Roofing Calculator
Estimated Total Cost
$6,750 – $13,500
$4.50 – $9.00 per sq ft (installed)
Material
$3,000 – $6,000
Labor
$3,750 – $7,500
Roof Area
1,500 sq ft
Material
Architectural Shingles
Tip: Get at least 3 quotes from licensed roofing contractors. Prices vary significantly by region, season, and roof complexity. Ask about manufacturer warranties and workmanship guarantees.
Disclaimer: Estimates are for budgeting purposes only. Actual costs vary by location, contractor, material availability, and project complexity. Always get professional quotes for exact pricing.
Roofing Cost Breakdown
| Material | Material / Sq Ft | Labor / Sq Ft | Total / Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Tab Asphalt | $1.50 – $3.00 | $2.00 – $4.00 | $3.50 – $7.00 |
| Architectural Shingles | $2.00 – $4.00 | $2.50 – $5.00 | $4.50 – $9.00 |
| Metal (Standing Seam) | $4.00 – $8.00 | $4.00 – $8.00 | $8.00 – $16.00 |
| Clay / Concrete Tile | $4.00 – $10.00 | $5.00 – $10.00 | $9.00 – $20.00 |
| Slate | $8.00 – $16.00 | $7.00 – $14.00 | $15.00 – $30.00 |
* Costs shown for new construction (1.0× labor). Tear-off (1 layer) adds 15%, tear-off (2 layers) adds 30% to labor.
Average Project Costs (New Construction)
| Home Size | Roof Area | Material | Estimated Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Home | 1,000 sq ft | 3-Tab Asphalt | $3,500 – $7,000 |
| Ranch | 1,500 sq ft | Architectural | $6,750 – $13,500 |
| Two-Story | 2,000 sq ft | Architectural | $9,000 – $18,000 |
| Large Home | 3,000 sq ft | Metal | $24,000 – $48,000 |
How We Calculate
Our roofing calculator estimates project costs based on roof area, roofing material, and project type. Material and labor costs are calculated per square foot, with labor adjusted by a project type multiplier.
How the math works: Material cost = area × material price per sq ft. Labor cost = area × labor rate per sq ft × project type multiplier. Total = material + labor. The multiplier adjusts labor: new construction is 1.0×, tear-off & replace (1 layer) adds 15% (1.15×), and tear-off (2 layers) adds 30% (1.3×) for extra demolition and disposal.
Roofing Material Comparison
3-Tab Asphalt Shingles ($1.50–$3.00/sq ft material, $2.00–$4.00/sq ft labor) are the most affordable roofing option. Flat, uniform appearance. Lifespan: 15–20 years. Good for budget-conscious projects.
Architectural Shingles ($2.00–$4.00/sq ft material, $2.50–$5.00/sq ft labor) are the most popular choice. Dimensional appearance with better wind resistance (110–130 mph). Lifespan: 25–30 years. Best value for most homes.
Metal (Standing Seam) ($4.00–$8.00/sq ft material, $4.00–$8.00/sq ft labor) offers exceptional durability and energy efficiency. Reflects heat to reduce cooling costs 10–25%. Lifespan: 40–70 years. Lightweight and fire-resistant.
Clay / Concrete Tile ($4.00–$10.00/sq ft material, $5.00–$10.00/sq ft labor) provides premium aesthetics and fire resistance. Very heavy — requires structural verification. Lifespan: 50–100+ years. Popular in Southwest and Mediterranean styles.
Slate ($8.00–$16.00/sq ft material, $7.00–$14.00/sq ft labor) is the most premium and longest-lasting roofing. Natural stone beauty. Requires specialized craftsmen. Lifespan: 75–200 years.
Additional Cost Factors
Our estimates cover roofing material and installation labor. Not included: underlayment ($0.15–$0.75/sq ft), flashing and drip edge ($1–$5/LF), ridge vents ($2–$5/LF), plywood decking replacement ($2–$4/sq ft where needed), old roofing disposal ($1–$2/sq ft), permit fees ($100–$500), and chimney or skylight flashing ($200–$500 each).
Data Sources
Pricing data is compiled from HomeAdvisor, Angi, roofing manufacturers, and verified contractor estimates across multiple US regions. We review and update this data regularly.
Last updated: 2026-02-02
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a new roof cost? +
A new roof costs $3.50–$30 per square foot installed, depending on material. 3-tab asphalt shingles are $3.50–$7/sq ft, architectural shingles $4.50–$9/sq ft, metal $8–$16/sq ft, tile $9–$20/sq ft, and slate $15–$30/sq ft. A typical 1,500 sq ft roof costs $6,750–$13,500 with architectural shingles.
What is the best roofing material? +
Architectural asphalt shingles offer the best value at $4.50–$9/sq ft with 25–30 year warranties. Metal roofing ($8–$16/sq ft) is best for longevity (40–70 years) and energy savings. Tile and slate are premium options for specific architectural styles.
How long does a roof last? +
3-tab shingles last 15–20 years, architectural shingles 25–30 years, metal 40–70 years, tile 50–100+ years, and slate 75–200 years. Proper ventilation, quality underlayment, and regular maintenance extend lifespan significantly.
Should I repair or replace my roof? +
Repair if damage is localized and the roof is less than 15 years old ($300–$1,500 typical repair). Replace if more than 25% of shingles are damaged, the roof is 20+ years old, or you see widespread leaking. Multiple repairs often cost more than replacement long-term.
Does a new roof increase home value? +
Yes, a new roof recovers 60–70% of its cost at resale per Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value report. It also improves curb appeal, passes home inspections, and may reduce insurance premiums by 10–20%.
How much does it cost to tear off and replace a roof? +
Tear-off adds 15% to labor costs for single-layer removal or 30% for two layers. A 1,500 sq ft roof with architectural shingles costs approximately $7,763–$15,525 including single-layer tear-off vs. $6,750–$13,500 for new construction.
Can I roof over existing shingles? +
Building codes allow a maximum of two layers of asphalt shingles. Roofing over saves $1–$3/sq ft in tear-off costs but adds weight, may void warranties, hides deck damage, and shortens new roof lifespan. Most contractors recommend full tear-off for best results.
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