roof installation cost

What Factors Influence Roof Installation Cost?

In Phoenix, Arizona, the rainy period lasts for roughly 8.8 months.

The month with the most rain can get around 1.1 inches on average.

Homeowners also have to deal with excessive heat during the summer as well as high humidity.

If your roof isn’t in good condition, then you’ll struggle during these months.

You’ll have to deal with leaks, poor indoor cooling, and pests.

Patch jobs will only work for so long before you need a replacement.

Here are seven factors that can affect your roof installation cost and how to navigate them.

1. Roofing Material Costs

One of the biggest contributors to roof installation costs is the roofing material you choose.

Different materials have their own benefits, but they also come with varying costs.

Asphalt shingles are the most affordable option for your home, but they’re not the most durable.

You can expect a quick and easy installation if you opt for these.

In contrast, slate roofing is the most expensive material you can buy.

It’s very durable and can last a century or more.

However, it will need added structural support and may not be compatible with your home as-is. 

Metal roofing is somewhere in the middle for cost. It offers a good balance of durability and energy efficiency.

2. Roof Size Estimation

A big factor in roof installation costs is the size of your roof. Your roof is measured in squares, and one square equals 100 square feet.

Larger roofs need more materials and labor. 

Your roofing contractor will want to first get on top of your roof to give you a good estimate of how long the work will take and how much it’ll cost.

Steeper roofs have more surface area and can lead to more complicated installations.

A roof with multiple levels or complex architectural features will also take longer to complete.

3. Labor Costs for Roofing

The cost of roof installation includes the cost of labor.

Roof installers don’t work for free, after all.

Labor costs will vary based on the complexity of the installation, the contractor’s experience level, and local market conditions.

You’ll often find it more expensive to hire roofers in a major city than you will in a rural area.

Some roofing materials are more difficult to install and take more time.

Slate and tile require more skilled labor than an asphalt roof.

Roofs that are difficult to access require safety precautions.

If they need to remove an old roof, they’ll need to figure out a way to dispose of it.

The job will also take longer than a repair job.

Finally, weather conditions could make the job more dangerous than normal.

Despite that, emergency repair jobs will sometimes have to be done during extreme weather conditions to protect the home.

4. Roofing Underlayment and Insulation

The underlayment used with your primary roofing material will affect the cost of the installation.

Installers use the underlayment as a form of extra protection between the roof and the rest of your home.

It’s especially useful in areas with extreme temperatures or weather conditions, such as hurricanes or snowstorms.

Something like a synthetic roof underlayment provides unmatched durability and longevity.

It can handle extreme weather conditions and protect your home from excess moisture. 

The biggest issue is the cost.

It’s typically more expensive than traditional felt underlayment.

In addition, synthetic materials aren’t as eco-friendly as the alternatives.

5. Roofing Permits Cost

Any major home improvement project will require a permit to complete.

Roofing permits ensure that the installation complies with current building codes and safety standards.

Your home insurance company will also want to know that you’re making legal changes to your home.

The costs of these permits will run anywhere from $150 to $500, depending on the scope of the project.

Some areas may charge more if the property is in a historic district.

The good thing is that most contractors will handle the permit process on your behalf as part of the package.

You won’t have to go through the complicated process of applying for and providing construction documents.

6. Local Roofing Regulations

Regulations and laws in your area will determine the types of materials that you can use on your home as well as the installation methods.

The reason for this is that your roof may need to meet fire, wind, or seismic safety standards. 

For example, Arizona can suffer from temperatures as high as 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

The wrong kind of roofing material or underlayment can result in these materials breaking down over time.

Your area may also have environmental regulations requiring the use of eco-friendly materials.

These materials usually cost more upfront but may reduce long-term energy costs.

If you live in a neighborhood with a Homeowner’s Association, they will have additional rules regarding your roof.

7. Roofing Contractor’s Experience and Reputation

A major factor influencing the cost of your roof installation is the contractor you hire.

Their experience level and reputation can heavily influence the cost as they may charge more for their services.

At the same time, they offer a guarantee of quality workmanship and fewer issues later on.

Reputable contractors usually offer warranties on their work to cover repairs or replacements.

These will increase the upfront cost.

To protect yourself, always make sure to research the contractors in your area.

Get referrals from friends and family who have had recent work.

Once you’ve made a list, get a few quotes.

These will give you an idea of the expected costs and help narrow down your options.

Negotiate a Good Roof Installation Cost

Your roof installation cost will vary greatly based on all of these factors, ranging from the roofing material to the cost of an experienced contractor.

However, it’s important not to pinch pennies when it comes to your roof.

Spend a little extra for something that will last longer and can handle turbulent weather conditions.

AZ Roofing Works provides affordable roof repair and replacement services with 50 years of industry experience.

You can hire us for your roofing needs anywhere across the Greater Phoenix Valley area.

Contact us by phone or email with any questions about our services.


Looking for the Top Roof Replacement Company in Scottsdale?
Look no further! Trust AZ Roofing Works for rapid, expert roof replacement services. Our dedicated team is ready to efficiently handle all your roofing needs.
Contact Us Today or call our office directly at (602) 283-3383 for immediate assistance!