Roofing Cost & Material Guide
Per-square-foot pricing, material lifespans, and pitch impact on roofing costs.
How Much Does a New Roof Cost in 2026?
A new asphalt shingle roof costs $8,000–$18,000 for a typical 1,500–2,500 sq ft home, or $4–$8 per square foot installed.
- 3-tab asphalt shingles: $3.50–$5.50/sq ft installed
- Architectural shingles: $4.50–$7.50/sq ft installed (most popular)
- Metal roofing (standing seam): $8–$16/sq ft installed
- Tile (concrete/clay): $10–$20/sq ft installed
- Slate: $15–$30/sq ft installed
Roofing is priced per "square" (100 sq ft). A 2,000 sq ft roof is 20 squares. Average cost: $350–$700 per square for architectural shingles.
Key Takeaways
- Architectural shingles: $4.50–$7.50/sq ft installed
- Metal roofing: $8–$16/sq ft installed
- 1 roofing "square" = 100 sq ft
Roofing Material Lifespan Comparison
Architectural shingles last 25–30 years, while metal roofing lasts 40–70 years, making metal the better long-term investment.
- 3-tab shingles: 15–20 years
- Architectural shingles: 25–30 years
- Metal (standing seam): 40–70 years
- Concrete tile: 40–60 years
- Clay tile: 50–100 years
- Slate: 75–150 years
Warranty ≠ lifespan. Most manufacturer warranties have prorated coverage after 10–15 years, paying only a fraction of replacement cost.
Key Takeaways
- Architectural shingles: 25–30 years
- Metal roofing: 40–70 years
- Warranties are prorated after 10–15 years
Roof Pitch & Its Impact on Cost
Steeper roofs cost more due to safety equipment, slower work pace, and waste. A 12/12 pitch costs 30–50% more than a 4/12 pitch.
- Low slope (2/12–4/12): Standard pricing, walkable roof
- Medium slope (5/12–8/12): 10–20% cost increase
- Steep slope (9/12–12/12): 20–40% cost increase (scaffolding/harness required)
- Very steep (12/12+): 40–60% premium, specialized crews needed
Pitch also affects material quantity: steeper roofs have more surface area than the footprint suggests. A 12/12 pitch has 41% more area than the flat measurement.
Key Takeaways
- Steep roofs (9/12+): 20–40% cost premium
- 12/12 pitch: 41% more area than footprint
- Safety equipment required above 6/12 pitch
How to Use This Calculator
Enter your roof dimensions
Measure or estimate the length and width of your roof footprint in feet. For complex roofs, calculate each section separately and add them together.
Select your roof pitch
Choose your roof pitch from 4/12 to 12/12. The pitch multiplier adjusts the flat footprint area to the actual sloped roof area. If unsure, 6/12 is a common residential pitch.
Choose your roofing material
Select 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles, or metal roofing. Each option shows different cost per square and material requirements.
Review materials and cost estimate
See the number of squares, bundles, underlayment rolls, ridge cap, nails needed, and total cost range including optional labor.
Roofing Area & Material Formulas
Actual Roof Area = Footprint Area × Pitch Multiplier
Squares = Actual Roof Area / 100
Bundles = Squares × 3 (for shingles)
Underlayment Rolls = Roof Area / 400Where:
- Footprint Area
- = Roof length × width measured from the ground (flat area)
- Pitch Multiplier
- = Factor based on roof slope — ranges from 1.054 (4/12) to 1.414 (12/12)
- Square
- = Standard roofing unit equal to 100 square feet of roof area
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many shingles do I need for my roof?
Shingles are sold in bundles, and 3 bundles cover one roofing square (100 sq ft) for standard 3-tab or architectural shingles. First calculate your actual roof area (footprint x pitch multiplier), divide by 100 to get squares, then multiply by 3 for bundles. Always order 10-15% extra for waste, cuts, and starter strips.
How much does a new roof cost?
A new asphalt shingle roof typically costs $5,000 to $15,000 for a 1,500-2,000 sq ft home in 2026. Architectural shingles run $100-$150 per square for materials plus $150-$300 per square for labor. Metal roofing costs significantly more at $350-$700 per square but lasts 40-70 years versus 20-30 for shingles.
What is a roofing square?
A roofing square is the industry standard unit equal to 100 square feet of roof area. Roofers price materials and labor per square rather than per square foot. For example, a 2,000 sq ft roof equals 20 squares. This standardized unit makes it easier to compare bids and estimate materials.
How does roof pitch affect material quantity?
Steeper roofs have more surface area than their flat footprint. A 6/12 pitch adds about 12% to the footprint area, while a 12/12 (45-degree) pitch adds 41%. Steeper roofs also require more labor time and safety equipment, increasing installation costs by 10-25% compared to low-slope roofs.
Should I choose 3-tab or architectural shingles?
Architectural (dimensional) shingles are the better value for most homeowners. They cost only $10-$50 more per square than 3-tab but last 30 years versus 20 years, offer better wind resistance (130 mph vs 60 mph), and provide a more attractive layered appearance that increases curb appeal and home value.
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