in Florida costs more than you would spend to put up a similar roof in other states. That is because Florida’s weather conditions limit you to using costly roofing materials that can withstand hurricanes, hailstorms, and heavy winds. 

Number of Stories

Contractors charge less to put up a roof on a single-story building since the project requires little climbing up and down ladders to get the job done. On the contrary, roofing contractors charge higher rates for commercial buildings with multiple stories since the project takes more time, effort, and skill.

Choosing the Right Roofing Materials

While you can use any roofing material for your home or rental, Guaranteed Roofing recommends that you consider materials with excellent longevity and the ability to protect against the elements. Such materials will help you avoid dealing with costly repairs a few years after getting a new roof installed. 

Since no one material fits all houses, the following ideas should help you get the most suitable material for your home.

Roof Pitch

Different roofing materials are meant for diverse roof slopes. For instance, asphalt shingles, cement tiles, and wood shingles are suitable for an average roof pitch. TPO roofing membrane and PVC membrane roof are ideal for flat roofs since they provide excellent resistance to leaks. 

So, before buying a roofing material, ensure it is suitable for your roof’s slope.

Weather Endurance

If you reside in snowy areas like Alaska, get materials that can insulate your home from extreme temperatures alongside enduring the weight of snow. Some excellent materials for snowy climates are slate, metal roofing, synthetic tiles, or fiberglass asphalt shingles.

Energy Efficiency

Modern roofing materials don’t just protect against elements. But, they also enhance your home’s energy efficiency. Therefore, if you want to slash down your energy bills or improve your indoor comfort, purchase energy-efficient materials like clay, concrete, and slate tiles.

Durability

Since roofing materials have different lifespans, get materials that can offer services for as long as you want. Slate and clay tiles provide the best longevity as they last up to 100 years. Metal roofing, wood shake, and asphalt shingles have an average lifespan — they can last for 15 to 50 years.

Getting a Qualified Roofing Company for New Roof Installation

While several roofing companies would be available for your roofing project, not all will deliver the results you want. To avoid frustrations, get roofers with years of experience, good online reviews, excellent reputation, and essential licensing & insurance. 

A roofing contractor with such qualities will help install a roof that protects your home from elements for years.

Get Started With Free Consultation

If you are facing challenges estimating the budget, choosing materials, and finding an expert to install the roof, contact Guaranteed Roofing for a free consultation on all matters regarding new roof installation. Fill out and submit our consultation form, and we will contact you shortly.