The Cost Of Getting A New Roof

When you think about a new roof for your home, there’s a lot to think about. This is a major project that will affect your entire property and there are plenty of reasons why you might decide this is work worth doing. The cost of a new roof is just one factor, but you’ll also need to consider the materials and labour, too.

With any such big home improvement project, it’s a good idea to think about whether you need the help of a professional and what the end result should be. There’s going to be disruption, too, and the longer the work goes on, the more likely it is that the weather could cause further problems.

Why Might You Consider Getting A New Roof?

There are plenty of reasons why you might consider getting a new roof for your property. Knowing what’s behind the project will help you find what you want to do, how to budget for it and what kind of disruptions you need to prepare for.

We’ve collected some of the most common reasons that homeowners opt to install a new roof below.

As A Result Of Damage

The most common reason to get a new roof for your home is because of damage. Whether it comes from extreme weather conditions, debris or through age, it’s always a good idea to inspect your roof for issues on a regular basis. If you spot leaks or mold, then your roof could be the cause. A new roof could solve issues and prevent future problems.

Before opting for a full new roof, consider whether a roof repair will be a better option. You can find matching materials and patch up any holes or replace damaged beams quicker than you can replace a full roof. It might also be more financially responsible, so an option worth considering.

For A New Aesthetic

When you feel it’s time for a change, there are plenty of ways to make your home really stand out. A new roof is a great way to stand out. Whether you want to add some contrast to the aesthetic or add extra protection from the weather, you can choose the right style, colour and materials that adds your personal touch to the building.

You can also add flourishes and design features that compliment the building, the neighbourhood and even natural features in the area.

As Part Of A Conversion Or Extension

Another reason to get a new roof installed is as part of an attic conversion or home extension. Some projects, such as adding space to your attic to make it a usable and livable space, means raising the roof and while you can lift it to a new height, you can also change to a different style.

A new roof might only be needed on a part of your home, such as added dormers or altering the type of roof to better suit your needs. Extensions to your home will also need roofs, so there are plenty of reasons why you would think about adding a new roof.

How Much Does A New Roof Cost?

Like any new project, it’s important to set expectations from the start. You know what you want to end up with, but getting to that stage is trickier. Set a budget from the start that covers the cost of materials, labour and any administrative costs that will be involved. Start with an ideal budget that you’d like to work with but know what your hard limit is in case of unexpected surprises.

Also think about how long the project should take. Check the weather conditions for anything that might slow or disrupt the work, as well as adding any risks to safety. This is where an expert might be able to help while you balance daily responsibilities.

Consult An Expert

It’s easy to get carried away with the idea of a new project, especially when you have a lot of inspiration and motivation to get started. Before starting any work, however, it’s always best to seek out the advice of an expert to make sure the work you’re planning is suitable. 

Whether you use them to confirm what you would do and the materials you would use or need the labour to make sure everything runs to the right budget and deadlines, you’ll also learn about any permissions or planning permits you’ll need to complete any work. These are always worth checking to make sure work isn’t stopped at the worst moment or extra costs come to light.

What Materials Can You Choose?

There are plenty of roofing materials to choose from when thinking about a new roof. You can opt for the same type of tile or roofing that you have already, but there are other options, too.

Asphalt Shingles

One of the most popular options for roofs are asphalt shingles. They look smart, are durable against a lot of different weather conditions and fit into most budgets. Different sizes and colours are available, and they last around 20 years or more, so you don’t have to spend too much time replacing them.

Slate Tiles

Slate tiles are the best looking option for any roof thanks to the material they’re made from. Compared to other materials, they also last a lot longer - up to 50 years on average. This makes them more expensive but the investment can be well worth it.

Clay Tiles

One of the most recognisable types of roof material are clay tiles. Their distinctive colour and style are seen on many homes. Being naturally fire-resistant is another advantage, and they last on average for 50 years, making them a good investment that will handle plenty of extreme weather conditions.

Wood Shake

For a more natural look, wood shake is a popular roofing material. This really embraces nature and is often seen in the countryside. Cedar wood is commonly used, but there are plastic or rubber versions, too. It does need a lot of maintenance and will need to be replaced within 20 years.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is an increasingly popular material. There are plenty of options to choose from, and the metal you decide on will affect the price you pay. They give a more industrial look but can be used on most roof designs. They’re great for ensuring water runs off your property safely and will last upwards of 50 years on average.

The Cost Of A New Roof

When working out the cost of a new roof, you need to take into account not only the materials you plan to use, the type of roof you’re installing and the cost of any labour you hire to help with or carry out the work.

A new roof will cost anywhere from $5,000 to $11,000, with the average cost coming in at around $8,000.

More expensive materials and larger properties will see our total towards the upper end of this estimate, with the possibility of the cost getting higher, too. Where you live and any extras you have in mind, such as detailing, design flourishes or extra strengthening to the support joists could also have an impact on the final cost of getting a new roof installed.

Got Questions About Getting A New Roof?

While getting a new roof is a big project, it’s an important one to get right. Any gaps or holes allows cold air and water to enter the building, which can cause damage and mean you keep the heating on much longer - increasing energy bills. A good roof also matters when it’s time to sell your home, and your investment will pay off at this stage.

If you’d like to know more about the cost of a new roof, the materials you can choose and which is best for you, get in touch with a member of our team.