How Much Does a Roof Replacement Cost in 2025?
How have the recent years of inflation affected roof prices? What factors influence the cost or replacement? We cover all this, and more!
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Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, protecting your family and structure from the elements. But when it's time for a replacement, the price tag can be daunting. Understanding what drives roof replacement costs in 2025 can help you prepare, budget, and avoid surprises.
Don't let the cost of a roof replacement scare you away from keeping your home safe and secure. With a little bit of knowledge and some budget-saving tips, you can make this necessary home improvement project more affordable than you might think.
In this article, we'll explore the average cost of a roof replacement in 2025 and offer some tips on how to save money without sacrificing quality.
Table of Contents
How Much Does a Roof Replacement Cost?
Replacing a roof can be one of the most expensive improvements you have to make on your home. The good news is that it doesn't have to be done very often. With most asphalt shingle roofs lasting around 20+ years (with regular care and maintenance) and metal and slate roofs lasting much longer, it is an expense that is infrequent.
However, as your roof ages and is subjected to the elements, especially if you have harsh weather in your climate, eventually, you may need to replace your roof completely. A full roof replacement in 2025 typically ranges from $6,800 to $75,000, with the average cost around $10,900 for a standard home.
Benefits of Replacing a Roof
There are several benefits of replacing a roof on your home. Here are just a few:
Increasing the Value of Your Home
A new roof boosts curb appeal and resale value. If you're planning to sell within the next few years and your roof is aging or has been patched multiple times, replacing it can be a smart move. A new roof may increase your home’s value by $17,000 or more, helping offset much of the replacement cost.
Maintain Insurance Coverage
Most insurers won’t cover roofs over 20 years old. If yours is nearing that mark, replacing it can help you stay eligible for full coverage. Check with your provider for specific requirements.
Protect the Air Quality in Your Home
Leaks from an aging roof can lead to moisture buildup, mold, and indoor allergens. A new roof helps prevent those issues and supports a healthier living environment.
Signs You Need a New Roof
Since you know that your home's roof won't last forever, you can keep your eyes open to obvious signs that you may need a new roof. Here are a few.
Roof Replacement Cost Factors
There are several factors that affect the cost of replacing a roof. Here are a few:
Material Cost
The cost of the materials used in replacing a roof is a majority of the bill. The following are some average costs per square foot of specific materials:
- Rubber: $4 to $9
- Vinyl (PVC): $3.50 to $6
- Bitumen: $3.50 to $6
- Asphalt Shingles: $3.50 to $7.50
Labor Cost
The cost of labor is another large percentage, 50% to 70%, of the total expense of replacing your roof. Roof work is a specialized skill and requires workers who have experience and knowledge. Labor is more expensive for a metal roof than a shingle roof.
Most roofers charge by the square (equal to 100 square feet). If your existing roof needs to be torn off first, you can expect an additional $1.50 to $5.50 per square foot, depending on the material and number of layers.
Here are some average costs of labor per square foot of roof size:
| Roof Size (sq. ft.) | Shingle Roof Labor Cost | Metal Roof Labor Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 | $2,100 – $3,700 | $4,200 – $8,200 |
| 1,500 | $3,100 – $5,500 | $6,200 – $12,500 |
| 2,000 | $4,200 – $7,300 | $8,400 – $16,500 |
| 2,500 | $5,300 – $9,100 | $10,500 – $20,500 |
| 3,000 | $6,300 – $11,000 | $12,600 – $24,500 |
| 3,500 | $7,400 – $12,800 | $14,700 – $28,500 |
Roof Size and Pitch
A smaller, lower-pitched roof is generally less expensive to replace. These roofs require fewer materials and less labor. In contrast, steeply pitched roofs demand additional safety equipment, like harnesses and tie-offs, and more time to complete, increasing overall labor costs.
Roof Complexity
Roof complexity increases the cost of replacement. However, a complex roof, with features like gables, dormers, or intersecting rooflines, often adds character and value compared to a standard gabled roof.
A complex roof is one that may have these aspects:
- Multilevels
- Pitches
- Gables
- Domes
- Long rafters
- Multiple peaks
- Dormers
- Skylights
- Chimneys
- Towers
- Overhangs
Removal of Old Roof
Removing the old roof is typically the first step before installing a new one. This added service is often itemized separately in your roof replacement quote. Tearing off the existing shingles allows contractors to inspect the roof deck and uncover any hidden damage. Roof removal involves specialized tools, usually roofing shovels or tear-off bars, to lift and discard old materials. Crews work from the top down, clearing fasteners and debris to prepare for a smooth and secure new installation.
Types of Roofing Materials and Their Costs
Different types of roofing materials have different costs. Here are some of the most common.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material for good reason; they're affordable, widely available, and relatively easy to install. They usually last 15 to 30 years, though they’re more prone to weather damage than other materials. In 2025, you can expect to pay around $3 to $6 per square foot, including installation.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofing is a popular choice for its long lifespan and minimal upkeep. It’s available as standing seam panels or metal shingles, both of which hold up well against harsh weather. Most metal roofs last 50 years or more, and material costs typically range from $9 to $16 per square foot. While maintenance is generally low, it’s still a good idea to follow a few winter maintenance tips to help prevent issues like ice buildup.
Wood Shakes and Shingles
Wood roofs offer a natural, classic appearance and are often made from cedar, redwood, or pine. Shingles are machine-cut and smooth, while shakes are hand-split with a more textured look. Lifespan ranges from 20 to 30 years, depending on climate and upkeep. Installed costs are around $6 to $14 per square foot, making them pricier than asphalt but appealing for their curb appeal.
Slate Shingles
Slate roofs are long-lasting and bring a timeless, upscale look to a home. Made from real stone, they’re incredibly durable and often last 75 to 100+ years. Slate is also fire-resistant and low-maintenance, though it’s one of the heaviest roofing options. Installation costs typically run $12 to $30 per square foot, depending on the cut and thickness of the stone.
Clay Tiles
Clay tile roofing is often used in warm or coastal climates thanks to its resistance to sun and salt. It’s long-lasting, usually 50 to 100 years, and offers a distinct architectural style. Clay tiles are heavier and may require structural support, with pricing falling between $10 and $18 per square foot, installed.
Concrete Tiles
Concrete tiles mimic the look of clay but come at a lower cost. They’re strong, wind-resistant, and well-suited for homes in storm-prone areas. Lifespan is typically 50 years or more, and costs range from $8 to $15 per square foot, depending on style and installation complexity.
How to Estimate Roof Replacement Costs
Several variables go into the cost of replacing a roof, some within your control, and others not. Understanding the biggest cost drivers can help you prepare for quotes, budget realistically, and ask the right questions.
Calculating Roof Size and Pitch
The larger your roof, the more material and labor you'll need. Pitch (slope) also plays a role: steep roofs require additional safety measures like tie-offs and harnesses, which increases cost.
- A low-pitch roof (under 3/12) is considered walkable and faster to replace.
- A high-pitch roof (above 6/12) requires more time and specialized equipment.
Pitch calculation: Rise ÷ Run (in inches per foot). A 6″ rise over 12″ of run equals a 6/12 pitch.
Estimating Material and Labor Costs
In the process of calculating the project budget and reviewing estimates, the unfamiliar term “roofing square” is likely to come up. This is a unit of measure unique to roofing that makes it easier for roofers to calculate ordering and material costs. A roofing square is a 10-foot by 10-foot section of the roof or 100 square feet. When discussing the price per square foot, the number usually includes the cost of the roofing material, supplies, protective elements, waste removal, and labor. Some roofers still use a per-square-foot measure, so homeowners will want to be clear about the units the contractor uses while discussing the cost. If it's helpful, homeowners can refer to an online roof replacement cost calculator for a rough estimate.
How to Account for Roof Complexity
The more complex the design of your roof is, the higher the costs will be. Roofers account for difficult areas of concern such as dormers, hips, valleys, gables, and so forth when measuring and costing out a roof replacement job.
Hiring a Roofing Contractor
There are several things to consider when hiring a roofing contractor. It is best to interview at least two, and preferably three, to get their estimates and learn how they do the work.
Here are some of the most important things to find out and take into account when looking for a roofing contractor:
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional for Roof Replacement
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. Installing a new roof is a job that requires knowledge and skill from people who do it every day. It is not a do-it-yourself job you can tackle on a weekend. You may be tempted to go the DIY route because of the cost, but this project needs to be done by a professional due to the exact precision required and the safety risks.
Financing Options for Roof Replacement
Replacing a roof can be a large expense but it is a job that must be done. If you can't pay out of pocket or want to keep your cash reserves intact, there are options for financing the work. If you are getting a roof due to an insurance claim because of a specific event that is covered by insurance, insurance will pay. However, if you need to replace your roof due to normal wear and tear, you will cover those costs yourself. You can get personal loans, home equity lines of credit, home equity loans, and use a credit card to pay for your roof replacement.
How to Save on Roof Replacement Costs
The good news is that there are ways you can save on the costs of replacing your roof. When getting estimates, ask if there are any incentives or off-season discounts. Here are a few:
Roofers in New Jersey are typically busiest in spring, late summer, and fall. If your project timeline is flexible, try scheduling in the early winter or mid-summer when demand is lower. During these slower seasons, contractors may offer more competitive pricing and quicker availability.
While saving money is important, choosing the lowest quote can sometimes lead to subpar materials, rushed work, or hidden costs. A slightly higher bid from a reputable contractor often includes better warranties, higher-quality materials, and experienced installation—saving you more long-term.
In some cases, certain roofing components like decking, flashing, or even underlayment can be reused if they’re still in good condition. Ask your contractor during the inspection if reusing materials is an option. It may help lower costs without compromising safety or performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Replace My Roof?
If a roof has been installed correctly with durable high-quality materials, it can last from 20 – 30 years or even longer. The type of shingles and materials used are also factors in how long a roof will last. For example, asphalt shingles can last 15 – 30 years, wood shingles can last 20 – 25 years, rubber roofs can last 30 – 50 years, and metal roofs can last 50 – 75 years. Read our comprehensive guide on shingle lifespan to learn about the different types of roof shingles and how long each one should last on your home.
Can I Install a New Roof Over an Old One?
Yes, you can install a new roof on top of an old one. This is called re-roofing or a roof overlay and is less expensive. An overlay is one option you can look at to lower the cost. You can only install new shingles over asphalt shingles that meet the re-roof conditions and you can’t mix materials. In other words, you can’t install shingles over wood shingles or shakes or over slate. It is recommended that you replace the roof instead of re-roofing it if the roof is old. By taking off the old roof, you are able to fully see what condition under the shingles is in.
How Long Does a Roof Replacement Take?
The length of time that it takes to replace a roof depends on the size, pitch, materials, and complexity of the roof. Weather can also be a factor in how long it takes to install a new roof. On average, your typical residential home has an area of 1600 – 1700 square feet. It will more than likely take 1 – 2 days to replace a roof using asphalt shingles for this size house.
On average, the following shingles can be finished in this amount of time:
- Wooden Shingles: 3 – 4 days
- Slate Tiles and Shingles: 6 – 7 days
- Asphalt Shingles: 1 – 2 days
- Concrete Tiles and Shingles: 8 – 9 days
What Should I Do if I Discover a Leak in My Roof After a Replacement?
If you find a leak after your roof has been replaced, first check your roof warranty paperwork. If the leak is caused by improper installation, the roofer’s workmanship warranty should cover it and you shouldn’t have to pay for the repair. If you made a bad decision in selecting a roofing contractor, the contractor may or may not honor the warranty. You can also rely on the material warranty you received from the manufacturer if it is a problem with the materials. If there is a defect or a malfunction with the materials, the manufacturer should pay to replace them.
What Warranties and Guarantees Should I Expect From My Roofing Contractor?
Both a workmanship and material warranty should be on your estimate from the roofing contractor. The majority of the roof warranties come from the manufacturer of the materials used. Some of the top roofing companies, like Allied Roofing, offer the Owens Corning Platinum Protection warranty. Additionally, contractors may offer some sort of coverage for workmanship. Each contractor has their own so a warranty from one contractor may be different as compared to another. To get a clear understanding of contractor warranty coverage, you can:
- Request a written explanation of what is covered and what is not. If the contractor can’t provide this, you should look for another contractor.
- Ask whether the warranty covers workmanship, materials, or both. In most cases, a contractor’s warranty will only cover workmanship.
- Research the credibility of a warranty by looking into the contractor’s history and track record.
Summary
We hope this information has been helpful in answering your questions about getting a roof replaced. In the end, if you understand the process and these essential facts, you will be able to make the best decision to address your specific needs.
Call Allied Roofing Solutions for a Free Estimate
If you think you may need to replace your roof, contact us. Our team of professional roofers can perform a roof inspection to see the work that will be involved. Whether you need a roof repair or replacement, we will provide a premium level of service. Call us at (201) 773-0633 or complete the free estimate form to schedule an appointment.