It's tempting to let your roof go for another year, even as you're crossing your fingers for good luck. But if you're concerned that your shingles won't hold up, it's best to replace them as soon as your budget will allow. Where a new roof costs $5,000 to $10,000, a neglected roof that fails could cost $2,000 to $7,500 in water damage and mold remediation, plus the cost of replacement. Don't delay — fall is an ideal time to complete this project, so your home is secure against winter weather and temperatures.
To prepare a budget, it's helpful to know what factors most into the cost of a roofing project: the type of roofing material you choose, the condition and layout of your roof, and the removal of old materials.
Roofing materials
Asphalt shingles: $1,700 to $8,400
Asphalt is the most popular and affordable roofing material, and it comes in a number of colors.
Composite shingles: $5,500 to $20,000
Composite shingles are made of synthetic products to imitate other materials, such as slate or wood shake, and they're available at a fraction of the cost.
Wood shingles and shakes: $7,000 to $19,000
Wood shingles are typically made from cedar and last around 25 years. They're a timeless option for a historic home or an upscale aesthetic.
Slate roofing: $15,000 to $25,000
Slate is one of the most durable and low-maintenance roofing materials available. If you have the budget and want an upscale look, this might be the material for you.
Metal roofing: $5,000 to $12,000
Metal roofing is durable, energy efficient and fire resistant and comes in a variety of styles. It can last 40 to 70 years and save you up to 40 percent on your utility bills.
Tile or concrete roofing: $7,000 to $30,000
Tile or concrete roofing is a perfect option for an upscale aesthetic or for Mission or Spanish Colonial style homes. It's fire-resistant and can last over 50 years.
Roof condition and layout
Size
The larger your roof, the more material you'll need and the more you'll pay for labor. Roofing pros calculate labor using an increment known as a "square," which is 100 square feet of roof surface, rather than by the hour.
Pitch
Your roof's pitch can directly affect the cost of your project. If it's especially steep, installation will require more safety gear and labor. It could also require special or extra underlayment in order to satisfy a safe fire rating. Plus, certain roofing materials aren't compatible with steep or flat pitches.
Condition
If your roof isn't in good condition, expect added costs for repair and replacement.
Adornments
Any features that protrude from or contribute to the integrity of the roof can influence your cost. These include chimneys, attic fans, skylights and gutters.
Removal
Removing the existing roofing materials could add $500 to $3,000 to your project. Various factors will influence that cost, including the type of material, difficulty of the work and disposal process.
A roof replacement can do wonders to boost curb appeal, add resale value and defend your home against the elements. To make sure you're getting the ideal material, and to get the highest-quality installation at the right price, seek multiple quotes from roofing pros in your area. And before you hire, be sure to read company reviews and talk to pros' references.
Lauren White is a reporter for HomeAdvisor, an online marketplace connecting homeowners with trusted service professionals to complete home projects. Visit HomeAdvisor.com
