September 17, 2024

New Roof Cost: The Top 8 Factors

Professional BCM Roofer lining up roof shingles on roof in West Bloomfield Michigan

The roof of your house protects your greatest investment: your home. However, it’s important to understand the various factors that contribute to a new roof cost before you get estimates and move forward with your roofing project.

As a roofing expert for over 20 years, BCM Roofing has identified the top 8 elements that contribute to the overall expense of a new roof, including underlayment, vents and gutters. And by understanding that “a roof” is more than just a single layer of shingles, can also help you make an informed decision when budgeting for your new roof system.

So let’s get start with the main factors of the cost of your new residential roof:

Here are The Top 8 Factors That Influence new Roof Cost

1. Roofing Material Costs

Material

‘The type of new roofing material you choose will likely be the primary factor contributing to the overall cost of your new roof. Common materials include asphalt shingles, metal roofing, wood shakes and slate tiles that come in countless colors, styles, shapes, sizes and performance levels.

Look

The material and color of shingles you choose will have a significant effect on the look of your home, whether you’re aiming to accent your home’s architectural exterior, increase curb appeal for future buyers or save on upkeep and maintenance. Click here to view Shingle Style Gallery.

Purpose

The purpose of shingles is to protect your home and interior roofing system from Michigan’s wide-ranging weather and environmental elements including blue-green algae, hurricane-level winds, radiant summer heat, rain, snow, ice and everything in-between. Depending on your goals, shingles come in different construction qualities and performance levels to resist weather, hail, fire and algae.

Price Range

Asphalt shingles, metal roofing, wood shakes and slate tiles each have their own price range along with lifespan, maintenance and pros and cons.

Asphalt Shingles

On average, the most affordable option with prices ranging from $100 to $200 per square (100 square feet). With colors ranging from black to fawn, asphalt shingles come in many styles varying from traditional 3-tab shingles to the look of rugged wood shakes or elegant, hand-cut European shingles.

Metal Roofing

Typically costs between $300 and $700 per square, but offers longevity and energy efficiency. Metal roofs are exceptionally sturdy, outdoor fire resistant and can withstand extreme weather conditions such as heavy snow, radiant summer heat and wind gusts up to 140 mph.

Wood Shakes

Price ranges from $400 to $700 per square, and can provide a beautiful, natural look. Wood shakes and wood shingles can also make a home warmer in winter and cooler in summer due to being poor conductors of heat. Wood roofing systems can provide many great benefits, but it does require regular maintenance.

Slate

Generally ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 per square, slate offers exceptional longevity and a high-end appearance. Because slate is a natural stone, it has low maintenance requirements and an extremely long lifespan, some lasting hundreds of years.

2. Roof Size and Complexity

The size of your roof directly affects the price. Simply put, larger roofs require more materials and labor, increasing the overall expense. The number of slopes, valleys and angles on the roof are more challenging to install, impacting the roof cost. And if the roof’s design is complex with intricate design, the roof may require specialized labor, adding to the labor costs.

3. Roofing Service Labor Costs

Labor costs for a roof vary depending on the complexity of the job. As well as being licensed and insured, a contractor’s costs can vary depending on experience and reputation. Requiring an established contractor with a history of positive online reviews may sound like overkill, but until you’ve been on the receiving end of a work crew disappearing in the middle of a job, it takes on a whole new meaning.

Experienced roofing contractors typically charge higher rates, but their expertise ensures a quality installation that can save you money in the long-run. Other contributing factors include quality workmanship, customer satisfaction, thorough cleanup and old roofing material removal. Overall, it’s important to obtain multiple quotes from reputable contractors to get a fair roof replacement estimate.

4. Roof Removal

If your existing roof needs to be removed before the new one can be installed, this will add to the overall cost. The removal process involves labor and disposal fees, which can vary depending on the size, layers and type of old roof. On average, roof removal can cost between $1 and $5 per square foot.

5. Underlayment and Accessories

Underlayment is a crucial layer of protection installed beneath the roofing material. The cost of underlayment varies based on the material used (e.g., synthetic, felt). Additional accessories, such as flashing, vents and gutters also contribute to the overall roof cost. These components ensure proper roof ventilation and water drainage, enhancing the roof’s performance and longevity.

6. Roof Pitch

The pitch or steepness of your roof affects the installation process. Steeper roofs are more challenging and hazardous to work on, requiring specialized safety equipment and increasing labor costs. Roofs with a higher pitch may also require more materials, adding to the expense.

7. Location and Permits

Your location can influence roofing costs due to variations in labor rates, material availability and local building codes. And depending on your area’s local regulations, obtaining the necessary permits for a roofing project may also incur fees.

8. Warranty and Insurance

Investing in a quality roof often includes several warranty options. In addition, there may be options for manufacturer warranties for roofing materials or workmanship warranties directly from the contractor to help provide peace of mind and additional protection for your investment.

New Roof Cost Conclusion

From the choice of your roofing material to labor costs and from warranties to building permits, each element plays a crucial role in determining the final price of your home roofing project. And by working with a reputable roofing contractor, you can ensure a positive outcome with a high-quality roof that meets your needs while fitting your budget.

From beginning to end, our team of highly-trained roofing experts will guide you every step of the way, from the roof removal to the cleanup and final inspection.

At BCM Roofing, we’re always happy to give advice or answer any questions about your roofing needs. To get started on your roofing project, contact us today. We look forward to speaking with you!

Jake Jankowski