Tips On How To Estimate The Materials Needed For A Roof

Admin June 23, 2022

To know how to estimate roofing materials, you must be well-versed in the roof estimate methods and considerations that go into this process.

Replacing a roof is a huge financial expenditure — one you'll have to ultimately confront if your roof has already lived its prime or you have a damaged roof.

The typical cost of a new roof in the United States ranges from $5,200 to $10,190. This number might be scary, mainly if your roof replacement is unplanned or unexpected.

In this article, you'll learn how to estimate roofing materials and some of their considerations.

How much does it cost to roof a house?

Replacement of a home's roof may cost anywhere from $5,100 to $28,000 in the US. It depends on the square footage, roofing material, and local labor costs. When you view it in terms of square feet, the price goes from roughly $260 to $700 per roofing square. For instance, it will cost you between $1,800 to $6,000 for a 1500 square feet home. Two to three days is the usual time it takes to re-shingle an average-sized roof. A roof with twice the area will typically need more than a week.

What aspects go into how to estimate roofing materials?

Your new roof will cost more or less depending on what factors are considered. Consider the following when getting an estimate for your roof:

Dimensions of the roof

Roofing contractors typically multiply the square footage-based roof measurement by 100. Using this method, they are given a square of roofing material. Generally, one square foot of roofing equals 100 square feet of space. Rather than by the square foot, most roofing materials are sold by the roofing square.

Roof pitch or slope

Your roof's intricacy may need more materials and roofing work. When it comes to complex roof designs, roofing contractors often charge extra for the installation of shingles.

The pitch of your roof may have a significant impact on the cost of your roof. More staging, safety measures, and manpower are needed to accomplish a high pitch (greater than 6:12) roof job.

A roof's pitch also dictates the underlayment system used. A 2:12 to 4:12 pitch shingle roof, for example, will need two layers of underlayment. On the other hand, a Class A fire rating may be required for a flat roof with a 1/2:12 to 2:12 pitch.

Getting rid of the existing roof

To remove a roof, you'll need to put in some time and effort. You should also consider the weight of the roofing material when calculating disposal fees. Removing the old roof and properly disposing of it can take longer if the roofing material is more bulky and heavy.

Type of new roofing material

The price of various types of roofing materials varies widely. In addition, they directly affect the aesthetics, weight, toughness, and lifetime of your new roofing system.

Asphalt composition shingles are the most affordable option for a roof at this price point. A concrete or clay tile roof is a more mid-range alternative; synthetic, wood shake, metal roofing, slate, and architectural shingles, on the other hand, are more expensive.