Asphalt shingles reign as the predominant roofing material in American homes, boasting widespread usage and a myriad of advantages, including their cost-effectiveness. The shingle roof cost is a key consideration for homeowners, as it contributes to the overall affordability of asphalt shingles.
With a lifespan of approximately 20 years, they offer a remarkable blend of longevity, simplicity of installation, and affordability, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious individuals. The market is teeming with various types of asphalt shingles, each meticulously described to facilitate informed decision-making tailored to your specific home.
We offer valuable money-saving tips and comprehensive cost breakdowns for each shingle type, allowing you to assess the shingle roof cost and make an informed choice that aligns with your budget and needs.
Shingle Roof Cost
Installing new shingles can be expensive. The average cost of a shingle roof on a 2,000-square-foot home with a seven-inch slope is $5,994 to $9,791. This price is for asphalt shingles. Other shingle options are more expensive.
The price of your roof depends on two factors:
- Square Footage: Your roof’s square footage determines the material and labor cost for installing new shingles.
- Shingle Material: Most commonly, shingles are made from asphalt. However, they can also be made with higher-quality materials.
Cost Per Square Foot
The size of your home is not the only factor that affects the cost. Asphalt shingles only make up a small portion of the overall cost.
| Roof Size (Square Feet) | Asphalt Shingles Only | Materials and Installation |
| 1,200 | $2,040-$3,600 | $4,382-$6,447 |
| 1,500 | $2,500-$4,500 | $5,478-$8,059 |
| 2,000 | $3,400-$5,600 | $5,994-$9,791 |
| 2,500 | $4,250-$7,500 | $8,544-$12,537 |
| 3,000 | $5,100-$9,000 | $10,112-$14,830 |
| 3,500 | $5,950-$10,500 | $11,756-$16,969 |
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Shingles Costs by Type
Asphalt shingles come in different types, such as basic, architectural premium, and composite. Additionally, metal, wood, and stone are alternative materials that can be used to make shingles, although they are usually more expensive.
| Shingle Material | Total Price per Square Foot |
| Aluminum Shingles | $8.50-$13.75 |
| Architectural Asphalt Shingles | $4.50-$12.25 |
| Basic Asphalt Shingles | $4.25-$8.25 |
| Composite shingles | $7.50-$13.00 |
| Slate Shingles | $12.00-$22.00 |
| Steel Shingles | $8.00-$12.65 |
| Wood Shakes or Shingles | $8.00-$14.30 |
Aluminum Shingles Cost
Aluminum singles cost between $8.50 and $13.75 per square foot. These shingles have high durability and are incredibly lightweight, making them very easy to maintain. They have a lifespan of between 50 and 80 years.
Architectural Asphalt Shingles Cost
Architectural roofing shingles are made with a ceramic-coated base and heavy fiberglass. These shingles are of higher quality and more resistant to water compared to standard asphalt shingles. Architectural asphalt shingles are priced between $4.50 and $12.25 per square foot. This price fluctuates depending on oil prices, as asphalt is produced by refining petroleum.”
Basic Asphalt Shingles Cost
You’re probably familiar with these shingles. They are available in standard colors such as black, gray, and brown. The average cost of basic three-tab asphalt tiles is between $4.25 and $8.25 per square foot. These shingles are easy to maintain and have a lifespan of 15-20 years. They are inexpensive, durable, and long-lasting.
Composite Shingles Cost
Composite shingles, also known as synthetic shingles, are made of a combination of asphalt, fiberglass, and recycled paper. The design of these shingles makes them resistant to fire and moisture. On average, composite shingles can last up to 50 years, and their cost ranges between $7.50 and $13 per square foot.
Slate Shingles Cost
Slate roofing is a durable material that can last for over 100 years. The shingles of slate roofs are cut from natural stone. Due to the heavy weight of this material, additional supports may be required for your roof. The result will be a natural stone roof that not only lasts for over a hundred years but also adds significant curb appeal. The average cost of slate shingles is $12 to $22 per square foot.
Steel Shingles Cost
“Steel shingles provide a durable finish for your home. These shingles are often similar to concrete or clay tiles, but they offer greater energy efficiency and durability. Their average lifespan is 40-70 years. Steel shingles are priced between $8 and $12.65 per square foot.
Wood Shakes/Shingles Cost
Wooden roofs can be made with wood shingles, wood shakes, or a simple wooden shingle made of split logs. Both options range from $8.00 to $14.30 per square foot. The main difference lies in style. Wood shingles have a more modern and clean-cut appearance, while wood shakes offer a rustic and natural look. Both wood shingles and shakes have a lifespan of approximately 40-50 years.
Solar Shingles Cost
Solar shingles are a new alternative to traditional solar panels. They mimic roofing materials and don’t look like typical solar panels, making them a great alternative for homeowners. Solar roofs can last for up to 20 years and cost between $20 and $30 per square foot. These roofs are made by well-known brands like Tesla. Solar shingles may be more expensive than some other roof options; however, the federal tax credit can reduce your installation costs by 30%. Additionally, you can reduce your energy costs by switching to solar.
Factors Affecting Cost
The square footage and the roofing material determine your final price. However, there are other costs that you should consider.
Additional Services
You can do other home improvement projects while you are having your new roof installed. These would normally require you to tear off some or all of your roof.
- Attic fan installation: $300-$900
- Flashing Replacement: $200 to $500
- New gutters: $1,000-$6,500
- Skylight installation: $1,600-$4,200
Brand
The affordability of different brands and their pricing will be determined by the quality of the shingles and the materials used. Owens Corning, GAF, and IKO are examples of more affordable brands, while Tamko and IKO have slightly higher prices.
Labor
Installing a new roof typically accounts for about 60% of the total cost. Any factors that make the installation more difficult or time-consuming will result in a higher price. Roofs with steep slopes or challenging accessibility tend to cost more. Additionally, if the project involves working around skylights or dormers, it may cause delays and increase costs.
Repair
Installing a new roof involves more than just laying down new shingles. In addition to the outer layer, it is usually necessary to repair or replace the decking and underlayment. The cost of roof repairs varies greatly depending on the extent of repairs or replacements needed. Vents and ridge caps are typically the lowest cost items, while repairs or reinforcements to rafter tails, eaves, and trusses can be more expensive.
Shingle Removal
Before installing new shingles, the old shingles need to be removed, and all debris must be cleared. The cost of removing old materials typically ranges between $1 and $5 per square foot.
Warranty Coverage
The majority of major roofing brands offer limited warranties for their products. These warranties are typically based on the age of the roof and cover only the materials. Some manufacturers may also include coverage for labor if you use one of their approved roofers. We recommend checking the warranty for any exclusions, such as labor, workmanship, or certification requirements for installers. It’s important to note that home warranties do not typically cover roof replacement, but some may provide limited coverage for roof leaks.
Shingle Material
The price of shingles varies depending on the material, as some materials are easier to install and more readily available than others. For example, asphalt shingles are more common, making them easier to locate and less expensive. On the other hand, metal roofing is more expensive due to its scarcity and challenging installation process. The same applies to unique roofing materials such as slate shingles or wood shingles.
Height and Pitch
The slope and height of your roof determine the number of shingles needed and the level of difficulty for the roofer during installation. Due to the challenges and potential risks associated with working on a roof, a higher pitch or height will result in higher labor costs.
Cost of Installing a Shingle Roof by Location
The cost of shingle roofs varies by region, similar to other home improvement projects. Areas with a higher cost of living generally have higher prices for roof replacement. In general, roof replacement costs in rural areas are typically lower than those in coastal or urban locations.
Here is a breakdown of the average cost for shingle installations in different states;
- Arizona: $5,500-$10,000
- California: $6,000-$16,000
- Colorado: $6,000-$13,000
- Florida: $8,000-$16,500
- Georgia: $6,500-$10,000
- Maryland: $4,500-$10,000
- Michigan: $6,500-$12,000
- Ohio: $6,000-$15,000
- Texas: $5,800-$10,600
- Washington: $7,000-$14,500
Replace Shingles vs New Roof
Replacing an entire roof can be costly. In some cases, it may be possible to replace only the damaged part of the existing roof. Repair is often preferred if your roof is less than 10 years old and the damage is limited to a specific area. However, replacing the entire roof may be more cost-effective if your roof is older, has widespread structural problems, or if you plan to sell your home soon. Replacing large sections of an old roof in phases will be more expensive compared to a one-time replacement cost.
Signs That You Need to Replace Your Roof Shingles
These are signs that you might need to replace your roof tiles:
- Broken, bent, or cracked shingles
- Lack of granules in gutters
- Water damage to ceilings or attics
- Moss on roof
- Rust or wear around vents, pipes, or chimneys
- Dark spots or buckles
Professionals vs. Do-It-Yourself
Most DIYers can handle replacing a few shingles. However, applying shingles to an entire roof is significantly more challenging and dangerous. Poorly installed shingles can cause significant damage to the roof structure. Here’s a comparison between DIY and professional installation.
Professional Shingle Installation
Professional roofing companies have the necessary tools, expertise, and workforce to efficiently and correctly complete the job. Labor costs constitute a significant portion of the roof installation cost due to the specialized nature of the work. Professional roofers are knowledgeable about meeting building codes and adjusting roof pitches as needed. Additionally, most roofing contractors provide warranties for their work.
DIY Shingle Installation
If you plan to undertake a DIY shingle installation, you will also require roofing nails, fasteners, and the shingles themselves. It is important to note that these steps are specifically for shingle installations and assume that the roof decking is in good condition and all necessary flashing, underlayment, vents, and drip edges have already been installed.
- Measure from the bottom edge of the eave and snap a chalk line to indicate the location of your starter row, ensuring it completely covers the drip edge.
- Begin applying the shingles from the outer edge, using four nails to securely fasten each three-tab shingle to the one next to it.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for staggering the tabs. When reaching the third row of shingles, cut off 12 inches.
- Continue working towards the roof valleys. Once all rows are completed, draw a chalk line down the middle of the roof valley. Carefully cut the shingles along the line and seal them with roofing cement.
- Optionally, apply cap shingles to the tops of peaks or create your own using standard shingles.
Savings on Shingle Roof Prices
You can save money by installing a new roof with shingles, even if a professional does the job.
- Select roofing materials that are on sale or available at a lower price. However, be cautious about choosing inferior materials, as they may end up costing you more in the long run.
- If permitted by your state regulations, consider applying a new layer of shingles without removing the old ones. This can help you save money on disposal and removal costs.
- Hire professional roofers during the off-season, typically late fall or early spring, when their services are in less demand. This can potentially result in cost savings.
- Before making a decision, compare quotes from at least three roofing contractors to ensure you get the best value for your money.
- Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to prolonging the lifespan of your roof and preventing potential issues.
Budget Shopping
A budget can help you when shopping for a new roof. You can use this to compare quotes and determine which materials are best. This is a breakdown of what type of shingles to buy based on your budget:
- Budget less than $5,000: Basic asphalt shingles are a good choice for affordability and availability. Consider three-tab asphalt shingles as an overlay to save money on removal and disposal costs. Note that overlays can add weight and void the manufacturer’s warranty.
- Budget of $5,000 to $15,000: You have flexibility in choosing the roof type. For an average-sized home, consider metal roofing or higher-quality asphalt roof shingles.
- Budgets above $15,000: Consider high-end materials such as slate, wood shakes, and solar roofing.
Conclusion
Asphalt shingles are widely regarded as the most popular roofing material. While they may be less durable compared to some other options, they are the ideal choice for homeowners seeking budget-friendly solutions. To maximize the lifespan of your shingles, it is advisable to select higher-quality ones and have them professionally installed.
We recommend obtaining multiple estimates from professionals for roof replacements and repairs that involve more than just a few shingles. It is essential to hire a trustworthy contractor for the job.
When it comes to roofing solutions, All Star Roofing stands out as your trusted partner. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing top-quality services that exceed your expectations. With our extensive experience and commitment to excellence, we ensure your roof is in safe hands.
Choose All Star Roofing for exceptional service, reliability, and peace of mind. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us showcase our expertise in keeping your home safe and secure.
Other Services We Offer
- ROOF INSTALLATION
- RE-ROOFING
- SHINGLE ROOFS
- TILE ROOFING
- FLAT ROOFING
- METAL ROOFING
- EMERGENCY ROOF REPAIR
- HURRICANE HELP