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Originally Posted On: https://bestroofingestimates.com/9-factors-that-affect-your-roof-replacement-cost/
Shingle and fiber cement roofs last about 20 to 25 years before they’re due for replacement. Copper and slate roofs last longer, and if you’re lucky, you can get as much as 50 years out of these roofs.
When it’s time to replace your roof, it’s normal to wonder how much it will cost. Roofs are expensive, and a bit of financial organization is necessary before replacement time. However, many factors come into play to determine your roof replacement cost.
In today’s post, we’ll be discussing some of the most important factors that affect roof replacement costs. That way, you can get a better idea of what to expect to pay when replacing your roof.
1. The Type of Roofing Material
The type of roofing material is one of the most significant factors that affect roof replacement costs. Some materials are more expensive than others, and this will have a direct impact on the overall cost.
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in America, and they’re also some of the cheapest. Copper roofs are at the other end of the spectrum and are considerably more expensive.
The type of roofing material will also affect the price of installation. Some materials, like slate, require special equipment and training to install properly. This will add to the cost of the replacement.
Roofs made from recycled materials are also becoming more popular. These roofs are usually made from rubber or plastic, and they’re environmentally friendly. However, they can be more expensive than traditional roofing materials.
2. The Size of Your Roof
Obviously, a larger roof will cost more to replace than a smaller one. However, the actual square footage isn’t the only thing you need to consider. The pitch or slope of your roof will also affect the cost.
A steeper pitched roof is more difficult to work on and will, therefore, be more expensive. A roof with a low pitch is easier to work on and, hence, will be less expensive.
3. The Style of Your Roof
Roofs come in different styles, with some styles being more expensive than others. A gabled roof, for instance, will be more expensive to replace than a flat roof.
Gabled roofs are more complex, with complicated architecture, and require more materials. They’re also more difficult to work on, which will add to the cost of labor.
On the other hand, flat roofs are much simpler and require fewer materials. They’re also easier to work on, which will offset some of the labor cost.
It’s important to note that the style of your roof may be dictated by the climate you live in. For instance, homes in hurricane-prone areas often have hip roofs because they’re more resistant to high winds.
If you live in an area with severe weather conditions, you may be required to have a certain type of roof. This will affect the cost of replacement, but you have no option.
4. The Roof’s Framing
The framing of your roof is the skeleton that supports the entire structure. It’s usually made from wood, but some roofs have steel and concrete frames.
The type of framing you have will affect the cost of replacement because different materials require different levels of work to install. Wooden frames are the most common, and they’re relatively easy to work with.
Concrete and steel frames are much more difficult to work with and require special training and equipment. This will add to the cost of installation.
Like the style, the framing of your roof may also be dictated by the climate of the region you live in. For instance, homes in hurricane-prone areas often have steel or concrete frames because they’re more resistant to high winds.
5. How Many Penetrations Your Roof Has
The number of penetrations, or openings, in your roof will also affect the cost of replacement. Things like skylights, chimneys, and vents need to be properly sealed to prevent leaks.
The more penetrations your roof has, the more expensive it will be to replace. That’s because it will require more work to seal everything up.
It’s important to note that not all penetrations are created equal. Some, like skylights, are more difficult to work with than others and will require more time and effort to seal. This will obviously add to the cost.
6. How Accessible Your Roof Is
Easy-to-access roofs are less expensive to replace than difficult ones. That’s because the workers won’t have to spend as much time getting to the worksite.
It’s important to note that even if your roof is easy to access, there may still be some factors that make it more difficult to work on. For instance, if your roof is surrounded by trees, the workers will have to take extra precautions to avoid damaging the property.
7. How Much Decking You Need to Replace
The decking is the plywood that the roofing material attaches to. In most cases, you’ll need to replace the entire deck when you replace the roof.
However, if your deck is in good condition, you may be able to get away with just replacing the top layer. This will obviously save you money.
It’s worth noting that the amount of decking you need to replace will also be affected by the style of your roof. For instance, a flat roof will require less decking than a gabled roof.
This is because flat roofs have less surface area than gabled roofs, so there’s less work involved in replacing them.
8. The Dumpsite Fees
Dumpsite fees are the charges you’ll have to pay to dispose of the old roofing materials. These fees vary depending on your location, but they can add up quickly.
In some cases, you may be able to avoid paying dumpsite fees by recycling the old materials. However, this isn’t always an option.
If you have to pay dumpsite fees, it’s important to factor them into the cost of replacement. Otherwise, you could be in for a nasty surprise when it’s time to pay the bill.
9. The Roofing Contractor’s Overhead Costs
The overhead is the cost of running the roofing contractor’s business. This includes things like insurance, rent, employee salaries, and marketing.
This may seem like a lot to pay for something as simple as replacing a roof, but it’s important to remember that the contractor has a business to run. They can’t just work for free.
The overhead costs will be different for every contractor, so it’s important to get a few quotes before you decide on one. This will help you ensure that you’re getting the best possible price.
How to Save Money on Your Roof Replacement
A simple roof replacement can cost you a pretty penny. Luckily, there are a few ways you can save money when replacing your roof. Here’s how you do just that.
Explore Your Roofing Contractor Options
Not all roofing contractors are created equal. Some will charge more for their services than others. It’s important to explore your options before you decide on a contractor.
Get quotes from a few different contractors and compare their roof costs. Be sure to ask about any discounts or promotions that they may be offering.
You should also ask for referrals from people you know and trust. This will help you find a reputable contractor who will do a good job at a fair price.
Use Homeowner’s Insurance
Some homeowner’s insurance policies cover roof repairs and replacement. This means that you may be able to get your roof replaced at no cost to you.
Of course, you’ll need to check with your insurance company first. Find out if they cover roofing repairs and replacement and what their requirements are. You may also get a discount on your premium if you have a new roof installed.
Get Your Timing Right
The cost of roof replacement can vary depending on the time of year. Replacing your roof in the winter will generally be more expensive than replacing it in the summer.
This is because roofing contractors are usually busier in the summer months. As such, they’ll charge more for their services.
Roof Replacement Cost Simplified
Replacing your roof is a big decision. You want to make sure that you’re getting the best possible value for your money by taking the time to understand the cost factor.
Clearly, there are tons of factors that affect roof replacement costs. Some of these factors are out of your control, but others you`ll be able to manage.
If you’re ready to get started on your roof replacement project, the first step is to get quotes from different contractors. At Best Roofing Estimates, we can help you compare quotes and find the best value for your money.
Click the button below to get started.
