A new roof generally isn’t going to be a minor investment. But, there are few other components of your home that are more important. If you decide to do it yourself or cut corners in other ways, you could wind up spending more on repairs that you would have if you’d hired an experienced contractor to do the job right the first time.
There will be several factors that influence the final cost of a full roof replacement, and these factors vary by location and circumstance. Knowing exactly what influences this price can help you avoid spending too much.
MATERIAL COSTS
There isn’t much room for negotiation when it comes to the price of materials. Each type of roofing material has its own standard cost per unit, and the pitch of your roof may dictate your material options.
For example, asphalt shingles are ideally suited for medium-pitched roofs, which most homes have. Asphalt is also the most cost-effective and widely available roofing material, so there’s no surprise why it’s the most popular composition going.
On the other hand, cedar shakes and shingles are designed for a steeper pitch and can cost two or three times as much. Higher end materials like metal are generally more expensive than composition and may even call for additional accessories. Also, many materials are available in special colors, textures, and quality levels, which can increase prices as well.
OTHER IMPORTANT FACTORS
One of the biggest questions to answer is whether you’ll need to have your existing roof torn off before installing the new one. In some circumstances, and with the right combination of materials, it may be ok to install your new roof right on top of your old one. However, this can reduce the service life of your new roof by as much as 20 to 40 percent.
Another significant factor is the size of the building to be roofed– the bigger the building, the more expensive the roof installation. A particularly steep roof will also yield higher costs because there is more surface to cover and the labor slows down due to mobility.
Complex cut up roofs with special features like skylights, bays, or cones generally require a bigger budget, and don’t forget to factor in gutters and downspouts, flashing, zinc treatments, and vents for mitigating algae, mold, leaks, and extreme attic temperatures.
When it comes to the installer you choose, it may seem like a splurge to pay extra for the labor of an experienced, reputable contractor. But, choosing the right roofer can mean a difference of decades in the life of your roof.
Whatever your circumstances are, remember that you get what you pay for. Don’t make the mistake of choosing bargain materials or going with the lowest bidder to cut costs, or you may wind up paying more in the end. The quality of your roofing system is key to your home’s value, so you won’t regret making this investment.
Call Pacific West Roofing about your new roof today at 503-635-8706, or fill out our contact form.