If you need a new roof, you may be nervous about how much it will cost you. The prices of roof installments can vary greatly, and it can be hard to determine how much you’ll need to spend on yours. Here’s what roofing contractors take into account when giving you a price estimate:
1. Roof Size
The most important thing that dictates the price of your roof is its size. Generally speaking, the larger your roof is, the more it will cost. A larger surface area means you’ll have to get more materials if you want to replace the whole roof. Additionally, construction workers will need more time to finish the job. That’s why you can generally expect to pay more for a roof if you have a big house or if your roof has plenty of surface area.
2. Roof Pitch or Slope
There are two reasons steep roofs may cost more. Firstly, tying into your homes size, the more steep your roof, the more surface area it has, thus requiring more material. Second, the more steep your roof, the more dangerous it is to work on, which increases the cost of labor. A steep roof will require more safety precautions from your contractor and the construction workers.
3. Materials Used
The price of your roof will vary greatly based on which materials you choose. If you want an inexpensive option, asphalt shingles can be a great choice. They are quite affordable and durable, making them a popular option. However, if you’re willing to spend a little more, go for metal. Although more expensive, metal offers a much greater durability and can sometimes double the life of your new roof. Not to mention the great look!
4. Roof Accessibility
Is your roof surrounded by trees? Do you have a narrow or steep driveway? Is your home otherwise difficult to reach? In that case, you can expect some additional expenses. During your consultation, your contractor should be able to let you know if your home may have any of these circumstances or others that could contribute to the cost of your new roof.
5. Architecture
The design of your home can create difficult to roof sections. Think about it, you never start designing a house with the roof. After the floor plan is decided, engineers create a roof structure to cover your home. This process can create valleys, ridges, and wall areas that will all need to be flashed to properly divert water. Not to mention chimneys and other penetrations. The additional care and attention these areas require will increase the overall duration of your project and result in a higher cost.
6. Removal of Your Old Roof
Before you put on new shingles, you must tear off the old ones. However, this process takes time and effort. It may be tempting to remove the shingles yourself, but that can be dangerous, and you may damage your roof in the process. Skilled roofers have the proper equipment and know how to remove and dispose of old shingles properly.
Do I Need to Hire a Roofer?
If you want to replace your roof, it’s integral to hire an experienced contractor. Although they can be more expensive, skilled roofers offer a better service. Therefore, you can rest assured knowing you won’t have roof problems anytime soon, saving you money in the long run. If you want to know more about how much a roof replacement for your home may cost, contact us now. Simply fill out a form on our website, and we’ll provide you with a free estimate.
