Asphalt Roof Cost: Four Things You Should Know
How much do you know about asphalt roof cost? You can read about some important facts associated with getting an asphalt roof.
If you’re looking to replace your roof with a new one, you’re not alone. Roofing replacements make up to 94% of the total value in North American roofing projects, according to LinkedIn.
COMPARE QUOTESOne popular roof choice is the asphalt roof, which gives sleek look to a home and is an affordable choice to install. But just how much does an asphalt roof cost?
Below we’ve included a guide explaining 4 things you should know about asphalt shingle roof installation. For example, asphalt roof cost depends on the type of material used and the size of your home.
1. Low-End vs High-End Costs
The cost of an asphalt roof will depend on the solution you’re looking for.
Low-end costs for an asphalt roof will cost between $3-$4 per square foot for a one-story house with no valleys or penetrations. It will include basic architectural asphalt shingles with an underlayment of other roof components. You’ll also get a basic manufacturer’s warranty on the asphalt shingles.
The average cost of an asphalt roof will be closer to $5 per square foot for a two-story home with little complexity. Your asphalt shingle will be of good architectural quality here and you will get all of the manufacturer’s roofing components. You also will get an upgraded underlayment and enhanced manufacturer’s warranty.
The higher end of an asphalt roof will cost you between $7 to $8 per square foot for a two-story home with more complex features and is not easily accessible. You will have asphalt shingles in addition to all of the manufacturer’s roofing components. You will also get copper valleys, copper flashing, and the enhanced manufacturer’s warranty.
The cost for your foot will depend on the upgrades or downgrades you choose, as well as the types of shingles.
2. Installation Labor and Method
Labor and time will be the two main factors taken into consideration for determining the price of a new roof.
The labor cost will depend on the crew’s skill level, experience, and what they end up getting done in one day. Time will also determine the price. If your roof is complex and hard to access, it will cost more for the additional skill and manpower.
You also can choose between different installation methods. Your choices will be using the hand nailed or air nailed method, both of which are effective.
Most roofing companies will use the air nailed method because it’s cheaper and faster. Hand nailing checks every nail to ensure it’s in the proper place before nailing it in. A well-trained nailer may even be able to go as fast as someone with an air gun.
Hand nailing will cost you more money, but the skill and extra labor are worth it because you know your roof will be installed properly.
3. You Won’t Save Much by DIYing
Replacing a roof yourself can cost anywhere between a few thousand to almost $10,000. This will be significantly lower in cost than hiring a professional would be, but it’s likely not worth it.
Replacing a roof requires a very specific skill set. Someone with regular DIY skills is not equipped for this job.
First, removing old shingles is difficult and must be done properly to avoid damaging your home.
The job is also dangerous if you lose your balance or lose your line of sight, which could cause you to fall off the roof. Roofing fatalities increased by 15% from 2018 to 2019, so it’s important that you consider if you’re ready to put yourself in that dangerous of a situation.
The project also involves more than just removing and installing shingles. You have to insulate the roof, set up the gutter, and deal with other structural problems before adding shingles.
Your insurance company won’t reimburse you for roof repairs or replacement unless you’re a licensed roof contractor, and you’ll probably need to get a permit before you work.
All of these added factors will save you both more time and likely more money in the long run if you hire a professional.
COMPARE QUOTES4. Consider Roof Size, Complexity, and Accessibility
Asphalt roof cost will depend on the factors of your roof like its size, complexity, and accessibility.
A large roof with many hips, valleys, and pitches will cost much more to install than one that’s flat across like a simple ranch-style roof. Workers will need more skill and time to lay shingles down properly.
A roof with a steep pitch is more difficult to install than one that can be done in a few hours by laying shingles flat across its surface.
The height of the roof will affect the cost because taller grooves will require more precautions. Installers will move slower and more carefully to maintain their safety, which will add time and cost to the job.
You’ve heard us mention roof penetrations a few times. Roof penetrations are anything that comes out of your roof, such as:
- Gas vents
- Kitchen vents
- Skylights
- Chimneys
Larger penetrations will take longer to work around so they will add to the cost of a roof.
Lastly, consider your roof’s accessibility. Is there a fence or a lot of landscaping around your house that makes it hard to reach? Are the materials and dump trucks far away?
Homes with lots of shrubbery and a driveway that is far away from where the installers can access your roof will cost you more. They’ll have a lot more time in getting on your roof and getting materials during the process.
Understanding Asphalt Roof Cost
From the size of your home to the types of shingles you use, asphalt roof cost will depend on a number of factors. It’s a good idea to get in touch with a professional to get a true understanding of the cost.
Want to learn more about roof installation and home improvement? Contact us for a quote.
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Thanks for pointing out how hiring a roofer makes it easier to choose and install a roofing system that suits your needs. My brother wants to protect his new countryside home from various weather elements. Perhaps seeking out these experts can help him achieve this.