Roofing Quotes & Costs
Asphalt shingles, metal, tile, and more, understand what roofing projects really cost before you request quotes.
Average roofing costs by material
Roofing costs depend heavily on the material you choose. Below are national average costs for a standard 2,000 sq ft roof installation.
| Material | Low End | High End | National Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingles | $5,500 | $9,000 | $7,250 |
| Metal Roofing | $10,000 | $18,000 | $14,000 |
| Tile Roofing | $15,000 | $30,000 | $22,500 |
| Flat Roof | $4,000 | $8,000 | $6,000 |
| Slate Roofing | $20,000 | $40,000 | $30,000 |
Based on 546 real roofing contractor quotes in our database. Median project cost: $12,550.
Factors that affect roofing costs
Material is only one piece of the puzzle. Several other factors play a significant role in determining your final roofing cost.
- Roof Size: Roofing is priced per square (100 sq ft). A larger roof means more materials and labor.
- Pitch and Slope: Steeper roofs are more dangerous and time-consuming to work on, increasing labor costs by 20–40%.
- Materials: Premium materials like slate or architectural shingles cost significantly more than standard 3-tab asphalt.
- Location: Local labor rates, building codes, and weather conditions all influence pricing in your area.
- Tear-Off: Removing the existing roof before installing a new one adds $1,000–$3,000 to the project.
- Permits: Most municipalities require building permits for roof replacements, typically costing $200–$500.
Always get 3+ quotes
Roofing is one of the most expensive home improvements, and pricing can vary dramatically between contractors. Getting at least three written estimates helps you identify fair pricing and avoid overpaying.
Be wary of any quote that is significantly lower than the others, it may indicate the contractor is cutting corners on materials, skipping proper underlayment, or lacking adequate insurance.
How to choose a roofing contractor
A roof is a long-term investment, so choosing the right contractor is critical. Here is what to look for when evaluating roofing companies.
- Verify they are licensed, bonded, and insured in your state.
- Look for manufacturer certifications (e.g., GAF Master Elite, CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster).
- Ask for proof of workers' compensation and general liability insurance.
- Check online reviews and ask for references from recent local projects.
- Insist on a detailed written contract that includes scope of work, materials, timeline, and warranty terms.
Common roofing scams to avoid
Unfortunately, roofing is an industry where scams are common, especially after storms. Protect yourself by watching for these red flags.
- Storm chasers: Contractors who go door-to-door after a storm offering immediate repairs, often with no local presence or accountability.
- Large upfront deposits: Reputable contractors rarely ask for more than 10–20% upfront. Avoid anyone demanding 50% or more before starting.
- No written contract: Never agree to work based on a verbal agreement. Everything should be documented in writing.
- Pressure tactics: Be skeptical of contractors who push you to sign immediately or claim the price is only valid today.
- Insurance fraud: Avoid contractors who offer to waive your deductible or inflate the claim, this is illegal.
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