Are you concerned that your roof needs replacing but have no idea what it will cost? If you see signs of wear, including water leakage, or curling or cracked shingles, you could be risking extensive damage to your home.
When it comes to getting a new roof, you need to know how much it will cost. Estimating how much you might pay may seem straightforward, but there are many factors that could impact the total bill. Fortunately, using the information below and an online new roof cost calculator, you can know what to expect.
Roof Replacement Variables
There are two main factors to consider when looking at roof replacement costs: materials and labor. There are other variables that can come into play, including location, time of year, and the economy. But the type of roof you get and the amount of time and effort it takes to install are the main factors that will impact the cost.
Materials
Replacing a roof requires a lot of supplies. These include nails, flashing, and the many parts of the underlayment, which keeps your home safe from leaks and mold.
But the main component of any roof is of course the shingles. These can cost between $1.50 and $15 per square foot, depending on the material used. For a 1,500 square foot roof, that could mean anywhere from $2,000 to $22,000 in shingle costs alone.
There are some main categories of shingle material to consider that can help you narrow it down. According to Angie’s List, asphalt is the most affordable option, followed by wood, metal, tile, and slate. For a rough estimate of the price range, you can expect to pay twice as much for metal as asphalt. Slate will cost you as much as five times more.
If you are undecided about what shingle material is best for your roof, consider selecting a company that offers different options. For instance, DMV Exteriors, based in Sandy Spring, Maryland, and servicing Montgomery, Rockville, Columbia, and Howard Counties, offers asphalt, metal, tile, and many wood options for your roof.
A prominent company like this one will be able to instruct you on the best material for your home, based on your location and the environment surrounding your roof.
Labor
While materials account for a good portion of the roof cost, according to Home Advisor, labor can amount to 60 percent of the total price tag. There are several things to consider in this regard.
The layout of your roof will have a lot to do with total labor costs. For instance, adding flashing around chimneys, skylights, or vents that protrude from the roof is a meticulous task. Repairing rotten wood or other parts of the roof structure may also be required. Such projects will add to the time it takes to replace your roof, and will incur a greater cost.
Recycling or disposal of old shingles and underlayment is a huge component of roof replacement labor costs as well. Hauling away your old roof is no menial task. It is usually quoted in a roof replacement estimate but is something you will want to keep in mind.
There are some mechanisms that can help keep labor costs down. For example, DMV Exteriors uses “articulating buggies,” which are 12-foot lifts that allow the collection of up to 4,000 pounds of debris from your roof. This method increases safety by keeping rubble from falling onto your landscaping, family, or pets. It also improves efficiency, while keeping your property more orderly. They are the only company that offers this service in the Sandy Spring area.
Use a New Roof Cost Calculator
Making use of online resources is an easy way to start estimating roof replacement costs without leaving your home. Read online reviews about companies and see what other customers are saying. Be sure the company you choose has a good track record of service. You can check with your state consumer protection agency to ensure that a roofing company is licensed and insured.
Also, tools like this handy new roof cost calculator and guide can help steer you in the right direction. It will generate a range of costs based on material and labor. And the estimates are particular to Sandy Spring, or wherever your home may be. It will let you know what you can expect to pay before you even reach out to a prospective contractor.
Request a Quote Today
Calculating roof replacement cost can be tedious, but do not let is stand in the way of getting the repairs you need. A reputable roofing company, like DMV Exteriors, will let you know upfront what the cost of a roof repair or replacement will be through a free quote. So, you have nothing to lose by getting this information. Also, they may offer special financing for larger projects.
Taking advantage of these offers and using a new roof cost calculator will give you a range of what your new project may cost. It can be the first step toward getting a roof that will keep your home dry and safe.