The short answer: The average roof replacement cost for most homes falls between $5,000 and $15,000, with some projects reaching $25,000 or higher. The final price depends on your roof size, the roofing material you choose, labor costs in your area, and the complexity of your roof.
But here’s what makes this question tricky: no two roofing projects are identical. A 1,500 square foot ranch home with a simple roof line and standard asphalt shingles will cost significantly less than a 3,000 square foot home with steep slopes, multiple dormers, and premium materials like metal roofing or tile.
Understanding the biggest factors that influence roof replacement cost helps you budget realistically, compare quotes effectively, and avoid surprises when your roofing project begins. Let’s break down what actually drives the price of a new roof and what you can expect to pay.
How Roof Size Affects Your Total Cost
The most straightforward factor in any roof replacement project is square footage. Roofing contractors measure roofs in “roofing squares,” with each square covering 100 square feet. A larger roof requires more materials and longer labor time, which directly increases your total cost.
For context, a home with 2,000 square feet of living space typically has a roof measuring 2,200 to 2,800 square feet, depending on the roof pitch and overhangs. That translates to 22 to 28 roofing squares.
Here’s a general breakdown by roof size:
- Small roof (1,000-1,500 sq ft): $4,000-$8,000
- Average roof (1,500-2,500 sq ft): $6,000-$12,000
- Larger roof (2,500-3,500 sq ft): $10,000-$18,000
- Large roof (3,500+ sq ft): $15,000-$30,000+
These ranges assume standard asphalt shingle installation. Premium materials like metal roofing or tile roofing will push costs toward the higher end regardless of roof size.
Comparing Costs Across Different Roofing Materials
The roofing material you select is one of the biggest factors affecting your final bill. Here’s what you can expect to pay per square foot installed for popular options:
Asphalt Shingles
Standard 3-tab shingles run $3.50 to $5.50 per square foot, making them the most affordable option for most homeowners. Architectural shingles, which offer better longevity and aesthetic appeal, cost $4.50 to $7.00 per square foot. For a 2,000 square foot roof, that works out to roughly $7,000-$14,000 total for just materials.
Metal Roofing
A metal roof costs $7 to $15 per square foot depending on the style and metal type. Standing seam metal roofing sits at the higher cost end, while metal shingles are more affordable. The higher upfront investment pays off through energy efficiency savings and a lifespan of 40-70 years.
Tile and Slate
Tile roofing and slate roof installations are premium options with prices ranging from $10 to $30 per square foot. A tile roof offers exceptional longevity (50-100 years) and performs well in severe weather, but the higher cost puts it out of reach for many budgets.
Wood Shake
Wood shake roofing falls in the mid-range at $6 to $10 per square foot. It provides a distinctive natural look but requires more maintenance than other roofing materials.
Flat Roof Systems
For homes with flat or low-slope roofs, materials like TPO, EPDM, or modified bitumen typically cost $4 to $10 per square foot.
Labor Costs and What Drives Them Up
Labor typically accounts for 40% to 60% of your total roof replacement cost. Several factors influence what you’ll pay for installation:
Roof Pitch and Steep Slopes
Steeper roofs require additional safety equipment, specialized techniques, and more time. A roof with a 6:12 pitch or higher will come with higher labor costs than a walkable roof with a gentle slope.
Roof Complexity
Multiple valleys, dormers, skylights, chimneys, and irregular shapes all add to the labor time. Each penetration requires careful flashing work to prevent future leaks. Simple rectangular roofs with minimal features cost less to install.
Removing the Old Roof
Before your new roof goes on, the old roof needs to come off. Standard tear-off and disposal adds $1 to $3 per square foot. If your home has multiple layers of old shingles or heavier materials like tile, expect this cost to increase.
Repairs to the Roof Deck
Once the old roof is removed, your roofing contractor may discover damaged decking that needs replacement. Rotted or water-damaged sections add to both materials and labor. Getting an accurate estimate after initial inspection helps avoid surprises, but some issues only become visible during tear-off.
Seasonal Timing
The summer months and early winter tend to be peak seasons for roofing contractors, which can affect both scheduling and pricing. If your timeline is flexible, booking during slower periods might help with costs.
Why Coastal Georgia and South Carolina Homeowners Should Pay Attention
Living along the coast means your roof faces challenges that inland homes don’t deal with. Weather conditions in our region, including humidity, salt air, and the threat of tropical storms, can affect both the lifespan of your roof and the materials best suited for your home.
Severe weather events like hurricanes and tropical storms cause storm damage that ranges from missing shingles to complete roof failure. In fact, weather-related disasters cost billions annually across the United States, with roofing damage accounting for a significant portion of those losses. Investing in quality materials and proper installation from an experienced roofing contractor protects your home when weather conditions turn dangerous.
Salt air accelerates corrosion on certain materials, making material selection especially important for homes close to the coast. Metal roofing with proper coatings and quality asphalt shingles rated for high winds tend to perform well in our climate.
Roof Repair vs. Full Roof Replacement: Which Makes Sense?
Not every roofing issue requires a full roof replacement. Sometimes a minor repair is all you need. Here’s how to think about the decision:
When repair makes sense:
- Your roof is less than 15 years old
- Damage is limited to a small area
- You’re dealing with a few missing shingles after a storm
- The roof deck underneath is still solid
When replacement makes sense:
- Your roof is approaching or past its expected lifespan
- Multiple areas show damage or wear
- You’re making repeated repairs that add up
- A major repair would cost 30% or more of a new roof
- The roof deck has widespread water damage
If storm damage is involved, filing an insurance claim may offset much of your roof replacement cost. A professional inspection can document the damage and help you understand what your homeowners policy covers.
Getting an Accurate Estimate for Your Project
The best way to understand your actual costs is to get an accurate estimate from a qualified roofing contractor. When comparing quotes, make sure each one includes the same scope:
- Complete tear-off and disposal of the old roof
- All roofing materials (shingles, underlayment, flashing, ridge vents)
- Labor for installation
- Permits if required in your area
- Cleanup and debris removal
- Warranty information
Be cautious of quotes that seem dramatically lower than others. That often signals shortcuts in materials or installation practices that will cost you more in the long run through premature failure or roof repair needs.
Planning Your Roof Replacement Project
Once you understand the costs involved, a few practical steps help the process go smoothly:
Get an estimate from DBM Roofing. A quote from a reputable contractor gives you a realistic picture of what your roofing project should cost.
Ask about warranties. Quality roofing contractors stand behind their work. At DBM Roofing, we’re a GAF Master Elite contractor, which means we can offer some of the strongest warranties in the industry.
Consider long-term value. A new roof isn’t just about today’s cost. Premium materials and quality installation may cost more upfront but deliver better value over 20, 30, or even 50 years.
Don’t wait too long. An old roof that’s failing can lead to water damage inside your home, which creates additional expenses beyond just the roof itself.
Get Your Free Estimate Today
Understanding how much to replace a roof helps you budget effectively and make informed decisions about your home. The average roof replacement cost varies based on roof size, materials, labor, and complexity, but getting a personalized quote gives you the clearest picture.
DBM Roofing has spent over a decade serving homeowners throughout Savannah, Richmond Hill, Brunswick, Statesboro, Hinesville, Charleston, Mount Pleasant, and surrounding areas. We provide honest assessments, transparent pricing, and quality workmanship on every roof installation we complete.
Ready to find out what your roof replacement project will cost? Contact us for a free estimate and get the answers you need to move forward with confidence.