Maintaining a strong, well-built roof is essential. Your roof protects your home and everything inside it from rain, hail, snow, wind and all the other elements Mother Nature sets upon us.
A strong, attractive, well-maintained roof adds great curb appeal to your home whether you plan to sell it or simply when you invite guests to visit. A healthy roof will also provide energy-efficiency for your home, keeping it cooler in the summer and warmer in the colder months.
This is why it is so important to regularly inspect your roof and be prepared to replace it when necessary.
Many people worry that they may not have enough in savings to replace their home’s roof. They may even put off the work. This is a huge mistake as neglecting the issue can lead to an even more costly replacement.
Fortunately, asphalt shingles are one of the most economical and attractive choices for roof replacements. There are a number of factors that impact the cost, including the size and pitch of your roof, labor and materials, where your home is located, as well as other factors such as your chimney and ventilation pipes. On average, however, the cost to replace a roof on most homes runs about $5,350 to $10,700.
Breaking Down the Costs
Size and Pitch
It stands to reason that the larger your roof, the greater the cost of its replacement. In addition, a more steeply pitched roof will cost more to replace than one that is less so. Roofs with a steep pitch require more materials to cover them, and because it is more difficult for workers to move around on them, installation takes longer. In addition, if a roof is severely pitched, added safety equipment may be required.
Labor and Materials
The grade and style of shingles you choose for your project will also impact the price, as will the cost to remove the old shingles (if necessary) and install the new ones. The cost to install new shingles runs about $3.50 to $5.50 per square foot and $3 to $5 per square foot to remove the old layer. On average, labor costs are about 70 percent of this figure.
One advantage of asphalt shingles is that so long as the roof decking below is in good condition, you can install new shingles on top of the old and forgo the cost of removal. If, however, the decking is in poor condition–something that often can happen if a needed replacement is neglected–or if you already have two layers, then the old ones need to be removed.
Location of Your Home
Most asphalt roofs will last 15 to 30 years with warranties based on the grade of shingles you invest in. However, the climate you live in can also impact its longevity. Homes in warmer, more humid climates will likely need to be replaced more frequently than those in cooler climates.
Other Factors
If the roof decking below your shingles is damaged, that too will need to be replaced with an average cost of about $14 to $21 per four by eight foot plywood sheet. Additionally, if you’re experiencing leakage around your chimney, vent pipes, or roof skylight, the flashing around each of these will also likely need replacement at an average cost of about $200 to $500. Local permitting costs will also need to be factored into your end price.
Choose a Qualified Roofing Contractor
If you’re considering replacing your roof, it’s important that you enlist the services of a licensed, insured, roofing contractor known for quality workmanship. Fortunately, most professional installers will provide free quotes. It’s best to get at least two or three.
Look for an installer that inspects your roof thoroughly and listens to your concerns. Be sure to ask to see samples of materials and of their work. Check with your local Better Business Bureau or other professional contractor organizations to see how others in your area viewed their work.
JRC Roofing is a family-owned and operated roofing contractor with over ten years of combined experience in the industry. When it’s time for you to replace your roof, we hope you’ll give us your consideration. We’ll work hard to keep you covered