We understand that getting started on projects whether it be installing a roof or any maintenance on a big structure can be stressful and confusing. We are here to answer all your questions and try to make your life easier. Our blog might have content that already answers a lot of your questions Below are common questions that we get all the time:
How much does it cost to fix or replace a roof?
The cost to fix or replace a roof depends on several factors, including the size of the roof, the materials used, the extent of the damage, labor costs, and your location. Here’s a general breakdown:
Roof Repair Costs
Minor repairs: $150 – $1,500 (e.g., patching leaks, replacing a few shingles)
Moderate repairs: $1,500 – $3,000 (e.g., fixing flashing, larger leaks, moderate damage)
Major repairs: $3,000 – $7,000+ (e.g., structural damage, sagging roof)
Roof Replacement Costs
Asphalt shingles: $5,000 – $12,000
Metal roofing: $10,000 – $30,000
Tile roofing: $15,000 – $35,000
Slate roofing: $20,000 – $50,000+
Cost per Square Foot
Asphalt shingles: $3 – $6 per sq. ft.
Metal roofing: $5 – $15 per sq. ft.
Tile roofing: $7 – $25 per sq. ft.
Slate roofing: $10 – $30 per sq. ft.
Other Cost Factors
Roof size & pitch: Steeper roofs cost more due to labor difficulty.
Permits & inspections: Typically $150 – $500.
Old roof removal: $1 – $5 per sq. ft.
Labor costs: Vary by region, typically 40%–60% of the total cost.
When should you replace your gutters and how do I know when?
Gutters typically last 20–30 years, depending on the material and maintenance. However, they may need replacement sooner if they show signs of damage.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Gutters
1. Visible Damage & Wear
Cracks or splits – Even small cracks will expand over time.
Rust & corrosion – Common in older metal gutters.
Sagging or pulling away from the house – This can indicate weakened fasteners or structural issues.
Peeling paint or orange flecks – Signs of moisture damage or rust.
2. Water Issues
Pooling water near the foundation – Gutters failing to direct water properly.
Overflowing gutters – Can mean they’re clogged, misaligned, or too small.
Water stains on siding or fascia boards – Indicates leaks or improper drainage.
3. Mold, Mildew, or Erosion
Mold or mildew on walls or foundation – Caused by excess moisture.
Erosion in landscaping – Water spilling over instead of draining properly.
4. Frequent Repairs
If you’re frequently patching leaks, replacing sections, or fixing fasteners, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire system.
When to Replace vs. Repair?
Replace: If more than 25% of your gutters are damaged, rusted, or sagging.
Repair: If the issues are minor (e.g., loose brackets, small leaks, or isolated damage).
How to calculate the cost of a roofing project?
To estimate the cost of a roofing project, follow these steps:
Here is a useful tool for calculating roofing projects
Step 1: Measure Your Roof Size
Find the square footage of your roof
Measure the length and width of each section of the roof.
Multiply Length × Width to get the area of each section.
Add up the areas of all sections for the total square footage.
Account for roof pitch (slope)
If your roof is steep, multiply by a roof pitch factor:
Low slope (3/12 or less): 1.05
Medium slope (4/12 – 6/12): 1.2
Steep slope (7/12 – 9/12): 1.4
Very steep (10/12+): 1.6+
Example: If your roof is 2,000 sq. ft. with a 6/12 pitch, the adjusted area is:
2,000 × 1.2 = 2,400 sq. ft.
Step 2: Determine Material Costs
Multiply the total roof area by the cost per square (1 square = 100 sq. ft.). Here are average costs per square:
Asphalt shingles: $100 – $400 per square
Metal roofing: $300 – $1,200 per square
Tile roofing: $600 – $2,000 per square
Slate roofing: $800 – $3,000 per square
Example for asphalt shingles:
2,400 sq. ft. ÷ 100 = 24 squares × $250 per square = $6,000
Step 3: Add Labor Costs
Labor generally accounts for 40% – 60% of total costs.
Roofing labor costs $1.50 – $3.00 per sq. ft. or $50 – $80 per hour per roofer.
Example for a 2,400 sq. ft. roof:
Labor = $1.75 × 2,400 = $4,200
Step 4: Include Additional Costs
Old roof removal: $1 – $5 per sq. ft.
Flashing, vents, and underlayment: $500 – $2,000
Permits: $150 – $500
Step 5: Total the Costs
| Cost Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Roofing Materials | $6,000 |
| Labor | $4,200 |
| Roof Removal | $2,400 |
| Additional Materials | $1,000 |
| Permits | $300 |
| Total Cost Estimate | $13,900 |
Roof Replacement Cost by Home Size (Asphalt Shingles)
| Home Size (sq. ft.) | Roof Area (sq. ft.) | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 sq. ft. | ~1,200 sq. ft. | $5,000 – $8,000 |
| 1,500 sq. ft. | ~1,800 sq. ft. | $7,000 – $12,000 |
| 2,000 sq. ft. | ~2,400 sq. ft. | $10,000 – $15,000 |
| 3,000 sq. ft. | ~3,600 sq. ft. | $15,000 – $22,000 |
What is the 25% rule in roofing
If the damage exceeds 25% of the roof’s surface area and the roofing work was permitted at the time of installation, the insurance company may cover the cost of replacing the entire roofing section.
Here is a good resource
Key Points of the 25% Rule:
If more than 25% of a roof is damaged, many insurance policies and local building codes require a full roof replacement rather than just repairing the damaged sections.
The rule is based on the idea that extensive repairs (covering more than 25% of the surface) may not provide a structurally sound or long-lasting solution.
Some state building codes (like Florida’s) enforce this rule, especially in areas prone to hurricanes, storms, or hail damage.
Can I install my own gutters?
Yes, you can install your own gutters if you have the right tools, materials, and DIY skills. However, it requires careful planning to ensure proper water drainage and prevent future issues.
Here is a DIY video on how to install gutters on your own
Pros of DIY Gutter Installation
✅ Cost Savings – DIY installation can save $1,000–$2,500 in labor costs.
✅ Custom Fit – You can tailor the gutters to your home’s exact needs.
✅ Satisfaction – If you’re handy, it’s a rewarding project.
Cons of DIY Gutter Installation
❌ Time-Consuming – May take a full weekend or more.
❌ Risk of Mistakes – Improper installation can lead to water damage, sagging, or leaks.
❌ Safety Hazards – Working on ladders and roofs can be dangerous.
What does homeowners insurance cover?
Homeowners insurance can cover more than just roofing—it typically includes protection for your home structure, belongings, liability, and additional living expenses in case of covered damages.
1️⃣ Roof Coverage
✅ Covered (if damage is caused by covered perils):
Storm damage (wind, hail, lightning)
Fire
Falling objects (like trees)
Vandalism
❌ Not Covered:
Normal wear and tear
Poor maintenance
Improper installation
Gradual damage (mold, rot, pests)
💡 Tip: If your roof is over 20 years old, insurers may cover only its actual cash value (ACV) instead of full replacement cost.
2️⃣ Dwelling Coverage (Structure of Your Home)
Covers your house and attached structures (walls, floors, ceilings, built-in appliances, etc.) if damaged by:
✅ Fire, windstorms, hail, lightning, vandalism, theft, falling objects
❌ Does NOT cover: Floods, earthquakes (need separate policies), general wear & tear
3️⃣ Personal Property Coverage
✅ Covers your belongings (furniture, electronics, clothes, etc.) if damaged or stolen.
May cover items lost outside the home (e.g., stolen laptop).
Expensive items (jewelry, art) may need extra coverage.
💡 Tip: Coverage is usually 50–70% of dwelling coverage.
4️⃣ Liability Protection
✅ If someone gets injured on your property (e.g., slip and fall, dog bite), insurance covers medical bills and legal fees.
✅ If you accidentally damage someone else’s property (e.g., your tree falls on a neighbor’s house).
5️⃣ Additional Living Expenses (ALE)
✅ Covers temporary housing, food, and other expenses if your home is unlivable due to covered damage.
What Homeowners Insurance Does NOT Cover
🚫 Floods (requires separate flood insurance)
🚫 Earthquakes (requires earthquake insurance)
🚫 Termite & pest damage
🚫 Mold (unless caused by a covered peril)
🚫 Foundation settling/cracking due to normal wear
🚫 Intentional damage