What Factors Are Considered When Calculating the Cost of a New Roof?

Having a new roof installed is one of the largest home improvement projects the average homeowner will ever have done. Installation costs vary widely, and it can be difficult to compare estimates from different roofing contractors. When it’s time for a roof replacement, understanding the factors that contribute to the cost of a new roof can help homeowners make an informed decision. Calculating the cost of a roof replacement involves several factors. Here are the key elements to consider:

1. Roof Size

Square Footage: The larger the roof, the more materials and labor will be needed. Roofers often charge per roofing square, which is equal to 100 square feet.

2. Roofing Material

Types of Materials: Different materials have different costs. Common options include asphalt shingles, metal, wood shingles, slate, and tile. Each material varies in price, durability, and aesthetic appeal.

• • Asphalt Shingles: Typically the most affordable option.
  • Metal Roofing: More expensive but offers longevity and energy efficiency.
  • Slate and Tile: Among the most expensive but highly durable and visually appealing.

3. Roof Complexity

• Pitch (Slope) of the Roof: Steeper roofs are more challenging to work on and may increase labor costs.
• Design Features: Roofs with multiple facets, valleys, dormers, or skylights are more complex and require additional time and materials.

4. Labor Costs

• Local Rates: Labor costs vary by region due to differences in cost of living and demand for roofing services.
• Contractor Experience: More experienced contractors may charge higher rates but can offer better quality work.

5. Removal of Old Roof

• Tear-Off Costs: Removing the old roofing material before installing the new one adds to the labor and disposal costs.
• Number of Layers: Multiple layers of old roofing will increase the cost and time needed for removal.

6. Roofing Underlayment and Accessories

• Underlayment: Protective layer beneath the roofing material, such as synthetic or felt underlayment, adds to the cost.
• Flashing: Metal pieces installed at joints and edges to prevent water leaks.
• Ventilation: Proper roof ventilation is essential for longevity and energy efficiency, requiring additional materials and labor. (more directly below)

7. Attic Ventilation

A balanced attic ventilation system is important for many comfort and cost reasons. Your roofing system needs the right amount of insulation with proper roof ventilation to create a circulating airflow. Proper ventilation also increases the structural longevity of your roof and attic space by reducing condensation and uneven temperatures.

An improperly designed or installed ventilation system strains your home’s HVAC as it must be running constantly to maintain a stable temperature. Condensation also forms from this imbalance, and it can lead to toxic mold growth when left unchecked. Not only is this moisture dangerous to a person’s health, but it can also damage the roof sheathing over time and can lead to thousands of dollars in replacement costs.

8. Warranty

• Material Warranty: Some materials come with longer warranties, which can impact the overall cost.
• Workmanship Warranty: Contractors may offer different warranties on their labor, with longer or more comprehensive warranties potentially costing more.
• Click the following link to read about St. Joesph’s Warranty.

9. Roofing Squares

When you work with roofing contractors, you may hear the term “squares” being discussed as part of roofing material estimates.

Roof surfaces are measured in squares. A roofing square is an area of your roof that equals 100 square feet and covers a 10’ x 10’ area. The number of roofing squares needed for a project is calculated by dividing the total roof area by 100 (which is 1 square).

For example, if your roof covers a 2200 square-foot area, divide 2200 / 100 = 22, so your project would require 22 squares of shingles to cover your roof.

10. Roof Penetrations

A roof penetration is anything that sticks out of a roof. Plumbing vents, gas vents, kitchen/bathroom vents, skylights, and chimneys are common roof penetrations. The more penetrations a roof has, the more time and manpower it takes to work around them to install a new roof.

Contact St. Joesph’s Roofing for a free Estimate

With the wide range of roofing systems available to residential and commercial customers across Maryland and Northern Virginia, it takes a seasoned professional to know what roofing system is ideal for which situation. At St. Joseph’s Roofing, we bring more than 28 years of experience and expert product knowledge to every project allowing us to properly match customers with the roofing system that best their needs. Plus, our industry-leading warranties make our roofing systems an even better fit from a long-term financial perspective.

Call us @ (703) 716-7663 and start discussing your next roofing project with the area’s most trusted and respected roofer today!