Most homeowners opt for asphalt shingles when replacing their roofs. These shingles are affordable, easy to install and last about 20 years, making them the most popular roofing material for American homes.
This guide covers how much you can expect to pay for a new asphalt shingle roof and provides saving tips.
Shingle Roof Cost
The cost to install new shingles varies widely. A shingle roof for a 2,000-square-foot home costs an average of $8,500–$24,500, but it can range from as low as $5,000 to as high as $40,000. These prices apply to asphalt shingles, the most economical option; other materials cost more.
Where your roof costs fall within the given price range depends on two main factors:
- Square footage: Your roof’s size determines material and labor costs for applying new shingles.
- Shingle material: Shingles are most commonly made from asphalt but can be made of higher-quality, more expensive materials.
Cost by Square Foot
Home size isn’t the only thing that determines the complexity of a roofing job, but it is the most relevant factor when it comes to cost. Note that asphalt shingles are only a small part of the total price.
| Roof Size (square feet) | Asphalt Shingles Only | Materials and Installation |
|---|---|---|
| 1,200 | $1,200–$3,600 | $5,400–$14,700 |
| 1,500 | $1,500–$4,500 | $6,375–$18,375 |
| 2,000 | $2,000–$6,000 | $8,500–$24,500 |
| 2,500 | $2,500–$7,500 | $10,625–$30,625 |
| 3,000 | $3,000–$9,000 | $12,750–$36,750 |
| 3,500 | $3,500–$10,500 | $14,875–$42,875 |
Cost by Type of Shingles
There are several types of asphalt shingles, including basic, premium architectural, and composite shingles. Shingles may also be made from metal, wood, stone, or other materials, which are typically more expensive than asphalt.
| Shingle Material | Total Price per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Aluminum shingles | $8.50–$13.75 |
| Architectural asphalt shingles | $4.50–$12.25 |
| Basic asphalt shingles | $4.25–$8.25 |
| Composite shingles | $7.50–$13.00 |
| Slate shingles | $12.00–$22.00 |
| Steel shingles | $8.00–$12.65 |
| Wood shakes or shingles | $8.00–$14.30 |
Factors Affecting Cost
Square footage and roofing material primarily determine new roof costs, but here are some other factors to consider.
Additional Services
While you’re having your roof repaired, you can tackle other related home improvement projects that would ordinarily require you to tear up some or all of your roof.
- Attic fan installation: $300–$900
- Flashing replacement: $200–$500
- New gutters: $1,000–$6,500
- Skylight installation: $1,600–$4,200
Brand
The shingle’s quality and material are more important to the price than the brand, but there are lower-end and higher-end brands. Owens Corning and GAF are more affordable, whereas IKO and Tamko have slightly higher prices.
Labor
Installation usually makes up about 60% of new roof costs, and anything that makes the job more time-consuming or difficult will increase the total price. Roofs with a steep slope or limited accessibility cost more to replace or fix. Working around features such as skylights and dormers can also make the project take longer and increase costs.
Repair
Installing a new roof involves more than laying new shingles. It usually requires repairing or replacing the existing decking and underlayment in addition to the outer layer of shingles. Roof repair cost varies substantially based on what needs repairing or replacing. Vents and ridge capping are some of the least expensive aspects, while repairing or reinforcing eaves, rafter tails, and trusses are more costly.
Shingle Removal
If you’re replacing your roof, someone will need to tear off the old shingles and any damaged roofing structures before new shingles are installed. Any debris will also need to be disposed of. This usually costs $1–$5 per square foot of old materials.
Warranty Coverage
Most major shingle brands offer a limited lifetime warranty on their roofing products. These warranties are prorated based on the age of the shingles and apply to materials only, though some manufacturers may cover labor if you work with one of their approved roofing contractors. Evan Greene, Sales Manager of Northeast Exteriors for the New England Branch of Long Home Products, advises checking the warranty for specific exclusions such as proration, labor and workmanship components, and whether the manufacturer indemnifies the installer doing the work. Home warranties don’t cover roof replacement, but many offer limited roof-leak coverage.
Replace Shingles vs. New Roof
Replacing a full roof is expensive. In some cases, it may be possible to replace only the damaged part of the existing roof. Repair is often preferable if your roof is less than 10 years old and the damage is limited to one part of the roof. However, replacing the whole roof may be more cost-effective if your roof is older, there are widespread structural problems, or you’re planning to sell your home soon. Replacing large sections of an old roof in phases will be more expensive than one-time replacement costs.
Professional vs. DIY
Most do-it-yourselfers (DIYers) can replace a few shingles, but applying shingles to an entire roof is far more difficult and dangerous. Poorly laid shingles can allow leaks that will seriously damage your roof’s structure. Here’s an overview of professional installation versus DIY.
Professional Shingle Installation
A professional roofing company has the right tools, expertise, and workers to do the job quickly and correctly. A high percentage of roof installation costs goes to labor because this is a specialized job. Professional roofers know how to adjust for roof pitch and meet all necessary building codes. Additionally, most roofing contractors offer guarantees on their work.
DIY Shingle Installation
If you want to lay shingles yourself, you’ll need a chalk line, hammer, utility knife, roof harness, roofing nails, and fasteners in addition to the shingles. Note that these steps apply to shingle installation only and assume that the roof’s decking is in good repair and the flashing, underlayment, vents, and drip edge are already in place.
- Measure up from the bottom of the eave and snap a chalk line where you want to put your starter row, making sure it covers the drip edge completely.
- Start applying shingles at the outer edge. Butt each shingle tight against the next one with no gaps, and use a minimum of four nails per three-tab shingle.
- Cut 6 inches off the edge of a shingle for the second row, following any manufacturer’s instructions to stagger the tabs. Cut off 12 inches for the third row, and so on.
- Start your rows away from any roof valleys and work toward them. When you’ve worked all the rows, snap a chalk line down the center of the valley, carefully cut the shingles up the chalk line, and seal them with roofing cement.
- Apply cap shingles at the top of any peaks, or create your own from standard shingles.
Signs That You Need to Replace Your Roof Shingles
Here are some signs that your roof shingles might need replacing.
- Broken, bent, or cracked shingles
- Missing granules or granule buildup in gutters
- Water damage in attics or ceilings
- Moss growing on the roof
- Rust or wear around vents, pipes, or chimneys
- Buckling or dark spots on the roof
How To Save on Shingle Roof Costs
Here are some steps you can take to save money on a new shingle roof, even if you hire a professional to do the installation.
- Choose roofing materials that are less expensive or on sale. However, make sure you don’t cost yourself in the long run by choosing poor-quality materials.
- If it’s allowed in your state and your roof’s foundation is solid, you can sometimes apply a new layer of shingles without having to remove the old one, saving on removal and disposal costs.
- Hire professionals in the off-season—typically late fall or early spring—when they’re less in demand.
- Get quotes from at least three roofing contractors before making your choice.
- Extend your new roof’s lifespan by performing regular inspections and maintenance.
Our Conclusion
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in American homes. Though they’re less durable than other materials, these are the best option for homeowners on a budget. Opting for higher-quality shingles and professional installation can ensure they last. For roof replacement and repairs involving more than a few shingles, we recommend getting multiple professional estimates and hiring a trusted contractor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shingle Roof Cost
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