This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

How Much Does A New Roof Cost?

When purchasing a new roof, what decisions do you have to make?

If you know you'll be needing a new roof in foreseeable future, you've probably been asking friends, families, and co-workers what they paid for their new roof.  However, the wide range of price from person to person might leave you even more confused than when you started.  That's because there are many different variables that go into the cost of a roof.

 

The first group of variables are the "givens" that are out of your current control.  These variables consist of:

Find out what's happening in Wheatonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

1. Roof size- the actual square footage of your roof will determine the amount of labor and material needed to install a new roof.

2. Roof pitch- a steeper pitched roof is more difficult and thus more expensive to install.

Find out what's happening in Wheatonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

3. Roof design- the overall complexity of your roof plays a big role in your cost.  Many complex roofshave additional flashing points and require more accessories than a straight-forward roof.  Be very leery of low-bids on a complicated roof; they are probably leaving certain aspects out of their specification.

 

The second set of variables are the ones that you can (and should) control.  A reputable contractor will take the time to walk you through different plans to find a new roof that not only meets your budget, but ensures longevity while easily surpassing all minimal codes.  Here are some basic options you will have to choose from:

1. Shingles - Not only will price vary from brand to brand, but each brand of shingles will have different designs and options to increase your curb appeal.

2.  Other materials/accessories - This is the aspect of the roof that most people don't think about.  However, it doesn't make any sense to invest in nice shingles, and then put the cheapest underlayment under them.  Your roofing system is only as good as it's weakest link.  Therefore, the underlayments should at least be on the same level as your shingle quality.

3. Ventilation corrections- Adding additional vents or completely changing the ventilation system will be a slightly higher investment.  However, proper ventilation is now code and also needed to ensure your shingle warranty.  Additionally, proper ventilation can help with utility bills and increase the longevity of your shingles.

4. Labor cost- Roofing contractors range from highly certified craftsman to inexperienced labors who know how to use a nailing gun and nothing more.  Because over 78% of roofing problems are a direct result of improper installation, make sure to be very particular in picking a roofing contractor. 

 

Making the right choice on the front end is the easiest way to save yourself from additional money and headaches on the back end.   Here is a link straight from the NRCA that dives into more detail about different roofing components and steps towards hiring the right contractor:http://www.nrca.net/consumer/fyi.aspx.  Also feel free to reach out to me for any additional information and/or questions.

 

Tom Shallcross

Opal Enterprises

630.355.6557

http://www.opalenterprises.net

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?