Roof shingle replacement costs between $300 and $1,200 per square (100 square feet), depending on shingle type, your location, and labor rates in your area

A typical residential roof is 20 to 30 squares. That means a full roof replacement runs $6,000 to $36,000 before permits and disposal fees. If you need only a section patched — storm damage, a few missing shingles, or a leak in one area — expect $200 to $500 for the repair itself, plus a service call fee of $75 to $150.

The price you see quoted depends on what you're replacing. Standard asphalt shingles cost the least. Architectural shingles (thicker, textured) cost more. Metal, slate, or composite shingles cost significantly more. Labor is usually 40 to 60 percent of the total bill, so a roofer's hourly rate and how long the job takes matter as much as materials.

Get three written estimates before you commit. Roofers should walk your roof, measure it, and account for pitch (steepness), complexity, and what's underneath the old shingles. A quote over the phone is not reliable.

Key Takeaways

  • Asphalt shingle replacement costs $300 to $1,200 per square; a full roof on a typical house runs $6,000 to $36,000 depending on shingle type and labor rates.
  • Partial repairs for a few missing or damaged shingles cost $200 to $500 plus a service call fee, and are worth doing before damage spreads.
  • Labor makes up 40 to 60 percent of the bill, so local roofer rates and roof complexity (pitch, valleys, skylights) affect your final cost as much as materials do.
  • Get written estimates from at least three roofers who physically inspect your roof; phone quotes and online calculators do not account for your roof's actual condition.

What shingle type costs and why it matters

Asphalt shingles are the cheapest option and the most common. They last 15 to 20 years and cost $300 to $600 per square installed. Three-tab shingles (flat, uniform) are the low end; architectural shingles (layered, dimensional) are the high end of asphalt pricing.

Architectural shingles cost $600 to $900 per square. They look more like wood or slate, last 20 to 30 years, and hold up better in wind. If your roof is visible from the street or you plan to stay in the house 20+ years, the extra cost often makes sense.

Metal roofing costs $800 to $1,500 per square and lasts 40 to 70 years. It reflects heat, which can lower cooling costs in hot climates. It is noisier in rain unless insulated, and some homeowners' insurance companies charge more for it. Metal is a long-term investment, not a quick fix.

Slate, tile, and composite shingles cost $1,200 to $2,500+ per square and last 50+ years. They are heavy and require structural reinforcement. Most homeowners do not choose these unless they want a specific look or live in an area where they are standard.

How location and roof complexity change the price

Labor rates vary widely by region. A roofer in a rural area might charge $50 to $75 per hour; in a major city, $100 to $150 per hour is common. A two-day job in an expensive market costs more than the same job in a less expensive one, even with identical materials.

Roof pitch (steepness) affects labor time. A steep roof takes longer to work on safely and requires more equipment. A flat or low-pitch roof is faster. Roofers typically charge more for steep roofs — sometimes 10 to 20 percent more.

Complexity adds cost. A roof with many valleys, skylights, chimneys, or dormers takes longer to remove old shingles and install new ones. A straightforward rectangular roof is cheaper per square than a complex one. Ask the roofer to break down the estimate by labor and materials so you can see where the cost comes from.

Removal and disposal of old shingles usually costs $1 to $2 per square. Some roofers include this; others charge it separately. Permits vary by municipality but typically run $50 to $300. Ask whether the estimate includes these or if they are added later.

When to repair instead of replace

If only a few shingles are damaged — curled, cracked, or missing — repair is the right choice. A roofer can patch the damaged area for $200 to $500. This buys you time and prevents water from getting into the structure.

Repair makes sense if your roof is less than 15 years old and the damage is localized to one area. If your roof is 20+ years old, has multiple leaks, or shows widespread damage, replacement is usually cheaper in the long run because repairs on an old roof often fail within a few years.

After a storm, photograph the damage and contact your homeowners' insurance company before calling a roofer. Many policies cover storm damage with a deductible. The insurance adjuster will inspect the roof and determine what they will pay for. Get the roofer's estimate in writing and submit it with the claim.

How to get an accurate estimate

Call three to five local roofers and ask for a free in-person estimate. A roofer should climb onto your roof (or use a drone in some cases), measure it, note the pitch and complexity, and look at the condition of the decking underneath. They should also ask about your roof's age, whether there are multiple layers of shingles, and whether there is any visible rot or water damage.

The estimate should list the shingle type and brand, the square footage or number of squares, labor cost, removal and disposal, permits, and any other charges. It should also state how long the work will take and when the roofer can start. Compare the three estimates side by side. If one is much lower than the others, ask why — it might mean lower-quality materials or incomplete work scope.

Ask whether the roofer offers a warranty on materials and workmanship. Most shingle manufacturers offer 20 to 30-year warranties on the shingles themselves. Roofers typically warranty their labor for one to five years. A longer labor warranty is a sign of confidence in their work.

What affects how long a roof lasts

Asphalt shingles last 15 to 20 years in most climates. In hot, sunny climates, they may last only 12 to 15 years because UV exposure breaks down the asphalt. In cold climates with heavy snow, ice dams can shorten the life by forcing water under the shingles.

Ventilation matters. A roof that is too hot in summer or too cold in winter (because of poor attic ventilation) fails faster. A roofer should check your attic vents and soffit vents during the estimate. If ventilation is poor, fixing it at the same time as the roof replacement can extend the new roof's life.

Maintenance extends the life of any roof. After a storm, have a roofer inspect for damage. Keep gutters clean so water does not back up under the shingles. Trim tree branches that hang over the roof so leaves do not collect and trap moisture. These steps cost little and can add years to your roof.

Financing options for roof replacement

Many homeowners pay for roof replacement out of pocket or use a home equity line of credit (HELOC). Some roofers offer financing through third-party lenders, usually with interest rates between 6 and 12 percent. Read the terms carefully — some promotional rates expire after a year.

If your roof was damaged by a storm, your homeowners' insurance may pay for part or all of the replacement, minus your deductible. File a claim as soon as possible. The insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage. If the adjuster approves the claim, they will pay the roofer directly or reimburse you after the work is done.

Some states and municipalities offer tax credits or rebates for energy-efficient roofing materials like metal or cool-colored asphalt shingles. Check with your local government or utility company to see whether you may have access to. The credit or rebate can offset part of the cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put new shingles over old ones?

Most building codes allow one layer of shingles over another, but roofers usually recommend removing the old layer first. Layering traps heat, shortens the life of the new shingles, and makes it harder to spot damage. Removal costs more upfront but saves money over time. Check your local building code — some areas limit how many layers are allowed.

How long does a roof replacement take?

A typical residential roof takes two to five days, depending on size, pitch, and weather. A small, straightforward roof might be done in one day. A large, complex roof with multiple layers to remove can take a week. The roofer should give you a timeline in the estimate and let you know if weather delays are likely.

What if I find rot or damage under the old shingles?

Rot in the decking (the wood under the shingles) must be repaired before new shingles go on. The roofer will remove the damaged section and replace it with new plywood. This adds cost and time. Ask the roofer to photograph any damage they find and give you a separate estimate for repairs before they start the full replacement.

Do I need a permit for roof replacement?

Most municipalities require a permit for roof replacement. The permit ensures the work meets building code and that the roofer is licensed. Permit cost varies but is usually $50 to $300. Most roofers handle the permit process as part of their service, though some charge a separate fee. Ask whether the estimate includes the permit.

Should I replace my roof before selling my house?

If your roof is near the end of its life, a home inspector will flag it during a sale, and buyers may ask for a credit or replacement. If your roof is in good condition, replacement is not necessary. If it is failing, replacing it before listing can make the house more attractive and may justify a higher asking price. Discuss this with your real estate agent.