You want to feel secure knowing that your roof is providing strong protection against wind and rain damage to your house. If your roof is over 15 years old, it may be time to consider a roof replacement. A replacement can cost you thousands of dollars, and proper budgeting can help you prepare for the expense without sacrificing the safety of your home.
If you’re considering a roof replacement but aren’t sure where to begin, Right Way Roofing can help. This guide will provide a cost breakdown for roof replacement services, including the price of materials, labor, and other hidden fees. We’ll also review the differences between roof repairs and replacements, and how to know which is right for your home.
Key Factors That Affect the Cost of Roof Replacement
The average cost of roof replacement services is not as straightforward as one might think. Your budget can fluctuate depending on how you want your roof to look and the extent of the work. The primary factors that can change the cost of your roof replacement include:
Materials
Different roofing materials are going to have different price ranges. For example, asphalt shingles are one of the more affordable roofing options available, while metal roofing may cost more per square foot. Consider what level of protection you need from your roof, the style you’re looking for, and the cost of each material to choose the right one for you.
Labor
Another big portion of your roof replacement cost will go towards the cost of labor. Essentially, this cost covers how complicated the project is and how much work the contractors will need to do to get the job done right. This can include the extent of the damage, the timeline for the project, and the number of contractors the company will need on the team. Larger roofs may require a bigger team, meaning a higher labor cost.
Roof Size
The bigger your roof, the more work and materials will need to go into the project to replace it. This means the estimated cost will increase the more square footage your roof covers. Your team of contractors will take a look at the size of your roof and factor it into the price estimate they provide before starting the project.
Slope
Most roofs have at least some degree of slope, which prevents rain from pooling and leading to water damage in your home. The steeper the slope of your roof, the more complicated the process of replacing it. Your contractors will need special equipment to safely scale your roof and get to work, and this can increase the average cost of your roof replacement.
Location
Lastly, the cost of a roof replacement can vary depending on where you live. Labor and material costs can fluctuate from state to state, even from city to city. Get in touch with multiple contractors in your area and get estimates for your roof replacement. From there, you can pick the team that works best for you while staying within your budget.
Comparing Roofing Materials: Costs and Lifespans
When budgeting for your upcoming roof replacement project, one thing to keep in mind is the material you want to use. Different roofing materials have different prices and durability, and you need to keep these in mind to pick the right one. The most common roofing materials include:
| Asphalt Shingles | Asphalt is a classic roofing material that is both affordable and durable. The shingles make this roof easy to repair and replace, resulting in lower labor costs. Asphalt shingles can last for decades depending on maintenance and weather conditions. |
| Tile Roofing | Roof tiles create a unique style for your home while protecting it from the elements. It can be a little pricier than asphalt shingles due to the installation process and cost of materials. However, the material also makes it surprisingly durable, and tile roofs can last for over 50 years. |
| Foam Roofing | Foam roofing is quick and easy to install, lowering labor costs for replacement services. With routine maintenance and recoating services, a foam roof can last for decades. |
How to Get Accurate Roofing Estimates
A roof replacement estimate will give you a good idea of the potential costs so you can plan accordingly. However, you’re not limited to one company. Reach out to multiple local contractors in your area and get estimates from each so you can compare pricing.
Be consistent in what you want for each company. Pick the same materials and give the same guidelines so you have an accurate apples-to-apples price comparison. Some companies will charge more for certain projects than others, so look at the cost breakdown for each and pick one that works best for you.
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Hidden Costs in Roof Replacement
While a roofing estimate will give you a rough idea of the costs, it’s still an estimate. Your contractors may uncover hidden issues once construction starts that will need to be taken care of. Common hidden costs for a roof replacement include:
- Building Your Roof Up to Code
- Mold and Mildew
- Pests
- Leaks and Water Damage
- Improper Roof Slope
When Is Roof Replacement Better Than Repairs?
Minor damage to your roof can be fixed with simple repairs. However, there comes a time when repairs are no longer enough. A roof replacement may save you money over time when compared to repeated repairs. A replacement may be the better option if:
- Your roof is over 15 years old and showing signs of aging.
- Your roof is leaking repeatedly and needs repeated repairs.
- The damage to your roof is too extensive for a repair to be feasible.
DIY Roof Replacement vs. Hiring Professionals
While attempting to make minor repairs to your roof on your own can save you money in the short term, it also comes with risks and long-term expenses. Doing it on your own risks damaging your home further, leading to more expensive repairs and replacements later down the road. In addition, you void any warranties you may have for your roof.
For professional roof replacement or other roofing services in the Phoenix Valley, look no further than Right Way Roofing. No matter the extent of the project, our team of certified and licensed technicians is your 1-stop shop for all things roofing in the desert. Contact us today to schedule an estimate!