Roofing Material Prices

Installing a new roof costs between $5,000 and $10,000 on average. Prices vary depending on several factors, as discussed in-depth below. If you’re not sure where to start, local roofing contractors can offer quotes to set your budget by.

1. Cost of Roofing Materials

Materials	Cost Per Square(material only)	Lifespan(in years)
Plastic Polymer	$400 – $1,200	35 – 50
Clay Tile	$800 – $1,800	75+
Concrete Tile	$150 – $250	30 – 50
Slate	$800 – $1,800	125 – 200
Wood (cedar)	$250 – $600	15 – 30
Asphalt	$100 – $150	15 – 30
Metal	$120 – $900	50+

The material you choose for your new roof is the biggest factor in your final cost but don’t forget to consider the expected lifespan. You may save money in the long run by opting for a more expensive option now. For example, the cost of a metal vs. asphalt roof may be mitigated by the extra 20 years it’s estimated to last.

Learn more about some of the most common types here:

Plastic polymer shingles cost $400-$1,200 per square and come in styles that imitate wood, tile and slate.
Clay tiles cost $800-$2,500 per square. They are made of natural clay and resemble what you’d see on an Italian or Spanish home, though some varieties mimic wood shake or slate tile.
Slate tiles cost $500 to $1,700 per square and come in a wide variety of colors and styles.
Wood shake costs $250 to $600 per square. It is a natural material, often made from cedar and redwood, which helps it resist rot during inclement weather.
Concrete tiles cost: $150-$250 per square. This style mimics the look of wood or ceramic tiles but are more durable and fire-resistant.
Metal roofs cost: $300-$1,800 per square and is highly dependent on the type of metal you choose.
Asphalt shingles cost: $100-$150 per square. This is one of the most common roofing types in the United States due to its cost and ease of installation.

2. Factors That Impact Roofing Costs

When installing a roof, there are various other factors that play into the price. Some factors you should consider are:

Accessibility: If your roof is difficult to access, has power lines nearby or tree branches, the rate to install or replace it will increase.
Type of home: The taller your house is, the more expensive it will be because of the danger involved with the height.
Structural issues: If the framework is damaged, you’ll pay additional charges to have it repaired before installation proceeds.
Permits and licenses: The cost to obtain permits and the proper licenses could play into the total price of your installation.
Location: Labor rates vary greatly across the United States.
Re-Roofing vs. Replacement: In some cases, you can install new shingles over the old ones. This is known as re-roofing and is often less expensive. However, this method may be too heavy for the decking structure.
Warranties: Manufacturer’s warranties cover defects in the materials and contractor’s warranties cover installation problems. Read each of them carefully to learn what’s covered and what isn’t.
Gutters and Flashing: Replacing gutters and flashing will cost you more up front, but is often less expensive than having them installed as separate projects.