Understanding Roof Replacement: How Much Does a New Roof Cost?

If your roof is leaking, looks dated, or is just worn out, it’s time to consider a roof replacement. Chances are your first question is, “How much does a new roof cost?”

Many factors play into the cost of roof replacement, including a few you may not have considered. Here, we’ll break down the costs associated with roof replacement and help you decide if it’s time to invest in a new roof.

4 Factors that Influence the Cost of a New Roof

Whenever we visit with a customer to assess their home improvement costs, we carefully measure and break down all the factors that influence the price of a new roof.

1. Roof Size

The size of the roof is, of course, one of the most critical factors in determining the cost of roof replacement. A sizeable ranch-style house is going to need more materials to cover a more significant surface area. A small Cape Cod, on the other hand, won’t usually be as large of a job.

Before the consultation, Weather Tight uses drone/satellite technology called RoofSnap to get the preliminary numbers and specs for the roof. Since most of us aren’t getting a bird’s eye view of our rooftop, this technology helps you, the homeowner, see the state of your roof. You may find out there’s damage you didn’t know about, like missing or badly worn shingles.

RoofSnap technology also helps Weather Tight representatives give you an accurate price quote. This quote is customized to your home’s roof and takes into consideration features beyond simple square footage, like turns, peaks, and valleys that affect the cost of roof replacement. During your in-home consultation, your Weather Tight representative will walk you through our findings and what it means for the cost of your roof replacement.

2. Replacement Roof Add-Ons

When you start to look closely at your roof, you may be surprised to discover the state of your home’s ventilation system. If you don’t have proper ventilation in your attic, you may see premature shingle and roof damage from the heat in the summer, as well as water and condensation damage in the winter. Replacing a roof without assessing ventilation isn’t a long-term solution. Improper ventilation may void your warranty on your roof replacement.

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To see the effects of improper roof ventilation, check out this Tod & Todd’s Home Improvement Tips video:

 

 

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Your Weather Tight representative will assess the state of your home’s ventilation. He or she will discuss soffit and fascia, which affect energy efficiency and long-term heating and cooling costs for your home. Weather Tight uses a scientific calculation to determine exactly how much soffit ventilation you need to balance your home’s ventilation with the size of the roof.

Your representative will also look at your gutters and the drainage for your roof.  Roofs protect our homes from leaks and moisture, so it’s critical they stand up to the weather. Gutters that don’t drain properly lead to water backup and roof damage. Fortunately, gutters are a simple add-on during roof replacement (and much cheaper while you’re replacing the roof).

3. Roofing Materials

Another significant factor in the cost of roof replacement is the materials you choose.

Asphalt shingles are a popular replacement roof choice due to the affordable price. There are many options available, enabling you to choose a replacement roof that compliments the color scheme of your house. With various finishes and looks, it’s easy to find a replacement roof with plenty of curb appeal.

A new product we’re excited about is the Owens Corning Duration FLEX. These shingles are stronger than traditional shingles, but they’re also flexible. When there is wind or frigid temperatures, they’re built to flex rather than tear off. These shingles are built to withstand storm conditions as well. We offer this upgrade option for replacement roofs. We’re a platinum preferred contractor, allowing us to provide additional warranties on Owens Corning roofing materials.

At Weather Tight, we always remove the existing shingles. We’ll never replace a roof over the top of other old materials. This type of “quick fix” replacement leads to more significant problems down the road, trapping moisture and affecting ventilation.

4. Timeframe

While the timeframe from the initial consultation to the installation of the roof may vary, Weather Tight completes roof replacement throughout the autumn and winter months (unless it’s very snowy, icy, or unsafe cold temperatures for our crews). Weather Tight is one of the few companies that will do a full roof replacement in the winter. We understand there are times when a roof replacement can’t wait.

Typical installations take 2-3 days, depending on the size of the roof, the complexity of the pitch of your home, and the full order. Larger installations can take up to 1-2 weeks, but on average, you can expect a 2-3 day installation. We always work with homeowners to ensure you’re happy with the installation process and timeframe. You’ll comfortably stay in your home during the roof replacement. Weather Tight also does what it can to clean up properly to prevent any debris, nails, or materials from getting in your lawn or flower beds.

Buying a Replacement Roof from Weather Tight: Peace of Mind

When you decide to invest in a replacement roof, the cost is a significant consideration. But it’s essential you also consider the value of your peace of mind. For a big job like roof replacement, work with an honest company you trust.

One factor that sets Weather Tight apart from the competition is our reputation. We’ve been in business for over 35 years. We hold an A rating with the BBB. We stand behind our work, and you can trust us to do the job right.

We clean up the job site thoroughly. We’re careful with your home. We won’t tear up the lawn or leave nails around the property. The average roof replacement has over 10,000 nails removed—it’s a messy process, but Weather Tight works hard to keep it clean.

Weather Tight contractors are bonded and insured. This means you’ll rest easy when contractors are doing a dangerous job on your property, like roofing. This protection comes at no extra cost to the customer but ensures you greater peace of mind.

Weather Tight also has warranties and in house service department available to assist if any challenges or concerns were to arise.

A roof replacement is an investment in the comfort and look of your home. When you decide to replace your roof, choose a trustworthy company that will be around in the future to stand behind our warranties—Trust Weather Tight for honesty, quality, and reliability.