The national average cost to replace a roof is around $10,000 to $11,000, but it can range between $6,500 and $40,000 depending on the different roofing material, roof size, labor rates, and installation complexity. Asphalt shingles are the most affordable roofing material, while Materials like slate tile and copper are among the expensive roofing materials due to their weight and specialized installation.
Homeowners often overlook hidden costs like underlayment replacement, flashing upgrades, and ventilation adjustments. All of these can significantly impact the final price.
This guide breaks down the cost of replacing different roof types, including asphalt, metal, clay tile, slate roof, wood shake, and flat roofs. It also covers key cost factors such as roof pitch, tear-off requirements, and regional labor rates.
The cost of roof replacement varies widely depending on the material used, the complexity of installation, and the expected service life.
Some systems, like asphalt shingles, offer affordability with moderate longevity, while others, like metal roofing or EPDM rubber, offer longer-term durability at a higher upfront cost.
Below is a breakdown of the most relevant roofing systems in 2025, including replacement timelines and pricing estimates.
It is most commonly used in residential construction. Easy to install, cost-effective, and available in various grades, including three-tab and architectural shingles. It is susceptible to weather damage and thermal cracking over time.
This type of roofing is used primarily for flat or low-slope roofs. EPDM rubber offers excellent weather resistance and flexibility. Installation can be done with adhesives or ballasting.
Roof repairs of this type are simple and cost-effective, making it a long-term solution for commercial and auxiliary residential structures.
This type is known for its durability, fire resistance, and energy efficiency. It is available in panels or standing seam profiles.
While the initial metal roof cost is higher, its long-term durability and energy efficiency reduce lifetime maintenance expenses.
Owens Corning is a leading manufacturer of laminated architectural shingles. These shingles offer improved wind resistance and enhanced aesthetic appeal over standard three-tab models. Often chosen for residential re-roofing due to their performance and warranty options.
GN Exteriors is an authorized installer and provider of Velux skylights and shades, with over 20 years of experience in skylight installation and roofing services.
Skylight replacement or installation often occurs during roof replacement. Velux offers fixed, venting, and solar-powered skylights, along with integrated light-filtering or blackout shades.
Several variables directly influence how much you will pay for a roof replacement. Beyond material costs, labor and structural details can significantly shift the final price. Below is a breakdown of the most common cost drivers in 2025:
Labor typically accounts for 40% to 60% of the total roof replacement cost, depending on the roofing material, pitch, roof height, and job complexity.
As per the recent data available, national average labor rates range from $150 to $300 per roofing square (1 square = 100 sq. ft.), with premium materials and difficult installations exceeding this range.
The table below outlines the average labor costs for installing various roof types, based on cost per square foot and estimated pricing for a standard 1,500 sq. ft. roof.
Roof Type / Material | Labor Cost per Sq. Ft. | Labor Cost per 1,500 Sq. Ft. Roof |
Asphalt Shingle | $1.50 – $2.50 | $2,250 – $3,750 |
Rubber Roofing (EPDM) | $2.00 – $3.00 | $3,000 – $4,500 |
Metal Roofing (Steel or Aluminum) | $3.00 – $5.00 | $4,500 – $7,500 |
Owens Corning Architectural Shingles | $2.00 – $3.50 | $3,000 – $5,250 |
Skylight Installation (Velux unit) | $800 – $1,500 per skylight | Depends on the unit count and roof type |
There are five key factors that can influence how much you’ll pay for labor during a roof replacement:
Reroofing can save $1,000 to $2,500 in labor and disposal costs, but it comes with potential downsides, such as trapped moisture, reduced ventilation, and a shorter lifespan for the new layer. It also doesn’t allow for a full deck inspection, which can lead to hidden structural issues down the line.
Roof replacement involves removing the entire roof down to the deck and installing a completely new roof system. Reroofing, also known as an overlay, means installing new roof shingles directly over the existing roof layer without tear-off.
Reroofing includes minor repairs, such as installing the missing shingles, that may delay full replacement and save money, but structural issues often require a complete tear-off.
Most building codes limit overlays to two layers of roofing. If your roof already has two layers or shows signs of rot or damage, full replacement is required.
Covered gutters, gutter guards, or leaf guards offer a significant advantage over traditional open roof gutters by preventing leaves, pine needles, and debris from clogging the system. This reduces the need for frequent cleaning and helps maintain uninterrupted water flow during heavy rain.
Open gutters, while cheaper upfront, are prone to clogs that can lead to roof edge rot, fascia damage, and foundation problems. Over time, these issues often result in costly roof repairs and extra labor during roof replacement.
Although covered gutters have a higher installation cost (typically $7–$15 per linear foot, depending on the system), they offer long-term savings by extending gutter lifespan, minimizing maintenance, and reducing water-related damage around your home.
For most homeowners, covered gutters are the best bet when replacing the entire roof or as part of a larger home improvement project.
Worried about upfront roof replacement costs? GN exteriors roofing offers fast, flexible financing with high approval rates, low APRs, and both standard and promotional plans to fit your budget. From asphalt to solar-ready roofing, our financing covers it all.
As a licensed lender in Massachusetts and active in 95% of the U.S. solar market, we make it easy to protect your home without delay. Start your project today, pay over time with confidence.
A professional roof inspection typically costs $300 to $600, depending on the roof’s size, slope, and accessibility. Some roofing companies offer free inspections as part of an estimate.
An inspection helps identify hidden issues like rot, leaks, or structural damage before starting the job.
It’s best to get at least 2 to 3 quotes from licensed and insured roofing contractors. This helps you compare labor pricing, warranties, materials, and project timelines. Avoid quotes that are significantly lower than others, as they may leave out key cost components.
Yes. Roofs with valleys, dormers, chimneys, or steep slopes result in higher costs as they require more labor and precision, increasing the actual costs by 10% to 20%. These areas also produce more material waste and require additional flashing, which adds to both time and expense.
Upgrading to synthetic underlayment or ice & water shield adds about $0.50 to $1.50 per sq. ft. These upgrades offer better waterproofing, especially in cold or rainy climates. Some local building codes require these layers in valleys and eaves.
Installing or upgrading ridge vents, soffit vents, or attic fans typically costs $150 to $400. Adequate ventilation prevents heat buildup and moisture damage, helping shingles last longer and improving attic energy efficiency.
Homeowners insurance may cover roof replacement if the damage was caused by a covered peril, such as hail, windstorms, or fallen trees. Most policies don’t cover wear and tear or old age. You will need an inspection and claim approval to confirm coverage.
