How long does a new roof last?

Architectural asphalt: 25-30 years. Metal: 40-60+. Tile: 50-100. Slate: 75-150. The manufacturer warranty is usually shorter than the real life of the material.

Do I need to be home during a roof install?

No. Most full roofs are a 1-3 day job. Move cars out of the driveway and cover anything fragile in the attic — vibration shakes things loose.

Roof installation cost in the U.S.

A full roof replacement typically falls in the range below. Material is the biggest variable; pitch, layers, and decking repair drive the rest.

Typical national range

$12,000

typical project

Most projects fall between $6,000 and $30,000.

Industry estimate from public-source pricing data. Local prices vary widely — see your metro area below.

Factors that move the price

Material
Architectural asphalt shingles are the default. Metal, tile, and slate run 2-4× higher but last decades longer. Get the per-square (100 sq ft) price either way.
Roof size + pitch
Pricing scales with squares. Steep pitches (>8/12) add staging and harness work, which raises labor 15-30%.
Tear-off + decking
Old shingles have to come off. If the wood decking under them is rotted or delaminating, expect a per-sheet repair cost line item.
Underlayment + flashing
Synthetic underlayment + ice-and-water shield at eaves and valleys, plus new flashing around chimneys and pipes, is non-negotiable on a quality install.
Ventilation
Most homes are under-vented. Adding ridge vent + soffit vents at the same time is cheap insurance against shingle premature failure.

Browse by metro area

Prices in your area can run noticeably above or below the national number depending on labor costs, permitting, and material availability. Pick your metro for a localized range.

Get real quotes for your project

These ranges are useful for ballparking, but the only way to know what your specific project will cost is to get quotes from local contractors. Submit your project once and let them come to you.

Related guides

Common questions

How long does a new roof last?: Architectural asphalt: 25-30 years. Metal: 40-60+. Tile: 50-100. Slate: 75-150. The manufacturer warranty is usually shorter than the real life of the material.
Do I need to be home during a roof install?: No. Most full roofs are a 1-3 day job. Move cars out of the driveway and cover anything fragile in the attic — vibration shakes things loose.