How Much Does a New Roof Cost? Roof Size, Materials & More

An old roof can be a source of constant worry. Every time it rains, you might find yourself checking the ceilings for a new water spot. The time comes for an upgrade, and it can be really exciting to know you can finally get your attic back from those pesky buckets or even protect your brand-new siding from damage.

You also want to have a clear budget. New roof installations involve a ton of materials, different sizes, and a few other factors that can really affect the final cost. This breakdown will help you figure out how to get yourself the most cost-efficient roof, or how much you'll be spending if you decide to go all out and get the roof you deserve!

The Size of Your Roof Is the #1 Factor

It’s a numbers game; a larger, sprawling roof on a big home is going to need more materials and more time to complete than a roof on a smaller, cozier house. The bigger the footprint, the higher the base price will be for your project.

A roofer will measure your roof’s total square footage. This measurement is the foundation for almost every other part of the cost calculation, from how many bundles of shingles are needed to the amount of labor required for the tear-off and new installation.

It’s All About the Materials

Here’s where you have the most control over the look and the price of your new roof. The material you pick will have the biggest impact on the final number on your invoice and the long-term performance of your roof.

Asphalt Shingles: The Go-To Choice

Asphalt shingles are popular for a reason. They offer a fantastic balance of looks, longevity, and affordability. Architectural shingles, a popular choice today, provide your roof with a beautiful, dimensional appearance and are incredibly durable. They come in a wide range of colors to match your home’s style, making them a versatile pick for most homeowners.

Metal Roofing: The Long-Term Option

If you're thinking of your roof as a serious long-term investment, a metal roof is worth a look. The upfront cost is higher than that of asphalt, but so is its lifespan. A standing-seam metal roof can last 50 years or more. They are amazing at shedding snow and rain and can even help lower your cooling bills by reflecting sunlight. It’s a modern look that offers serious protection.

Cedar, Slate, and Other Premium Options

For a truly distinctive home, materials like cedar shake or slate offer a level of beauty that is hard to match. These are premium materials with a price to match. They require skilled installers, but the payoff is a stunning roof that can become a defining feature of your property for a very, very long time.

The Angle of Attack / The Roof Pitch

You might not think about it, but the steepness of your roof plays a huge role in the cost. We call this the roof pitch. A roof with a very steep pitch is more challenging and takes longer for a crew to work on. It requires additional safety precautions and more setup, which adds to the labor cost.

On the other hand, a very low-slope or flat roof might require different types of materials or installation techniques to prevent a leak from standing water. Every angle presents a unique situation for a roofer.

Other Important Factors That Add Up

The main surface of your roof is one thing, but all the little details can also affect the final price.

Features like a chimney, a skylight, or vents need special attention. Each of these requires careful work with flashing —the metal strips that seal these joints — to make certain you have a watertight seal. The more complex your roof's geometry is, the more labor is involved.

You’ll also need to decide on a full tear-off of your old roof or an overlay. Removing the old layers adds to the cost, but it's the only way to inspect the decking underneath for any water damage. Many times, your local building code will require a full tear-off. Finding and fixing hidden issues during your roof repairs is key to the health of your new investment.

The Company You Choose Makes a Difference

Going with a solid roofing company is all about getting the job done right. A quality team works efficiently and safely, helping make sure you aren’t wasting that hard-earned cash on a job that will need to be fixed in a few years. An experienced crew knows how to handle the challenges of any roof and can spot potential problems before they get serious. They show up on time, do clean work, and complete the project so your life gets back to normal quickly. It's the kind of peace of mind that you can't neglect and is a big part of the overall value of your project.

Start Your New Roofing Project Today!

At Lemus Remodeling Group, our team provides all types of roofing services. We handle new roof installations and even large-scale commercial roofs for businesses in Chester, Montgomery, and Bucks Counties in Pennsylvania. We are here to guide you to the best solution for your home.

We also do fantastic window installations and exterior door installations to complete your home’s new look. Give us a call, and let’s talk about your next project!