4 variables of roof replacement costs

By Westfall Roofing. 

Your roof’s price tag isn’t just about shingles, it’s a story of structure, scale and what lies beneath. 

Sticker shock is common when homeowners first hear what a new roof might cost, but that surprise usually comes from not knowing what goes into the overall number. At Westfall Roofing, we know roofing isn’t one-dimensional. It’s a high-stakes blend of design, engineering, labor and local climate demands. And while everyone wants a ballpark figure, the truth is more complicated. Before you open your checkbook or click “get a quote,” here’s four key components everyone should understand about what really drives the price of a roof. 

1 – Roof complexity: More than meets the eye 

A home may have one, two or even three levels. Its roofs may be vast expanses of smooth, gentle slopes or Victorian wonders with turrets, gables and dormers. These variations in design significantly impact the cost of installation. 

Questions that impact pricing: 

• How many stories is your home? The higher the roof, the more effort and safety equipment is required. 
• What’s the slope of your roof? Steep-pitched roofs are more difficult and more hazardous to work on. 
• How accessible is your roof? Roofs surrounded by trees, pools, fences or delicate landscaping take more time to access and navigate. 

Does your roof have complex architectural features? Dormers, valleys, skylights and turrets require additional materials and labor to waterproof correctly. 

Steeper roofs require more safety precautions for roofers than low-slope or gently sloping roofs. More complexity means more time, labor and materials, so don’t be surprised if your unique roof style influences the bottom line. 

2 – What’s underneath the shingles matters 

Many homeowners focus on the roofing material they can see, but the unseen layers underneath are just as important and can significantly affect your costs. After peeling away a roof’s visible layer, you expose the underlayment and sheathing. 

Two key components under the roof surface: 

• Roof decking (sheathing): This is the wooden layer (typically OSB or plywood) that forms the base of your roof. If parts of it are damaged, moldy or rotted, they must be replaced before new roofing can be installed. 
• Underlayment: This protective layer lies between the decking and the roofing material. Options include synthetic underlayment (lightweight, durable and water-resistant) or self-adhering underlayment (peel and stick) for enhanced waterproofing, which is especially important in storm-prone areas. 

A thorough roofing estimate from Westfall Roofing will include per-sheet replacement or linear foot pricing for sheathing and perimeter wood, so you know what to expect if hidden damage is uncovered during the project. 

3 – Roof size: Bigger isn’t always better for your budget 

While your home’s square footage gives you a rough idea of size, your roof’s actual surface area is almost always larger, especially if you have overhangs, multiple slopes or architectural flourishes. 

Roofing is measured in “squares,” with one square equaling 100 square feet. A compact home might require just 15–20 squares, while a large or complex home could need 40–60 squares or more. 

More surface area means: 

• More shingles, tiles or metal panels 
• More underlayment and decking 
• More drip edge, flashing and ventilation systems 

Every square foot adds up, so knowing the size and scope of your roof is critical in planning your project and your budget. 

4 – Roofing material: Choose what’s right for your home 

The material you choose for your new roof will have a major impact on the overall cost, not just during installation but also over the long term. Some climates may require different materials. For example, Florida’s climate, which includes high heat, heavy rainfall and hurricane threats, demands roofing materials that are durable and wind resistant. 

Common roofing materials and their cost considerations: 

• Asphalt shingles: These are the most popular and budget-friendly option. At Westfall Roofing, we proudly offer Owens Corning shingles, which are known for their performance and style. As a Platinum Preferred Contractor, we can offer their exclusive Platinum Protection Warranty – a strong investment in your home’s future. (All warranties are subject to individual agreements. Please read your agreement for specific details.) 
• Metal roofing: While more expensive to install, metal roofs are incredibly durable, energy-efficient and long-lasting, often lasting 40 to 70 years. They’re excellent at reflecting solar heat, which helps reduce cooling costs in Florida’s intense sun. But what truly sets them apart here in Florida is their wind resistance. During Hurricane Ian, we saw metal roofs outlast every other type, especially in the hardest-hit coastal areas. In regions vulnerable to hurricanes, this kind of resilience isn’t just a bonus, it’s essential. 
• Tile roofing: Tile roofs, often made of clay or concrete, are aesthetically pleasing and the best against fire. They can last up to 30-40 years or more, but are heavier and typically more expensive than other options. Your home’s structure must be evaluated to ensure it can support the additional weight. 

Each material comes in a range of styles, colors and quality tiers, allowing you to find something that fits your budget while complementing your home’s look. 

5 – Warranties and workmanship: Don’t overlook the value of protection 

While warranties may not be top-of-mind during budgeting, they can be a powerful way to protect your investment. Roofing systems from manufacturers like Owens Corning come with a range of warranties depending on the contractor and the materials selected. With Westfall Roofing, you get peace of mind knowing you’re working with a certified installer who can offer the best warranty protection available. 

In addition to manufacturer warranties, be sure to ask about our workmanship warranty—this covers the quality of the installation itself. 

Original article and photo source: Westfall Roofing