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Roofing Cost Calculator 2026

Estimate new roof or replacement cost by material, size, pitch, and region. Covers asphalt, metal, tile, and slate with tear-off and permit pricing for 2026.

🟢 Updated April 2026👤 Reviewed by MoneyMath Editorial⚡ Runs in your browser · inputs never leave your device

Average home roof ~1,700 sq ft. Rectangular roof: length × width × pitch factor.

Estimated roofing cost
$9,500 – $19,000
Get 3 written bids from licensed roofers
Material + labor$7,500 – $13,100
Tear-off$1,700 – $5,100
Permits + disposal$300 – $800
Total range$9,500 – $19,000
Show the formula
base = sqft × $/sqft × pitch × complexity × region
+tearoff = sqft × $1–$3
+decking = $500–$2,000 (if damaged)

Roofing cost by material (2026)

Average 2026 roof replacement on a 1,700 sq ft home costs $5,500–$17,000 depending on material.

  • 3-Tab Asphalt: $3–$5/sqft · 15–20 yr lifespan · cheapest
  • Architectural Asphalt: $4–$7/sqft · 25–30 yr lifespan · most common
  • Metal (steel/aluminum): $8–$16/sqft · 40–70 yr lifespan · energy efficient
  • Standing Seam Metal: $10–$18/sqft · 50+ yrs · premium
  • Clay / Concrete Tile: $10–$18/sqft · 50+ yrs · heavy, needs structural check
  • Slate: $15–$30/sqft · 75–200 yrs · highest-end
  • Wood Shake: $7–$13/sqft · 25–30 yrs · restricted in fire zones

What affects roofing cost

Roof size (squares)

Roofers price by "squares" — 1 square = 100 sq ft. An average 2,000 sq ft home has 20–25 squares of roof (pitch adds area).

Pitch / steepness

Steep roofs require harnesses, slower work, and premium labor. A 12/12 pitch adds 25–40% vs low-slope.

Complexity

Dormers, valleys, skylights, and chimneys all require flashing and extra care. Cut-up roofs cost 15–30% more.

Tear-off vs overlay

Tearing off old shingles adds $1–$3/sq ft but lets the roofer inspect decking and install a proper moisture barrier. Almost always worth it. Overlay voids many warranties and shortens new roof life by 20–25%.

How to save on a new roof

  • Get 3–4 written bids. Prices vary 20–40% for identical work.
  • File insurance claim first if damage is from hail/wind — many roofs qualify.
  • Schedule in winter / early spring. Off-season discounts of 10–15%.
  • Choose architectural over 3-tab. Only $1–$2/sq ft more but doubles lifespan.
  • Ask about manufacturer rebates. Owens Corning, GAF, CertainTeed run seasonal promos.
  • Avoid door-to-door storm chasers. Always use local licensed roofers with permanent addresses.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a new roof cost in 2026?

A new roof costs $5,500 to $17,000 in 2026 for an average 1,700-square-foot home. Asphalt shingles run $3-$7 per square foot installed. Metal roofing costs $8-$16 per square foot. Tile and slate cost $12-$25+ per square foot.

How long does a roof replacement take?

Most asphalt roof replacements take 1-3 days. Metal roofing takes 2-4 days. Tile or slate roofs take 5-10 days. Weather delays are common and add 1-2 days.

Does homeowners insurance cover a new roof?

Insurance covers roof replacement when damage is caused by a covered peril like hail, wind, or fallen trees. Age-based deterioration is not covered. File a claim within your policy deadline (typically 1-2 years of damage).

Should I tear off the old roof or overlay?

Tear-off is almost always recommended. Overlaying saves $1-$3 per sq ft but hides problems, voids many warranties, shortens new roof life by 20-25%, and many local codes prohibit more than two layers.

What roof lasts longest?

Slate lasts 75-200 years and is the longest. Metal lasts 40-70 years. Tile lasts 50+ years. Architectural asphalt lasts 25-30 years. 3-tab asphalt only lasts 15-20 years.