Homeowners considering a roof replacement or installation can feel overwhelmed, especially when faced with the varying materials and labor costs. Numerous factors influence roofing prices, including market conditions, material types, installation costs, and even local regulations. This blog will break down the key factors that affect roofing prices, helping you make informed decisions when investing in a new roof.
Main Factors That Affect New Roof Costs
When budgeting for a new roof, there are five main factors to consider:
Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors and how they impact your overall roofing cost.
1. Market Conditions
The roofing market fluctuates based on economic factors such as supply and demand, the cost of raw materials, and seasonal trends. In recent years, significant variability in material prices has been observed due to factors like post-pandemic supply chain disruptions and severe weather events. Prices for materials like asphalt shingles, metal, and wood can rise or fall depending on these conditions.
What’s the Average Cost of a Roof in New Hampshire and Massachusetts?
The average cost for a new roof in New Hampshire and Massachusetts ranges from $8,000 to $15,000. This wide range depends on several variables, including the materials you choose, the size of your roof, labor costs and the complexity of the roof.
Consult with a local contractor for a more accurate estimate. Market conditions can affect the final cost.
2. Roof Size
Measuring your roof accurately is essential for getting a precise estimate, and modern technology makes it easier than ever. Tools like EagleView, Roofr, and Hover use advanced 3D imagery and aerial measurements to provide exact dimensions of your roof without the need for manual calculations. These tools generate reports showing roof pitch, square footage, and other critical factors affecting cost and installation. Using such technology allows homeowners and contractors to save time, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure accurate pricing, making the entire roofing process more efficient and reliable.
The size of your roof is a primary factor in determining overall cost. Roofing is typically measured in "squares," where one square equals 100 square feet.
For example, if your home is 2,400 square feet, your roof would be approximately 24 squares (2,400 ÷ 100 = 24). The cost per square for a shingle roof can range from $550 to $750, meaning a new roof could cost anywhere from $13,200 to $18,000 for a 24-square roof.
Refined Home Services offers homeowners an easy-to-use online roof estimator through Roofr. Simply enter your address and you'll get an instant roof quote based on your chosen materials, colors, and other product details.
3. Material Types and Costs
The type of roofing material you choose plays a major role in determining the overall cost. Each material has its own advantages and trade-offs in terms of price, durability, and maintenance. Material costs vary widely, ranging from architectural and designer shingles to premium options like Grand Manor shingles or metals such as copper and aluminum. This range is specifically for materials and does not include installation or other associated costs.
Asphalt Shingles
Cost: $100 to $300 per square
Lifespan: 20-30 years
Considerations: Asphalt shingles are affordable and widely used but may require more maintenance over time compared to other materials.
Metal Roofing
Cost: $120 to $900 per square, depending on the metal type (aluminum, steel, copper)
Lifespan: 40-70 years
Considerations: Metal roofs are long-lasting and energy-efficient, but they come with higher upfront costs.
Slate Roofing
Cost: $600 to $1,500 per square
Lifespan: 75-100+ years
Considerations: Slate is highly durable and elegant but requires specialized installation, which can drive up labor costs.
Composite Roofing
Cost: $300 to $500 per square
Lifespan: 30-50 years
Considerations: Composite materials offer the look of natural materials (like slate or wood) without the high price tag, making them a popular alternative.
Tesla Solar Roofs
Cost: Estimates for Tesla Solar Roof installations are not readily available due to the customized nature of each project. Contact a local dealer for a consultation.
Lifespan: 25 years (with energy savings)
Considerations: While more expensive upfront, Tesla Solar Roofs allow homeowners to generate energy and potentially reduce electricity costs over time. Incentives and tax credits may help offset initial expenses.
4. Labor Costs
Labor costs vary depending on the complexity of the roof, local labor rates, and the reputation of the contractor. The total number of hours required to install a roof will depend on your roof's size and complexity.
Factors Affecting Labor Costs:
Local Labor Rates: Prices for skilled labor can differ between New Hampshire and Massachusetts, influenced by demand and the cost of living.
Contractor Reputation: More experienced contractors may charge higher rates, but they often deliver higher quality workmanship.
Installation Complexity: Steeper roofs, multiple levels, skylights, or chimneys can add to labor costs due to the increased difficulty and time required for installation.
5. Roof Complexity
The complexity of your roof plays a significant role in cost. Roofs with steeper pitches or those with features like skylights, chimneys, or valleys require more labor, materials, and time to install. Our roofing glossary provides clear definitions to help you understand all roofing terminology. These added complexities can increase the overall cost of the project.
Key Complexity Factors:
Roof Pitch: Steeper roofs are harder to work on, increasing labor time and costs.
Skylights & Chimneys: These require additional waterproofing and can drive up both material and labor costs.
Valleys: Each valley in a roof requires extra waterproofing, which can add to the complexity and cost of the installation.
Roof Type: Certain roofing materials, like slate or tile, may require specialized installation techniques, which impact labor and material costs.
Accessibility: Difficult access to the roof can increase labor time and require special equipment, leading to higher overall costs—for example, homes in densely populated cities or neighborhoods.
This Roofing Glossary will help you define the different parts of your roof.
Additional Factors Affecting Costs
Several other elements may impact roofing costs, including:
Underlayment Decking: If your roof's underlying structure requires new plywood decking due to rot or damage, this can add significant costs to the project, typically ranging from $50 to $70 per sheet, depending on material quality, size, thickness and local pricing.
Permits and Regulations: In New Hampshire and Massachusetts, the cost of a building permit can vary widely depending on the municipality, the scope of the project, and the type of construction involved. Here's a general breakdown:
Small Projects (e.g., minor repairs, decks): $25–$150
Medium Projects (e.g., room additions, larger renovations): $150–$1,000
Major Projects (e.g., new construction or significant structural work): $500–$2,500+
Some towns or cities may charge based on the estimated cost of construction, such as $10–$20 per $1,000 of project value. Additional fees may apply for specific inspections (plumbing, electrical, etc.). It's always best to check with the local building department for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing.
Old Roof Removal: If your current roof needs to be removed, you’ll likely face additional disposal fees. The cost will rise if there are multiple layers, as more material will incur additional disposal fees.
Roof Inspections and Repairs: Before starting a roofing project, it’s wise to have a roof inspection to check for any issues that could increase repair costs.
Conclusion
Understanding the factors affecting roofing costs can help homeowners in New Hampshire and Massachusetts plan their projects more effectively. Whether you're choosing traditional asphalt shingles or exploring innovative options like Tesla Solar Roofs, knowing what to expect will help you make a more informed decision.
Need a Roofing Estimate? If you’re ready to replace or install a new roof, contact us for a free estimate or to schedule an appointment. We’ll work with you to find the best solution for your home and budget, ensuring that your investment enhances your property's beauty, functionality, and value.