Key takeaways
- Short answer: A roofing square is 100 square feet.
- 1 square = 100 sq ft of roof
- Architectural shingles: $450–$1,250 per square
- Tear-off adds $100–$150 per square
- Typical roofing cost: $6,700–$25,000 per roof replacement.
Cost per square by material
| 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 |
| Tile | $500–$1,800 | 50+ years |
| Cedar shake | $800–$1,430 | 20–30 years |
| Slate | $1,200–$2,200+ | 75–100+ years |
How to work out how many squares you need
Your roof area is larger than your home's floor area because of pitch and overhangs. Roofers measure the roof itself, then add about 10%–15% for waste. A 2,000 sq ft roof is 20 squares before waste.
Try our home repair cost estimator to turn your roof size and material into a local estimate.
What else is in a per-square price
- Underlayment, starter strips and ridge caps
- Flashing, pipe boots and vents
- Labor, cleanup and disposal (tear-off is often separate)
- Permit fees, which vary by city
Related questions
Why do quotes per square vary so much?
Roof pitch, number of layers to remove, decking repairs, access and the shingle line all change the price. Ask for itemized quotes.
Is tear-off included in the price per square?
Not always. Tear-off typically adds $100–$150 per square, so confirm it is included before comparing bids.
How many squares is a 2,000 sq ft roof?
Twenty squares, or about 22–23 squares once 10%–15% waste is added.
Other roofing questions homeowners ask
How much does it cost to replace a 2,000 sq ft roof?
A 2,000 sq ft roof is about 20 squares (often 22–24 with pitch and waste). With architectural shingles, plan on roughly $6,700–$25,000, with most jobs near the middle of that range.
What does a new roof cost per square foot?
Architectural asphalt shingles typically run about $4.50–$12.50 per square foot installed, steel roofing about $4.50–$17 and tile about $5–$18. Roofers usually quote per square (100 sq ft).
How much does a roof inspection cost?
Independent roof inspections commonly cost a few hundred dollars. Many roofers inspect free after storms, but an independent inspector has nothing to sell you.
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.
Will insurance pay for a new roof after hail?
Usually, if hail or wind caused sudden damage and your policy covers it. You pay the deductible, which is often a percentage of dwelling coverage in storm-prone states. Normal wear and old age are not covered.
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.
Do I need a roof repair or a full replacement?
Repair when damage is limited to a small area on a roof with plenty of life left. Replace when the roof is near the end of its life, has widespread curling or granule loss, or leaks in several places.
What is the best time of year to replace a roof?
Late spring through fall works best in most climates, and fall is often the least busy season. Shingles need warm days to seal properly.
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.