How much does it cost to replace your roof?

Nov 23, 2020
.
5
Min of reading

Getting a new roof is a pretty simple process once you've dealt with all the administrative portion (if you are getting a new roof through your insurance.) However, there are certain factors that directly affect the cost. Shingles, nails, ventilation, and flashing are some of these factors that increase the value of a roof replacement project. If you want to find out how much will it cost to get a new roof, keep on reading as we dissect the average cost of a roof replacement job, and help you understand why it can cost so much.

Getting a new roof is a pretty simple process once you've dealt with all the administrative portion (if you are getting a new roof through your insurance.) However, there are certain factors that directly affect the cost. Shingles, nails, ventilation, and flashing are some of these factors that increase the value of a roof replacement project. If you want to find out how much will it cost to get a new roof, keep on reading as we dissect the average cost of a roof replacement job, and help you understand why it can cost so much.

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costs to repair or replace your roof

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Getting a new roof is a pretty simple process once you've dealt with all the administrative portion (if you are getting a new roof through your insurance.) However, there are certain factors that directly affect the cost. Shingles, nails, ventilation, and flashing are some of these factors that increase the value of a roof replacement project. If you want to find out how much will it cost to get a new roof, keep on reading as we dissect the average cost of a roof replacement job, and help you understand why it can cost so much.




How much does a new roof cost? 


As mentioned at the beginning of this article, there are several factors that affect the overall cost of a roof replacement job. Specialized home website, HomeAdvisor puts the range between $5.000 and $10.000. Other sites claim roof replacements can be as low $1200 and as high as $30,000. Roofing companies charge between $3.00 and $6.00 per square foot. The building materials, size, and the level of damage also influenced the overall cost. 


While expensive roofs can sometimes be questioned by the customer, choosing a cheap option is not a good idea either. You'll end up with a low-quality roof built with questionable materials. This often results in you needing to replace your roof sooner rather than later and could possibly get you in trouble with your insurance company.


Before discussing specifics, let's clear the air about certain things first, especially when it comes to how contractors estimate their budgets. Firstly, materials are measured in "squares." This their own unique system, which they created by measuring the length by the width of the roof area.

Cost of a Roof Reshingle. 


HomeGuide sets the national average cost of reshingle a roof at $7,000. But it can vary depending on certain factors such as roof size, materials, and even the city where the house is. If you are dealing with minor damage, you may want to decide against having the whole roof reshingled and save time and money in the process. The cost of repairing or replacing the damaged shingles will depend on how many will need to be changed and the materials. Website Roofing Calculator sets the national shingle repair average cost between $600 and $700.


Cost to Replace 3-tab Asphalt Shingles.


Of all the factors influencing the cost of a roof replacement, materials have a bigger impact. 3-tab asphalt shingles are the cheapest roof replacement material, the cost of a square range between $100 and $200. However, due to how thin they are, they can succumb to wind damage quite easily.


Bear in mind that according to recent building codes, shingles must withstand a minimum of 90 MPH winds, and 3-tab asphalt shingles do not meet this requirement. If your contractor recommends using them, remember this information, and perhaps consider finding another roofing company.


Cost to replace Architectural Asphalt Shingles. 


Another common type of asphalt shingles is the laminated or dimensional. They are made out of stronger, high-quality materials, making them more durable than 3-tab asphalt shingles, and they last longer. The average installation cost is between $300 and $500 per square. Premium dimensional shingles are valued between $400 and $700 per square. 

Shingles aren't the only element influencing the overall cost of a roof replacement job. There are other materials, and labor also has a heavy impact. Let's take a look at what other factors sum up the roof replacement cost.





Other Elements to take into account when calculating the cost of a roof replacement. 


  • Nails.

They may seem like a small and simple thing, but a lot of them are needed to keep the roof in place. A single box of nails can cost up to $30. Depending on how many boxes are needed, they add up at the bottom line. 


  • Underlayment. 

Underlayment is an elemental part of the roof. It is what protects it against water damage. Additionally, it keeps your home safe from leaks, mold, and any other problems water may cause. This is especially important in Texas during times which rain is part of the unpredictable weather cycle.


  • Ice and Water Barrier.

Another "must-have" is a high-grade ice and water barrier on your roof. It provides an extra layer of protection to the the many layers of the roof including the shingles against water and ice. Professionals recommend adding two layers of this barrier to ensure your roof is protected from water damage from storms, snow, and ice.


  • Starter Shingles.

Another essential item needed to protect your roof from are starter shingles. They are placed right under the main shingles. It redirects the water off the roof, protecting the seams from water. 


  • Ventilation. 

Like the rest of the house, the roof also needs to have proper ventilation. Without it, hot air has no way out of the attic, creating the perfect environment for mold to grow. Ventilation helps to prevent all sorts of things, as well as extending the useful life of the roof and reducing energy costs.


  • Roof Flashing. 

Roof flashing protects the roof joints and other vulnerable parts of the roof, preventing water from reaching them. Roof flashing can be seen in the area where the shingles and the chimney meet. 


  • Drip Edge. 

The drip edge is that area of the roof extending beyond the fascia. This is an essential part of the roof, and it cannot get overlooked or cut off. The drip edge guides the water towards the gutters. 


Roof Replacement Labor.


Now that we have pointed out the cost of the materials needed for a roof replacement job, it's time to add up the most important element, the manual labor. This adds up, up to 60% of the total cost. If you find a company that is charging you less, be sure to check them out before hiring them, look for online reviews, reputation, and everything else you can find. Be sure to check out our list of things to look out for when hiring a roofing contractor.



Is it a Good Investment? 

roof replace


Despite the high cost of having your roof replaced, it is actually a good investment. A brand new roof, built with high-quality materials and following all building codes, can last up to 20 years and increase your home's market value between $10.000 and $20.000. 

It's no secret that this can not only have a profound impact on the value of your home, but it can also protect your home from future damage!


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