A new roof costs $15,439 on average, but prices can range from $6,885–$23,993 depending on your chosen materials, your roof’s complexity, and your location. Since our 2026 survey of 1,000 homeowners nationwide showed that asphalt is the most popular roofing material, we based our estimates on a 2,000-square-foot asphalt shingle roof.
A new roof is a major financial commitment, and choosing the right materials and contractor can help you protect the value of your investment. Read our guide for more details on new roof costs and tips for selecting the right contractor.
Key Takeaways
- Most residential roofs range from 1,000–2,000 square feet in size, and asphalt is the most common type of roofing material. We recommend budgeting around $5,117 per 1,000 square feet of asphalt shingles for a roof replacement.
- Costs for a 1,500-square-foot roof vary widely, from $5,202–$18,059, depending on the roofing material and your location. Comparatively, a 2,000-square-foot roof can cost between $6,885 and $23,993.
- Nearly 79% of our 2026 survey respondents said their final roofing estimate was about what they expected to pay.
Roof Replacement Cost
Use our calculator to estimate the cost of your new roof.
Your Estimated Roof Replacement Cost:
Clicking “Get Your Estimate” submits your data to All Star Pros, which will process your data in accordance with the All Star Pros Privacy Policy.
Ad DisclaimerWhat Factors Affect the Cost of a New Roof?
The material you choose for your roof is the main cost factor. Nearly as important is the size of your roof, which affects the number of work hours and materials required, as well as the overall labor costs.
The specific shape and parts of your roof can also impact project costs. If your roof is hard to access or the areas needing repair or replacement are restricted, a roofer will typically charge more. Similarly, the project will cost more if the roof is steep or more than two stories high.
New Roof Cost by Material
Some of the most common roofing materials include asphalt shingles, wood shingles, metal, and clay tiles. Here’s a breakdown of average prices per square foot for builder-grade materials, medium labor costs, and low-slope, standard-shaped roofs.
| Material | Average Cost for a 2,000-Square-Foot Roof | Cost per Square Foot | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt shingles | $10,042 | $5.02 | 30–35 years |
| Wood shake | $25,376 | $12.69 | 30–50 years |
| Metal | $37,285 | $18.64 | 40–70 years |
| Clay tile | $42,743 | $21.37 | 50–100 years |
Learn more about different roofing materials with real homeowner insights from our 2026 survey below.
New Roof Cost by Size
Naturally, the larger the roof, the more material and work required. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average roof size in the U.S. is about 1,700 square feet. The average price for an asphalt shingle roof of that size is $8,865.
The table below shows the average total price by size for roofs composed of the most common materials: asphalt, cedar shingle, metal, and clay tiles.
| Size | Asphalt Shingles | Cedar Shingles | Metal | Clay Tiles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1,000 square feet | $5,117 | $12,784 | $18,739 | $21,469 |
| 1,500 square feet | $7,570 | $19,080 | $28,012 | $32,106 |
| 2,000 square feet | $10,042 | $25,376 | $37,285 | $42,743 |
| 2,500 square feet | $12,504 | $31,671 | $46,558 | $53,381 |
| 3,000 square feet | $14,966 | $37,967 | $55,831 | $64,019 |
You can calculate the cost of a new roof by determining your current roof’s square footage and then pricing the material you want to use for the replacement. A larger roof requires more materials and work, so new roofs on bigger homes tend to cost more.
Roofing Labor Costs
The labor cost of roofing is roughly $75 per hour, according to the Roofers Guild. Factors like the project’s complexity, including intricate roof designs, steep pitches, or skylights and other architectural features, may require more skilled labor and increase costs.
Homeowner Insights
- According to our 2026 roofing survey, labor was the largest cost factor (65%) affecting total roofing project costs. Materials were the next largest share of total costs.
Experienced contractors with large teams and well-known reputations may charge higher prices than smaller, newer contractors. Also, consider regional differences when thinking about labor costs. Areas with higher living costs or a shortage of skilled roofers may have higher labor rates. Local building codes and regulations can also affect labor requirements and overall costs.
Hidden and Unexpected Costs When Replacing Your Roof
When planning a roof replacement project, it’s important to consider additional costs beyond shingles, tiles, and labor. We spoke with Maciek Rupar, the technical services director for the National Roofing Contractors Association, to gain more insights on what else affects the cost of a new roof.
- Debris disposal: Contractors typically charge additional fees for removing and properly disposing of old roofing materials and any other debris. “If you have a roof that’s made up of many different planes that intersect at angles, there will be more waste, which will increase the price because it increases the amount of labor involved,” said Rupar.
- Drip edge installation: A drip edge is a piece of metal trim installed along the roof’s edges that helps prevent water from seeping under the materials and damaging the fascia and soffits. But problems with a roof’s drip edge can cause damage that require repairs, like we experienced shadowing an Erie Home consultation.
- Flashing or pipe boots renewal: Flashing, typically made of metal, seals and protects areas where your roof meets vertical surfaces, like chimneys, walls, or dormers. Replacing worn or damaged flashing and pipe boots can prevent water intrusion and leaks.
- Gutter and downspout installation: If your contractor must remove your gutters during the roof replacement, factor in the cost of reattaching or installing new gutters.
- Ice and water barrier installation: In regions prone to ice dams or heavy rainfall, you may need an additional ice and water barrier, which increases material and labor costs.
- Permits: Depending on local building codes and regulations, you may need permits for your roof replacement, which costs extra. Permits are typically an add-on cost that won’t show up in your original estimate, so Rupar recommends checking your roofing contract for these fees.
- Underlayment installation: A critical step in roof installation is laying down an underlayment, typically asphalt-saturated felt paper, over the wood decking. This material acts as a moisture barrier and provides a stable surface for shingle installation.
- Vent installation: Proper attic ventilation is crucial for a roof’s longevity. You may need to install roof or ridge vents to maintain adequate airflow and prevent moisture buildup.
- Wood or truss replacement: Contractors must replace any damaged or deteriorated wood decking or framing. Depending on the extent of the required repairs, this additional carpentry work can add up.
Homeowner Insights
- Nearly 24% of our 2026 survey respondents reported paying for hidden or unexpected roof damage, which is an additional cost factor to consider when preparing your roofing budget.
Should You Repair or Replace Your Roof?
Several factors come into play when deciding whether to repair or replace your roof, including its age and the extent of the damage. For example, if your roof is more than 15 years old and has missing or curling shingles, you may benefit from a replacement. However, if your roof is less than 10 years old and heavy rain or wind has just displaced a few shingles, you can likely repair it.
Signs You Should Repair Your Roof
Below is a list of signs that indicate you should repair your roof instead of replacing it.
- New roofs: If your roof is less than 10–15 years old and the damage is minimal, a repair can extend its lifespan and save you from the high cost of a full replacement. Most roofing materials have a lifespan of 20–25 years, so contractors can effectively repair relatively newer roofs with minor issues.
- Minor or limited damage: If the damage to your roof is limited to a few missing or cracked shingles, minor leaks, or isolated areas of wear and tear, a repair is often a more cost-effective solution.
- Sound underlying structure: If the underlying roof structure, like the decking and framing, is in good condition, a repair may address any surface-level issues. However, you might need a full replacement if the underlying structure is compromised.
- Consider repair costs: In some cases, repairing a roof may cost less than a full replacement, making it a more economical and practical choice, especially if you plan to sell your home soon.
Signs You Should Replace Your Roof
Here’s a list of signs that indicate a roof repair may not work, and that a full roof replacement is needed.
- Extensive existing damage: If your roof has sustained significant and widespread damage from severe weather events, like hailstorms, high winds, or fallen trees, a repair may not work. A full replacement is often the most effective and long-lasting solution in these cases.
- Leaks and moisture issues: If you’re seeing multiple leaks across your roof or signs of widespread moisture damage, like water stains on ceilings or walls, it may indicate a larger issue with the roofing materials or underlayment. Repairing individual leaks may provide only temporary relief when you actually need a full replacement.
- Structural issues or deck damage: If the underlying roof structure, like the decking or framing, has sustained significant damage or deterioration, a repair may not be sufficient. In these cases, a full replacement is needed to address the structural issues and ensure the integrity and longevity of the new roof.
- You have an old roof: Most roofing materials have a limited lifespan of about 20 years. If your roof is nearing the end of its expected service life, it’s usually more practical and cost-effective to replace it entirely.
Hiring a Professional vs. DIYing Your New Roof
Since installing a roof is a complex and dangerous task without proper knowledge and tools, we strongly recommend hiring a professional over trying to do-it-yourself (DIY).
In our 2026 survey, nearly 89% of respondents were either very satisfied or satisfied with their roofing company’s work and customer service. Plus, 73% of respondents said their contractor finished the work on time, with most projects taking around a week.
How To Find a Reputable Roofing Contractor
Knowing how to find a good contractor ensures a successful and long-lasting installation when investing in a new roof. According to Rupar, the main factor to look for in a contractor is a good reputation, since this will determine how well the contractor performs the roof replacement. A contractor who has performed many roof inspections over the years is also worth considering.
If you’re not sure how to find a roofing contractor, the below list can get you started in your search.
- Brand of shingle and roofing material: The brand and quality of the roofing materials you choose can significantly impact the longevity and performance of your new roof. It’s important to find a contractor who can install the material you want and is known for quality workmanship.
- Customer reviews: Online reviews and testimonials from previous customers can provide valuable insights into a contractor’s professionalism, communication skills, and overall work quality.
- Referrals from people you trust: Word-of-mouth recommendations from friends, family, neighbors, or past customers who’ve recently had their roofs replaced can offer a lot of value. Personal referrals provide firsthand accounts into a contractor’s reliability, responsiveness, and work results.
- Warranty: A reputable roofing contractor should offer warranties covering materials and labor. Ask about the specifics of their warranty, including the duration, scope of coverage, and any transferability options.
- Years in business: Experience matters in the roofing industry. Look for a contractor with a proven track record spanning several years or even decades, especially with installations in your area.
Knowing how to find a good contractor and what to look for can save you time and money in the long run. “I wish I had known about the labor costs and different options for contractors, I would have done more research,” said one homeowner in our survey.
How To Save on New Roof Costs
Replacing a roof is a significant investment, and you want to get the most value for your money. Consider the tips below on how to get your money’s worth for your next roof replacement.
Negotiate For a Lower Cost
Once you’ve thoroughly reviewed quotes and picked your preferred contractors, it’s time to negotiate for the best possible price. Here are three effective strategies:
- Bundle services: If you have additional home improvement projects in mind, like gutter replacement or exterior painting, consider bundling these services with a roof replacement. Contractors may offer discounts or package deals when presented with a larger scope of work.
- Leverage competition: Present competing quotes to your top contractors and express your willingness to work with them if their rate matches or beats another company. Reputable contractors may offer more competitive pricing to secure the job.
- Negotiate payment terms: Explore payment options that may benefit the contractor, like offering a larger upfront deposit or agreeing to pay in full upon completion. Some contractors may provide a discount in exchange for more favorable payment terms. Make sure your contract documents any agreed-upon payment terms to avoid misunderstandings or disputes.
Check Your Homeowners Insurance
Your homeowners insurance policy might cover repair or replacement costs if your roof was damaged by severe weather or fallen trees. Before getting your roof replaced, it’s a good idea to look into your insurance claim options. Contact your insurance provider to learn about the process for filing a roof damage claim. Many insurers will send an adjuster to look over the damage and confirm if your policy covers it. If approved, your insurance provider may pay for part or all of the roof replacement costs, saving you a significant amount of money.
Remember to meet specific requirements and deadlines, take photos of the damage, and provide detailed information promptly to strengthen your claim. If your claim is approved, your insurance provider may give you a list of preferred or approved roofing contractors.
Survey Insights From Homeowners Who Replaced Their Roof
We surveyed actual homeowners who recently replaced their home’s roof to better understand their motivation for performing such a large and expensive project. Over half of our surveyed homeowners (54%) said their home was 16 years old or older when they installed a new roof, roughly the time when standard roofs start to deteriorate.
Most Replacements Were Caused by Weather Damage
The most common reason homeowners replaced their roofs was weather-related damage or disasters (40%). The next primary reason was because of active leaks (25%). We also asked about the urgency of their roof replacement, and over 40% of homeowners said they needed to replace their roof within weeks of getting an estimate. This confirms our belief that roof replacement is more of an emergency purchase to fix an issue, rather than a planned home improvement project.
Homeowners Paid What They Expected
About half of our survey respondents (52%) reported paying $5,001–$20,000 for their replacement roof, which aligns with the average costs we gathered in our research. Additionally, 79% of respondents said that their final project cost was about what they expected to pay for their roof replacement.
Many Roofs Were Installed Within a Week
Nearly half (46%) of homeowners reported that their roofing project took three to seven days, from start to finish. About 73% of homeowners also reported that their roofers completed their project within the original estimated timeline.
We found 91% of homeowners were either satisfied or very satisfied with their new roof. Our respondents also reported high satisfaction ratings on their roofer’s customer service and quality of work.
How We Collected Our Survey Data
In 2026, our team surveyed 1,000 homeowners who replaced their home’s roof within the last five years across all 50 U.S. states. Our goal was to gather insights from actual roofing customers about why they decided to replace their roofs and their project experiences. We also gathered data on costs, timelines, and overall satisfaction levels.
FAQs About New Roof Costs
When is the best time of year to get a new roof?
The timing of your roof replacement can greatly impact the project’s cost and quality. Roofing contractors may charge higher prices and have longer wait times during the peak seasons of spring and summer. Lower demand in the fall and winter can lead to better deals and pricing for homeowners. Winter is often a good time for roof replacement, as contractors tend to have the least amount of projects.
Scheduling your roof replacement during off-peak times could help you get more competitive quotes and receive priority scheduling from contractors looking to keep busy.
What does your roof agreement actually tell you?
The work agreement from your roofing contractor tells you the scope of the job, lists the necessary materials, and provides itemized costs for the work. When reviewing a roofing contractor’s quote, carefully examine the details beyond the total cost. Pay attention to the fine print for potential hidden costs or exclusions.
How does a new roof affect the value of your home?
In general, replacing an old or damaged roof should increase your home’s value. At the very least, you can expect a healthy return on investment if you decide to sell, according to the 2025 Journal of Light Construction Cost vs. Value report. A new asphalt shingle roof offers a 68% return on investment (ROI), while a new metal roof offers a 50% ROI.
How long does a new roof project take?
Replacing a roof can take one day to a week or longer, depending on the scope of the job, the roof size, the availability of materials and workers, and the time of year. The most time-consuming part of the job is scheduling an inspection, negotiating a price, working with your homeowners’ insurance company, and scheduling the work. The beginning phase of the job could take a month or longer, depending on how busy your contractor’s schedule is and how efficiently your insurance company processes claims.
How We Determined New Roof Pricing
To provide accurate and current pricing for roof replacements, we collected estimates from Homewyse, a platform used by contractors to generate costs for home improvement projects. We also gathered pricing insights from our 2026 survey of 1,000 homeowners who replaced their roofs within the last five years.
Our research provides a comprehensive overview of both national and local pricing. We requested or analyzed quotes for asphalt, metal, clay, and cedar shingle roofs ranging from 1,000–3,000 square feet in size in several U.S. states, including California and Texas, to better understand local pricing. This allows our cost averages to reflect diverse homeowner needs across both urban and rural markets.
Prices shared in this guide represent the average cost of a new asphalt shingle roof based on our research at the time of publication. Actual costs may vary depending on factors such as location, service provider, home size, material quality, and project scope.
