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There are some things in life that you spend a long time budgeting for. Your dream home, a car, that family trip to Disney World, a roof replacement—
Wait. Did we say roof replacement? Unfortunately, the answer is yes.
The truth is that, as homeowners, there are some expenses that are simply unavoidable. A roof replacement is one of those things. And while it may not be quite as memorable as spinning around in a giant teacup with a Mickey Mouse-shaped pretzel clutched in your fist, it is undoubtedly a more important use of your finances! After all, your roof:
- Protects you from severe weather ⛈️
- Insulates your home 🧣
- Keeps your home free of water damage ☔️
That being said, we understand that a new asphalt shingle roof is a significant investment. Which is why you’re probably frantically Googling “what is the average cost of a shingle roof” right about now.
Don’t worry! You’ve come to the right place. We’re breaking down everything you need to know about how much asphalt shingles cost and how to extend the longevity of your roof.
When Is It Time to Replace Your Roof?
The average homeowner isn’t a roofing expert. And with qualified roofers around, you don’t need to be! However, your home is ultimately your responsibility. This means that knowing the signs of an old, failing roof can help you to get the help that you need before it is too late! Here are some key signs that your roof is in need of replacement:
- Leaks – Roofing expert or not, most people can agree that when a roof leak appears, it is never a good sign. Roof leaks are typically the most obvious sign of severe roof damage, particularly if they occur frequently or in the same spots.
- Blown-Off Shingles – As your roof ages, it is more likely to be affected by severe weather conditions. This means that after a large storm, you may find that some shingles have blown off of your roof and into your yard. Even a few missing shingles can create large amounts of water damage in your home.
- Age – The clearest indicator of a roof that is on its way out is its age! Most asphalt shingle roofs only last for 15-20 years. If your roof falls within that age range – or is older – you’ll want to have it inspected by a roofing professional.
- Granule Loss – All asphalt shingles will lose some granules over time. However, as they approach the end of their life cycle, you might notice an increase in the amount of black, gritty substances that you find in your gutters and in your yard. Too much granule loss can lead to your shingles performing ineffectively and becoming more susceptible to damage.
Different Asphalt Shingle Types
When it comes to selecting your roofing materials, it is important to consider all of your options. Not all asphalt shingles are created equal, and what works for one person might not be right for another. Here are some of the shingle material options available to you:
3 Tab Shingles
Sometimes, you can’t mess with a classic! And when it comes to your roof, it doesn’t get more classic than a 3-tab shingle roof.
3-tab shingles lay flat against your roof and come in a uniform style and shape. This will give you a clean, unfussy look for your roof. However, it is worth noting that 3-tab shingles are often less durable than other options, as they are thinner with a weaker adhesive.
Architectural Shingles
Architectural asphalt shingles are a great option for those who are looking to add dimension to their roofs. These shingles help to add interest and depth to the look of your roof in a way that is not dissimilar to wood shingles. They also tend to be sturdier than their 3-tab counterparts.
Impact Resistant Shingles
Tired of dealing hail damage to your roof? Impact resistant shingles may be right for you! These specially reinforced shingles are designed to be able to resist cracking or denting that is caused by high impact from hail or debris hitting your roof.
5 Asphalt Shingle Roof Replacement Cost Factors
1) Shingle Type
The type of shingles that you choose can have a huge effect on your overall costs. 3-tab shingles will typically be cheaper than architectural shingles or impact-resistant shingles. However, keep in mind that they also are more prone to breakage, meaning that you may spend more on repairs in the long run.
2) Size of Your Roof
Arguably the most significant determining factor in your final roof price is the size of your roof. Not sure how big your roof is? The average roof in the U.S. is 1700 square feet. You can use that number to approximate the cost of your project!
3) Location
It may not seem fair, but the area that you live in can affect costs as well. If you live in a city where the cost of living is higher, you can bet that your roof replacement will be pricier as well. Likewise, if you live in a rural area, you may find that you can get your entire roof replaced for a much cheaper cost.
4) Time of Year
Roofing is definitely a seasonal business. This means that trying to get your roof replaced in the spring or summer can drive the cost of your project up significantly, as roofers are very busy. If you hire them in the winter – weather permitting – you may be able to reduce your overall costs.
5) Labor Costs
As you research shingle prices and calculate the size of your roof, it can be easy to forget to factor in labor costs. Most qualified roofers will charge $75-$200 per hour in labor costs alone. Be sure to leave some wiggle room in your budget to account for this.
What Is the Average Cost of a Roof Replacement?
So, with all of that information, how much can you actually expect to pay for an asphalt shingle roof replacement?
In the U.S., the national average for a full roof replacement tends to land somewhere between $7000-$15,000. However, if you have a larger home and choose architectural shingles, you could be looking at a price that is closer to $25,000.
Roof Maintenance Tips
- Keep it Clear 🧹 – Roof structures are carefully planned out in order to allow water to flow off it and prevent water damage. However, if debris from leaves, twigs, and other natural detritus is allowed to accumulate on your roof, water can pool and cause severe damage. Regularly cleaning your roof will help prevent this.
- Clean Your Gutters 🍂 – Similarly, clogged gutters can create serious drainage issues. Make sure to clean out your gutters at least twice a year.
- Trim Trees 🌳 – One of the biggest culprits of impact damage on your roof is falling tree branches. To avoid this, be sure to regularly trim any trees that are near your home’s roof.
- Schedule a Roof Inspection 🗓️ – Professional roofing contractors have been trained to spot roofing issues before they start! By having an annual roof inspection, you can make sure that your roof is in good shape all year long.
Talk With a Pro
The best way to understand what to expect out of your roofing project is to talk with a professional contractor! At Northface Construction, our knowledgeable team is here to guide you through every step of the roof replacement process. We use the reliable Roof Quote Pro software to provide each of our customers with an accurate and comprehensive quote. Contact us today to receive yours!