Understanding Your Roof Quote
Roofing estimates can be confusing. Here is a breakdown of the key factors that drive the total cost of your project.
Calculating Squares
Contractors don't quote by the square foot; they quote by the "square". 1 Square = 100 Sq. Ft.
If your roof is 2,000 sq ft, you need 20 squares of material. Our calculator automatically handles this conversion for you.
Waste Factor
You can't use 100% of the shingles you buy. You need extra material for cutting around valleys, chimneys, and edges.
Standard Waste: 10%
Complex Roofs: 15-20%
Material Cost Comparison
The biggest variable in your roofing quote is the material you choose. While asphalt is the most common, premium materials offer longer lifespans.
| Material | Cost / Sq. Ft. | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingle | $3.50 - $5.50 | 15-30 Years |
| Metal (Standing Seam) | $9.00 - $14.00 | 40-70 Years |
| Clay / Concrete Tile | $12.00 - $22.00 | 50+ Years |
| Natural Slate | $18.00 - $30.00 | 100+ Years |
Does Pitch Affect Price?
Yes, significantly. The "pitch" is the steepness of your roof. Contractors define it as the number of inches the roof rises for every 12 inches it runs horizontally (e.g., a "4/12 pitch" rises 4 inches for every foot).
- Walkable (Up to 6/12): Standard pricing. Safe to walk on without harness.
- Non-Walkable (7/12 to 9/12): Requires toe-boards and safety gear. Costs increase by ~15%.
- Steep (10/12+): Requires full harnessing and slower work. Costs increase by ~30-35%.
Hidden Cost: Tear-Off
Don't forget the cost of removing the old roof! "Tear-off" typically costs $1.00 - $2.00 per sq. ft.This includes the labor to scrape off old shingles and the dumpster fees to haul them away.