The total cost of your roof replacement is a sum of several parts. Let’s look at the biggest drivers of the final price.

1. Roofing Materials

The material you choose is the single largest factor in the overall cost. Each option comes with a different price point, lifespan, and aesthetic.

• Asphalt Shingles: The most common choice for North Carolina homes, asphalt shingles offer a great balance of affordability and durability. Architectural shingles, a popular upgrade from basic 3-tab versions, provide better longevity and wind resistance, generally lasting 25-30 years. They are a cost-effective solution for most homeowners.
• Metal Roofing: Once used mainly for commercial buildings, metal roofing is now a popular residential choice due to its exceptional durability and modern look. While the upfront cost is higher than shingles, a metal roof can last 50 years or more. It’s also highly resistant to wind and fire, and its reflective properties can help lower your cooling bills.
• Tile and Slate: These are premium, “lifetime” roofing materials. Clay, concrete, or slate tiles offer unparalleled longevity (50-100+ years) and a distinctive, high-end appearance. The material cost is significantly higher, and they require a reinforced roof structure and specialized installation, adding to the overall expense.

2. Roof Size and Complexity

The old saying “size matters” is certainly true for roofing. A larger, more complex roof requires more materials and more labor, directly impacting the cost.

• Square Footage: Roofers measure in “squares,” where one square equals 100 square feet. The more squares your roof has, the higher the cost.
• Pitch or Steepness: A steep roof is more difficult and dangerous for crews to work on. It requires extra safety equipment and more time, which increases labor costs.
• Complexity: A simple, single-plane gable roof is straightforward to replace. A roof with multiple valleys, dormers, chimneys, and skylights is far more complex. Each of these features requires custom cutting, flashing, and sealing, adding significant time and skill to the job.

3. Labor Costs

Labor is a substantial part of any roof replacement quote. This cost covers not just the physical installation but also the removal and disposal of your old roof. The quality of the installation is just as important as the quality of the materials. A poorly installed roof will fail prematurely, no matter how expensive the materials were.

Choosing a reputable contractor like Carolina Professional Roof Systems ensures you have an experienced, insured crew working on your home. While it might be tempting to choose the cheapest bid, low labor costs can be a red flag for cutting corners, using inexperienced workers, or lacking proper insurance.

4. Project-Specific Variables

Beyond the main factors, other costs can arise based on the condition of your existing roof structure.

• Old Roof Removal: Most quotes include tearing off one layer of old shingles. If you have multiple layers, the removal cost will be higher.
• Decking Repair: The wooden sheathing or “decking” underneath your shingles can suffer from water damage or rot over time. If the decking is soft or damaged, it must be replaced to provide a solid foundation for your new roof. This is often an unknown cost until the old roof is removed.
• Permits and Location: Your municipality may require a permit for a roof replacement, which comes with a fee. Labor rates and disposal fees can also vary slightly depending on your specific location in North Carolina.