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If you are looking to install a new roof, the budget might be the first thing on your mind.
A roof installation is no small task, and you certainly don’t want to cut corners or you may be looking at another roof replacement soon in the future. But how do you estimate roofing costs?
While a roofing contractor or professional may be able to give you a more accurate estimate of your final roofing price, it helps to understand the different factors and variables which go into your costs.
No Roof Is Identical
It is not easy to pin an average price on a roofing installment or replacement. Your home may look very different than the national average and you have different budgets and needs.
Below, we have listed some of the factors that will contribute to a major price shift in your overall roofing costs.
These can help you to have a better idea of what your final price tag may be.
Geographical Location
The area where you live may impact your overall price. If your area sees a lot of storms and temperature fluctuations, you may be better off purchasing more durable materials.
In addition, materials may cost different prices in different locations, roofing rates may be higher or lower, permit requirements may differ, and so on.
For homeowners in Calgary roofing may vary in price because of the weather extremes that the local area tends to see. This includes hailstorms, cold snaps, and high winds.
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The installation of Supports
If your old roof has damaged trusses or rafters, they may need to be removed and new ones may be reinstalled.
This is particularly important for your new roof as heavier materials will require additional supports to prevent them from sagging or falling down.
If there is damage to your trusses/rafters and reinforcement is required, you may see additional costs.
The Square Footage of your Roof
The more roofing there is to do, the more your costs will be as there will be more materials, the job will take longer, and there will overall be more labor involved.
If you own a particularly large home, you can expect to pay more for your roofing installation or replacement.
The Slope/Slant of Your Roof
As your roofing professionals will be working directly atop your roof, safety is always the main priority.
If your roof has a particularly steep slant, your roofers may need to take additional precautions and use safety equipment.
This can add more steps and more time to your overall project, increasing the total cost. Some steeper roofs may even need the addition of an underlayment.
Old Roof Removal
If your old roof is in disarray or in poor condition, chances are you will need to remove it.
If your roof is made from metal, even if it is in good condition, there is a high likelihood that it will need to be stripped down before any new roofing can be installed.
In some cases, asphalt shingles may be installed overtop of your old ones, but it’s a good idea to ask your contractor what the cost of a roof removal would be so you can avoid any unexpected surprises when it comes to the final price.
The Materials your Roof is Made Of
You may have the option of several roofing materials, all of which will considerably impact the longevity, appearance, and cost of your roof.
You can expect to pay more for a durable roofing material that will last years and years into the future, and vice versa for flimsy, fewer sound shingles or matter.
You may also have an appearance in mind for your end product that can contribute to your material choice one way or another.
Whatever your choice is, here are some of the average costs of the more common roofing materials:
Asphalt
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material as they also happen to be one of the more affordable choices.
You may expect to pay anywhere between $3-6/sq.ft for your roofing, but the final cost will depend on your geographical location and other factors.
Metal
Metal roofing is a great choice if durability is your aim as they can resist incredibly high winds, thunderstorms, and hail.
Being non-combustible, metal roofing is also fireproof. For all these benefits, metal roofing doesn’t come cheap at around $7-9/sq.ft.
Slate
Slate is a popular choice for its elegant appearance and typically sits in well with a more “classic” looking home.
However, the slate is relatively heavy and may need additional support. Slate roofing is on the higher end of the spectrum costing upwards of $20/sq.ft.
Concrete
Concrete tile boasts the lifespan and durability of other premium materials while providing homeowners with the flexibility to mimic other appealing materials.
Despite the extra weight, concrete tiles typically don’t need any extravagant supports to remain stable. They can cost between $6-10/sq.ft.
Clay
Clay can be a great choice for a romantic or European look. It can be a great option for more modern-looking homes too! Clay can withstand moisture and fire with a life expectancy of over 100 years.
However, there are drawbacks as clay is relatively heavy and needs additional reinforcement.
Clay is on the pricier end of roofing materials, standing between the ranges of $12-18/sq.ft.
Wood
Wood shakes/shingles are great for a more traditional home but can be on the fragile end.
They are also in need of regular maintenance to prevent mold growth, insect colonization, and water damage.
Their longevity is highly dependent on your ability to regularly inspect them. You may expect to pay between $4-7/sq.ft. for shingles and $6-9/sq.ft. for shakes.
The Bottom Line
There are so many factors that affect the overall cost of your roofing installation or replacement job.
The best way to have the most accurate estimation of your roofing job is to get a quote from your roofing contractor.
If you have a set budget in mind, you will want to discuss options with your contractor to see how you can make it work.
