How Much Does a Shingle Roof Cost?
Hello, my friend, hello again; today we come together to talk about How Much Does a Shingle Roof Cost? and hope the blog can help you.
Shingle roofs are versatile, durable, and affordable compared to other roofing materials. A typical shingle roof cost falls within the range of $4,500 to $20,000, with an average cost of $9,000.
Highlights
- The typical cost range to install a shingle roof is from $4,500 to $20,000, with an average cost of $9,000.
- The exact cost will vary depending on several factors, such as roof size and slope, shingle material and brand, labor costs, and geographic location.
- A shingle roof has many benefits, including versatility, affordability, flexibility, fire and wind resistance, and algae resistance. A shingle roof also offers sound protection, numerous design and color options, and easy installation and maintenance.
- Roofing is a difficult and potentially dangerous project that is not advisable for the average homeowner to complete themselves. A roofing professional has the skills, experience, and equipment to install a shingle roof properly and efficiently.
Find trusted local pros for any home project
Replacing or repairing a roof isn’t exactly the most exciting home improvement project, but it’s sometimes necessary. A roof may need to be replaced due to old age or storm damage or even aesthetic reasons. Leaving a bad roof unchecked can lead to significant financial and safety risks for homeowners.
When it is time for a replacement or even a new roof for a new build, a shingle roof is one option for homeowners to consider. Shingle roofs are versatile, energy efficient, and durable when properly installed and maintained. They’re also fairly affordable; according to Angi, shingle roof installations typically cost between $4,500 and $20,000, or an average cost of $9,000, depending on a roof’s size and pitch, shingle materials, and local labor costs.
This guide will cover more information about the different factors that drive shingle roof costs, the types of shingle roofs homeowners can choose from, the benefits of choosing a shingle roof, the choice between DIY or hiring a professional, tips and tricks for saving on shingle roof installation, and advice on hiring the right professional for the job.
Factors in Calculating Shingle Roof Cost
The price of a new shingle roof can vary widely depending on a number of factors; a smaller roof may cost closer to the low end of the cost range, while a large, complicated roof could cost $20,000 or more to install. What follows is a closer look at some of the biggest factors that influence shingle roof cost.
Roof Size
Size plays an essential part in determining the cost of roof shingle installation. Installation prices typically range from $4 to $30 per square foot, depending on material choice. Asphalt shingles tend to cost less, while slate and copper options can cost significantly more.
Generally speaking, installing shingles on a larger roof requires more materials and labor, driving up installation costs. However, a smaller home doesn’t always mean a less expensive shingle roof cost. This is because roof square footage is calculated differently than interior square footage, as the calculation must consider design and pitch. Materials are usually sold and installed per square, which is equivalent to 100 square feet. The cost of shingles per the number of roof squares is listed in the table below.
| Number of Squares | Square Footage | Cost Range (Materials and Installation) |
| 12 | 1,200 | $4,800 to $36,000 |
| 15 | 1,500 | $6,000 to $45,000 |
| 20 | 2,000 | $8,000 to $60,000 |
| 25 | 2,500 | $10,000 to $75,000 |
| 35 | 3,500 | $14,000 to $105,000 |
Roof Slope
The slope of a roof is an essential consideration when homeowners are estimating the cost of installing shingles, with steeply pitched roofs being more challenging and dangerous to work on than flatter ones. A roofing company will often charge more to install roof shingles on jobs that involve more skill, risk, and equipment. For example, a contractor is likely to charge more when working on a two-story home than on a single-story home.
On the upside, steeply pitched roofs typically outlast flatter designs, as water tends to run off more easily on steep roofs and they accumulate less debris. This reduces the risk of water damage and algae growth. Steeper roofs can also help keep homes cooler during the summer. With the extended lifespan and the lower cooling bills, the additional costs that come with installing a steeper roof can often be made up elsewhere.
Shingle Material
While all shingle materials are practical, they’re not all equal in terms of characteristics and performance. Each variety has distinct qualities and pricing points that separate it from the others. Asphalt shingles, for example, are one of the most cost-effective, long-lasting, and simple-to-install shingle materials available. Asphalt shingles generally range in price from $1 to $1.50 per square foot.
Metal shingle roofs tend to cost more, ranging from $3 to $18 per square foot. While more expensive, they tend to last longer than asphalt shingles and require less maintenance. Clay and slate shingles tend to cost the most, typically priced from $8 to $18 per square foot. While they are remarkably durable and stylish, their high cost makes them less popular among homeowners on a budget.
Shingle Brand
The brand of shingles used for a roofing project can have an enormous impact on the total cost. While certain brands are renowned for their longevity and durability, others may not hold up as well over time.
Homeowners are advised not to shop by price alone but rather by value. The lowest-priced option may end up costing more in the end with repairs and premature replacement. On the other hand, the most expensive may not be the top-performing option. The following table shows the price ranges of some top shingle brands for homeowners to consider.
| Brand | Price per Square Foot (Material Only) |
| CertainTeed’s Landmark | $1.20 to $1.70 |
| GAF Timberline | $1.15 to $1.25 |
| IKO | $1 to $1.20 |
| Malarkey | $1.30 to $2 |
| Owens Corning | $1.37 to $2.81 |
| Tamko | $0.90 to $2.30 |
Labor
Labor costs play a substantial role in determining the total cost of installing shingles roofing; in fact, labor expenses account for as much as 70 percent of shingle roof costs.
Labor costs associated with installing a roof can typically range from $30 to $80 per hour. However, roofing labor cost per square can fluctuate based on several factors, including roofer experience, workmanship quality, and location of the home. Roofs with steep pitches or complex designs may incur additional labor costs during installation as well.
While many roofers charge by the hour, some may charge a flat fee per square for installation. Others prefer to charge by the day or by the project. It’s recommended that a homeowner receive several roofing shingle prices for materials and labor to ensure they’re getting the best value.
Need a new roof?
Get a top-rated local pro to replace it. Get free, no-commitment project estimates from roofers near you.
Geographic Location
The cost of installing a shingle roof depends heavily on its location, as an area’s cost of living can influence labor and material costs. Different locations experience different weather patterns, and extreme weather conditions may require more robust roofing materials that can come with a higher price tag. Certain materials may be less available than others, creating the potential for transportation costs. Even local tax rates can heavily influence the final cost of shingling a roof.
Additionally, areas with a high demand for roofing services may have higher labor costs, as roofing contractors can charge a premium for their services when there’s a higher local demand. Finally, if an area doesn’t have enough qualified roofing contractors, a homeowner may find themselves paying for transportation and travel for a roofing crew. The following table shows the average price ranges for shingle roof installation in several states.
| State | Price Range |
| Arizona | $5,600 to $10,000 |
| California | $6,400 to $15,400 |
| Colorado | $6,300 to $12,300 |
| Florida | $8,000 to $16,500 |
| Maryland | $4,500 to $9,500 |
| Michigan | $6,550 to $11,900 |
| New Jersey | $5,800 to $10,000 |
| Texas | $5,800 to $10,600 |
| Washington | $7,000 to $13,800 |
Additional Costs and Considerations
There are some shingle roof costs that go beyond the basic materials and installation. While not all of the following scenarios and considerations are guaranteed, it helps for homeowners to understand how each can influence shingle roof costs so that they can avoid any budget-busting surprises.
New vs. Replacement Roof
A roof installation can be considered a new roof or a replacement. A new roof refers to installations on new homes that have never had a roof before. Roof replacement costs can take into account factors such as old roof removal and roof repairs in addition to shingle installation—these additional factors could make replacement cost more than new roof installation. However, replacing an existing roof could be more affordable than installing a new roof, since the underlying structure is already in place.
Permits
Permits may be required by local governments for new roof installation or reroofing projects. They can cost as much as $500 in some areas, which can increase the total cost of a roofing project.
Although permits may seem like unnecessary expenses, they ensure all roofing work meets safety and building code requirements. Completing a roofing project without a permit can result in fines or legal issues. The good news is that most roofing contractors work the cost and legwork to secure a permit into their fees, so homeowners rarely have to manage permit pulling on their own.
Old Shingle Removal
Before homeowners install a new shingle roof, it’s often necessary to remove the old shingles first. Leaving old shingles in place can create an uneven roof. New shingles can also begin to wear more quickly or not adhere properly if an existing roof is left in place.
Removal involves stripping off the roof’s existing shingles and inspecting beneath for damage or deterioration. Cost estimates for old shingle removal range from $1 to $5 per square foot and can total anywhere from $1,000 to $1,500. Contractors usually charge hourly rates between $40 and $80 to remove existing shingles from a roof.
In some cases, it may be possible to install new shingles over existing ones. This is called a roof-over. However, while a roof-over may save on removal costs, it can add weight to a roof that may not be safe or appropriate in all situations.
Roof Repairs
A shingle roof replacement cost can be higher than anticipated if any repairs are required before the installation can begin.
Possible repairs could include the following:
- repairing or replacing damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
- fixing leaks in the roof decking or underlayment
- repairing or replacing damaged gutters or downspouts
- fixing roof sagging or structural damage
- removing moss or algae growth and repairing any resulting damage
- repairing or replacing damaged soffit or fascia boards
- addressing any ventilation issues, such as adding or repairing roof vents or exhaust fans
While some homes may require only minor repairs, others could require extensive ones that significantly increase the costs of the job. When budgeting for a new roof, homeowners will always need to consider its age and condition, as roof repair costs are more likely on an older or worn-down roof.
Roof Reinforcement
Roof reinforcement is the process of strengthening an existing roof structure to accommodate the weight of a new shingle roof, usually by adding support beams or columns. An existing home’s roof may need reinforcement if it is damaged, has deteriorated, or does not meet local building codes.
Roof reinforcement certainly adds additional expenses to a shingle roof installation, depending on extent of the damage. However, skipping roof reinforcement could pose serious safety concerns and possibly cause a replacement to fail.
When installing a new shingle roof, either on their own or through a roofing company, homeowners will want to consult a qualified roof inspector and budget for roof inspection costs to determine whether additional reinforcement is required.
Warranties
A warranty from a shingle manufacturer or roof installer can provide a homeowner with additional peace of mind regarding the quality and performance standards of a product or service.
Warranties provide protection from defects in materials and craftsmanship as well as any issues during installation. Sometimes warranties are included with the purchase of materials or the selection of services. For example, manufacturers tend to offer warranties on their shingles as part of the purchase price, though it’s important to note that these warranties can be voided if installation is not done by a professional.
Some warranties are charged as a separate and optional fee. Before signing off on any warranty agreement, homeowners will want to carefully read and understand its terms, as some warranties may contain exclusions or limitations that severely reduce their coverage.
Types of Shingle Roofs
Homeowners can choose from several types of shingles when installing a roof. Each type has its own unique features and benefits that influence the average cost to reshingle roofs. Understanding the difference between roof shingle types can help homeowners decide which is best for their needs and budget. The following shows the costs per square foot, per bundle, and per roof square for each type of shingle roofing material.
| Material Type | Cost per Square Foot | Cost per Bundle | Cost per Roof Square |
| Asphalt | $1 to $1.50 | $30 to $50 | $100 to $150 |
| Cedar wood shake | $4.88 | $160 | $480 |
| Clay tiles | $8 to $18 | $270 to $600 | $800 to $1,800 |
| Composite | $7.50 to $13 | N/A | $750 to $1,300 |
| Metal | $3 to $18 | $100 to $600 | $300 to $1,800 |
| Slate | $8 to $18 | N/A | $800 to $1,800 |
| Solar | $22 | N/A | $2,200 |
Asphalt
Asphalt shingles consist of fiberglass mats that have been covered with asphalt and topped with mineral grains for color and texture. Asphalt shingles come in three varieties: three-tab, architectural, and dimensional.
- Three-tab shingles are the most basic and affordable option, costing around $100 per square. They have a flat appearance with three cutouts, giving the illusion of three separate pieces.
- Architectural shingles cost slightly more at $100 to $150 per square and feature an extra layer of lamination for a contoured appearance.
- Dimensional shingles, or 3D shingles, mimic the look of high-end wood shingles with their highly sculpted shape. They are the most expensive type of asphalt shingle, costing an average of $480 per square.
When homeowners are choosing among the different types of asphalt shingles, factors to consider include budget, desired appearance, and wind resistance. While three-tab shingles are the most budget-friendly, architectural shingles offer a more contoured appearance and slightly more durability. Dimensional shingles are the most expensive but provide the most realistic wood shake appearance.
Cedar Wood Shake
Cedar wood shake shingles are a popular roofing choice known for their rustic beauty and unique character. These shingles are typically made from white cedar or Eastern white cedar and cost an average of $480 per square or $160 per bundle.
One of the benefits of cedar wood shake shingles is their natural resistance to insects and decay. However, they do require regular maintenance to avoid rot, cracks, algae growth, and leaks. Homeowners must clean these shingles regularly and apply a wood preservative every two to five years. Additionally, cedar wood shake shingles are not ideal for areas with high humidity, as moisture can cause them to warp or split.
Despite the maintenance requirements, many homeowners choose cedar wood shake shingles for their aesthetic appeal and natural durability.
Clay Tiles
Clay tiles offer a classic and sophisticated option when homeowners are selecting roof shingles, adding charm and character to a home. Crafted from natural clay and formed into interlocking tiles, they have a distinctive curved shape that creates a striking appearance.
Clay tiles offer many advantages, with durability being their key selling point. Proper care can extend their lifespan up to 100 years. Clay tiles are also fire-resistant and can withstand severe weather conditions like heavy rainfall and strong winds without succumbing to damage.
Clay tiles may offer many advantages. However, their initial installation costs can be steep, with an estimated average installation cost of around $700 per 100 square feet. Furthermore, clay tiles are heavy, requiring extra support on a roof to accommodate them safely. Walking on them may also be hazardous and cause damage.
Not sure which type of shingles are best for your home?
Talk to a top-rated local pro. Get free, no-commitment project estimates from roofers near you.