How Your Calculator Selections Affect Roof Price
Two houses on the same street can have very different roof replacement prices. Here's why—and what to expect when these factors apply to your home.
1
Roof Size
Roofers measure in "squares"—one square equals 100 square feet. A 2,000 square foot roof is 20 squares. More squares means more materials and more labor hours. This is the single biggest factor in roof replacement price.
2
Roof Pitch (Steepness)
A low-slope roof is easier and safer to walk on. A steep roof requires harnesses, toe boards, and slower work. Labor costs increase as pitch increases—not because crews are being difficult, but because the work genuinely takes longer and requires more equipment.
3
Stories and Access
Single-story homes are straightforward. Two or three stories mean longer ladder setups, more material hauling, and sometimes scaffolding. If your roof is hard to reach from the driveway, that adds time too.
4
Tear-Off Layers
Building codes typically allow two layers of shingles maximum. If you already have two layers, both come off before the new roof goes on. Double tear-off means double the labor and disposal costs for that portion of the job.
5
Decking Condition
Here's the unknown that makes every estimate a range rather than a fixed number. The decking—those plywood or OSB boards under your shingles—might be fine, or might have soft spots, rot, or water damage. We can sometimes spot warning signs from the attic, but full assessment happens during tear-off. Decking repairs add material and labor costs.
6
Penetrations and Details
Every skylight, vent pipe, chimney, and valley needs custom flashing work. A simple gable roof with two slopes and minimal penetrations costs less than a complex roof with six different planes, three skylights, and multiple dormers.
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