Roof Replacement Cost: What Changes The Estimate

What drives the number

We do not publish price ranges, because a made-up range helps nobody. Here is what an honest estimate is actually built from.

• ✓Size and steepness. Bigger and steeper takes longer and needs more safety work.
• ✓Layers to tear off. Two old layers cost more to remove and haul away.
• ✓The wood deck. Bad plywood or board sheathing has to be replaced.
• ✓Material. Basic shingle, designer shingle, standing seam metal, cedar and slate are very different jobs.
• ✓Details. Chimneys, skylights, dormers, valleys and wall flashing all add labor.
• ✓Extras you may want at the same time, like gutters, ventilation or snow guards.
• ✓Permits and disposal.

Why two estimates can look so different

One may include new flashing and deck repair while the other plans to reuse old metal and hopes the wood is fine. Compare what is written down, not just the total.

Questions to ask every roofer

• ✓Is flashing replaced or reused?
• ✓What happens if you find bad plywood, and at what price per sheet?
• ✓Who handles the permit?
• ✓What warranty covers the workmanship, and what covers the material?
• ✓Who is actually on my roof, your crew or a subcontractor?

How our estimate works

We walk the roof, check the attic where we can, photograph the problems, and hand you a written price. That appointment usually takes about an hour and it costs nothing.

Questions people ask