Roof replacement — planning ranges for 2026

What a new roof typically runs based on your home size, material, and roof complexity.

Updated April 2026

Ranges generally assume materials, labor, tear-off of one existing layer, disposal, and standard flashing unless otherwise noted. Actual estimates may include or exclude permits, decking replacement, ventilation upgrades, ice and water shield, chimney work, skylights, gutters, access equipment, and local code-related requirements. Ranges reflect national averages — your area may be 15–30% higher or lower.

Typical ranges by material (per roofing square)

Roofing is priced per "square" — one square = 100 square feet of roof area. As a rough planning shortcut, roof area is often estimated at about 1.2–1.5× the home’s floor area, but actual roof size depends on pitch, overhangs, stories, valleys, dormers, garages, additions, and layout.

MaterialPer square (typical range)Lifespan
3-tab asphalt shingles$300 – $45015–20 years
Architectural asphalt shingles$400 – $60025–30 years
Standing seam metal$700 – $1,20040–60 years
Metal panels (exposed fastener)$400 – $70025–40 years
Concrete tile$800 – $1,40040–60 years
Clay tile$1,000 – $1,80050–100 years
Slate$1,200 – $2,50075–150 years
Flat/TPO/EPDM$350 – $70015–25 years

Typical ranges by home size (architectural asphalt)

These ranges assume moderate roof pitch (6/12), one story, standard complexity, and tear-off of one layer.

Home size (floor area)Est. roof squaresTypical installed range
1,000 – 1,500 SF15 – 22$5,500 – $10,000
1,500 – 2,000 SF22 – 30$8,000 – $14,000
2,000 – 2,500 SF28 – 38$10,000 – $18,000
2,500 – 3,000 SF35 – 45$13,000 – $22,000
3,000 – 4,000 SF42 – 60$16,000 – $30,000
4,000+ SF55+$22,000+

Estimate your roof range

$10,000 – $18,000
~30 squares × $400–$600/sq • moderate pitch • 1 layer tear-off

What affects the range

FactorTypical impact
Steep pitch (8/12+)15–25% over standard
2-story vs 1-story15–25% (access, safety equipment)
Second layer tear-off$1,000 – $3,000 additional
Rotted decking replacement$50 – $100 per sheet (4×8)
Complex roof (valleys, dormers, skylights)15–30% over simple
Ice & water shield (cold climates)$500 – $1,500
New gutters with roof$800 – $2,500
Chimney flashing rebuild$300 – $800
Skylight replacement (while open)$500 – $1,500 each
Ridge vent install$300 – $600

Repair vs replace

ItemTypical range
Minor patch repair$200 – $800
Flashing repair$200 – $600
Soffit repair$300 – $900
Chimney cap install$150 – $400
Gutter repair$100 – $350

When to repair vs replace

Age is the biggest factor. Asphalt shingle roofs typically last 20–30 years (architectural) or 15–20 years (3-tab). If an asphalt roof is relatively young and damage appears isolated, repairs may be worth discussing with a qualified roofer or independent inspector before pricing a full replacement. If the roof is older and showing multiple warning signs, it may be worth comparing repair costs against replacement options:

Curling or buckling shingles. Missing shingles after storms. Granules accumulating in gutters. Daylight visible through attic boards. Multiple active leaks. Sagging roof deck. Moss or algae growth covering large areas.

Consider getting an independent roof inspector ($200–$400) to assess your roof before calling roofing companies. Consider getting an independent roof inspection before requesting replacement bids, especially if you are unsure whether repair or replacement is appropriate.
Installing new shingles over existing ones without inspecting the decking can hide rot. Installing new shingles over existing roofing without evaluating the decking can hide moisture damage or rot. If the decking is compromised, the new roof system may fail earlier than expected. Tear-off can add cost, but it allows the contractor to inspect the roof deck condition. Tear-off adds cost but reveals the real condition.

Regional variation

These ranges are national averages. Your actual cost depends on your market:

RegionMultiplier vs national avg
Northeast / Mid-Atlantic major metros1.25–1.40×
West Coast metro (SF, LA, Seattle)1.20–1.35×
Midwest (Chicago, Detroit, Minneapolis)0.90–1.00×
Southeast (Atlanta, Charlotte, Tampa)0.85–0.95×
Southwest (Phoenix, Dallas, Houston)0.90–1.00×
Rural / suburban0.80–0.90×
Use the free Cost Lookup — 264 items with regional pricing →

Based on national trade data, supplier pricing, and contractor experience. Updated April 2026. All ranges are for planning purposes only — not a quote or guarantee. Actual costs vary by region, scope, access, materials, and contractor. Get multiple written estimates for your specific project.