Key takeaways
- Short answer: Asphalt shingles cost less up front: architectural shingles run about $450–$1,250 per square installed, while steel roofing runs $450–$1,700 and aluminum $650–$2,100.
- Shingles: $450–$1,250 per square
- Steel: $450–$1,700 per square
- Metal lasts 40–70 years
- Typical roofing cost: $6,700–$25,000 per roof replacement.
Cost and lifespan side by side
| Material | Installed cost per square | Typical lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| 3-tab asphalt shingles | $425–$825 | 15–20 years |
| Architectural shingles | $450–$1,250 | 25–30 years |
| Steel (metal) | $450–$1,700 | 40–70 years |
| Aluminum (metal) | $650–$2,100 | 40–70 years |
Which is better for your situation?
- Staying 15+ years: metal's long life usually wins on cost per year.
- Selling soon or tight budget: architectural shingles cost less now.
- Hail or wildfire areas: metal resists fire and many products carry impact ratings; ask about insurance discounts.
- Very hot climates: reflective metal and cool-roof shingles both help with cooling.
Cost per year of roof life
Divide the installed price by expected years. A roof that costs more up front but lasts twice as long can be cheaper over time. Use our roof cost per square guide or the cost estimator to price your roof size.
Related questions
Is a metal roof noisy in rain?
Over solid decking with underlayment, most homeowners find metal roofs only slightly louder than shingles.
Does a metal roof increase home value?
It can appeal to buyers because of its long life, but the resale premium varies by market.
Can metal go over existing shingles?
Some metal systems can, where codes allow, but tear-off lets roofers inspect and repair the decking.
Other roofing questions homeowners ask
Can you put a new roof over old shingles?
Many codes allow one overlay on a single layer of asphalt shingles, but a full tear-off is usually better. It exposes rotted decking and is preferred by many manufacturers and insurers.
Is a metal roof worth the cost?
For owners staying 15 years or more, often yes. Metal lasts 40–70 years and resists wind and fire, but it costs significantly more up front than shingles.
How much does it cost to replace a 2,000 sq ft roof?
A 2,000 sq ft roof is about 20 squares, or about 22–23 squares with 10%–15% waste. With architectural shingles, plan on roughly $6,700–$25,000, with most jobs near the middle of that range.
Roofing at a glance
Timeline
Most homes are re-roofed in 1–3 days. Large, steep or tile roofs take longer.
Permits
Most cities require a re-roofing permit and a final inspection. Your roofer should pull it.
DIY or pro?
Inspect from the ground with binoculars and keep gutters clean. Walking the roof, repairs and replacement are jobs for an insured pro.
What roof replacement and repair costs
Roof replacement typically costs $6,700–$25,000, and most homeowners spend about $14,000 for a 2,000 sq ft roof with architectural shingles. Metal, tile and slate cost more but last much longer.
Keep reading
Sources: Inch Calculator — Roof replacement cost. Ranges are rounded estimates; see our editorial policy.