Why choose asphalt shingles for your roof?
Asphalt roofs are a top choice among many homeowners, according to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA). This is primarily because these shingles are one of the most affordable options on the market. Here’s a look at how asphalt shingles compare to other roofing materials for 2,500-square-foot roofs:
| Roofing type | Average total cost |
|---|
| Asphalt shingles | $12,129-$14,313 |
| Cedar shake | $43,526-$51,552 |
| Copper | $58,132-$101,631 |
| Metal | $19,570-$22,068 |
| Rubber (EPDM) | $2,833-$3,765 |
| Slate | $52,286-$79,148 |
| Tile | $21,914-$31,277 |
*All figures above reflect pricing for 2,500-square-foot roofs. Figures include labor, material and cost increases due to market conditions. Source: Xactware
Asphalt shingle roof labor cost
| National average cost | $7,108-$7,500 |
|---|
| Average low-end cost range | $6,184-$6,525 |
| Average high-end cost range | $7,606-$8,025 |
*All figures above reflect pricing for 2,500-square-foot roofs. Source: Xactware.
Material cost for shingle roof
| National average cost | $5,019-$6,809 |
|---|
| Average low-end cost range | $4,367-$5,923 |
| Average high-end cost range | $5,371-$7,285 |
*All figures above reflect pricing for 2,500-square-foot roofs. Source: Xactware
How much is a square of shingles?
On average, a square of shingles costs $200-$275 per square or $2-$2.75 per square foot in the U.S.. When estimating how much roofing materials you need (and how much it will cost), contractors use roofing squares as a measurement. 1 roofing square is equal to 100 feet.
| Labor costs | $2.84-$3.00 |
| Material costs | $2-$2.75 |
Asphalt shingle roof cost by size.
Average material costs start at $2 per square foot, and average labor costs start at $2.84 per square foot for shingle roofs. Based on these cost-per-foot estimates, here’s a look at the starting average costs for different roof sizes:
| Square feet | Starting average cost for materials | Starting average cost for labor |
| 750 | $1,500 | $2,130 |
| 1,000 | $2,000 | $2,840 |
| 1,250 | $2,500 | $3,550 |
| 1,500 | $2,300 | $4,260 |
| 1,750 | $3,500 | $4,970 |
| 2,000 | $4,000 | $5,580 |
| 2,250 | $4,500 | $6,390 |
| 2,500 | $5,000 | $7,100 |
*All figures above are estimates and represent starting costs of $2/sq. ft. for materials and $2.84/sq. ft. for labor. Source: Xactware
Factors that affect shingle roof costs
There are numerous factors to consider when trying to price out the cost of a new roof. Take the following into consideration.
Roof size. The size of your roof will play a large role in the cost of your project. The size will impact the cost of the shingles, plywood and underlayment.
Material. Asphalt isn’t the only material you can use for roofing shingles. Metal, tile, slate and cedar shingles are also available at different price points — and often cost more than asphalt shingles.
Scope of installation. Different roofing materials will require other installation techniques. The wrong installation techniques can compromise the entire system. For this reason, it’s critical to consider what your installation costs will be.
Cost of specific brands. Finally, as is true with any product you purchase, your total roof replacement costs will be impacted by the brand you choose for materials. Always ask your roofing contractor what brands they offer and recommend based on price and quality.
Additional work needed. If you’re repairing a shingle roof, your costs will be lower. But if you’re replacing your old roof with a new asphalt or metal roof, expect to pay more.
How to estimate your costs
If you are looking to install a new roof, you will likely want to enter the project with at least an estimate of roof costs. Determining the average price for a new roof can help you make the right financial decisions before choosing materials and hiring roofing contractors for the work. The following steps will help you estimate your roof installation costs:
Know the size of your roof. The total roof cost will be dependent on the size of your home.
Use the total square footage of your roof multiplied by the average material cost to estimate material expenses. For example, if you decide to use asphalt shingles, multiply your roof’s square footage against the average material cost.
Ask for cost estimates from local roofing companies. Pull at least three to four estimates and add these labor costs to your material estimates.
Benefits of shingle roofs
Whether your existing roof is leaking or the last storm to pass through the area caused severe hail damage to your roof’s shingles, installing a new shingle roof may be worth the cost. Here are some reasons why these roofs are beneficial:
Aesthetic. You can purchase asphalt shingles in a variety of styles, colors, materials and designs to create a beautiful roof that increases your home’s curb appeal.
Affordability. Compared to most roofing materials, asphalt shingles are an economical choice. For the homeowner on a budget, these shingles are an ideal fit.
Reliability. Shingles have been around for decades, and they’ve proven to be durable.