Asphalt shingles are the most popular type of roofing in the US. They are affordable to produce and come with a lower price tag than many other types of roofing. But things can get pricey when it comes time to repair or replace your asphalt roof.

If you’ve noticed a leak in your roof or have experienced storm damage, it may be time for a repair or replacement.

Types of Asphalt Shingles

There are three types of asphalt shingles:3-tab shingles, luxury shingles, and dimensional shingles.

Each of them comes with pros, cons, and a different price point.

3-Tab Shingles

3-tab shingles lay flat against your roof and get their name from the three tabs found on every strip. Of the three types of asphalt shingles, these are the most affordable and used to be the most popular. The primary downside of these shingles is that they last only 15 to 20 years.

Luxury Shingles

Luxury shingles, also called premium shingles, are popular in luxury homes. Even though they are the most expensive of the three, people are choosing these shingles for their durability and the fact that they give the appearance of a slate roof.

Dimensional Shingles

Dimensional shingles provide a unique aesthetic, making your roof look like a wood shake roof. They are more expensive than 3-tab shingles but cheaper than luxury shingles. The price point and look they provide have made dimensional shingles the most popular choice for homeowners across the United States.

What Determines the Cost of Asphalt Shingle Repair and Replacement

Several factors determine how much it costs to repair or replace your asphalt shingle roof. For example, labor costs will vary depending on the contractor you use and where you live.

The size of the job is another big factor that impacts price. Not only do bigger jobs require more labor, but they require more material. If you need a small portion of shingles replaced, it will cost much less than replacing the entire roof.

You’ll also need to consider materials. Standard 3-tab shingles cost around $100 per square, while higher-end luxury shingles can cost as much as $480 per square. A square of shingles is enough to cover 100 square feet of roof.

What Type of Shingles Should I Choose?

Consider multiple factors when choosing an asphalt shingle. Your climate will play a major role in how long your shingles last and what type of shingles you should choose. Asphalt shingles don’t last as long in humid, hot areas like the southwest as they do in cooler climates in the northeast.

3-tab shingles last between 15 and 20 years. While this is a long time for a roof to last, you may be looking at multiple roof replacements if you plan on living in one house for decades. If you are a young homeowner who has found your forever home, you may be looking at several roof replacements over the years.

Dimensional shingles are a popular choice because of their cost and durability. Since these shingles have two or more layers, they can last anywhere from 20 to 25 years, making them a popular choice for homeowners.

Luxury shingles are the most expensive, but they also last the longest. On average, luxury shingles last 30 years. Since most mortgages are for 30 years, this means homeowners can expect to have to put one roof on their home during the life of their mortgage.

How Much Will It Cost to Replace My Asphalt Shingle Roof?

With so many factors to consider, you may wonder what the total cost is to replace an asphalt shingle roof. To give you an idea of how much a new roof will cost, we’ll assume that you live in a home with an average 1,500-square-foot roof.

Your cost breakdown should look similar to this one:

Cost of Shingles: $1,725 to $2,641Labor Cost: $3,615 to $4,382Additional Supplies Required for Installation: $530 to $603Cost of Specialty Equipment: $71 to $107Removal of the Old Roof: $742 to $3,129Debris Disposal: $337 to $384Total Cost: $7,020 to $11,064

Note this cost does not include the replacement of any sheathing that may have been damaged. Sheets of plywood can cost anywhere between $20 and $70.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)FAQ

How long will it take to repair or replace my roof?

Roof repairs will depend on the size of the job. If your entire roof has to be replaced, the process will take several days. If a single area needs to be repaired, the job can be completed in a few hours.

What type of shingles should I install?

If you live in an area with harsh winters or extreme heat, you should choose a higher grade of shingle. If you live in an area with mild weather year around, 3-tab shingles are cost-effective and will last for up to 20 years.

Is there anything I can do to make my shingles last longer?

Installing ice guards and drip edges installed on your roof can add years to your roof’s lifespan.You should also make sure that you keep your gutters cleaned out so water can’t build up on your roof.

What It All Means for You

When choosing a contractor to replace the asphalt shingle roof, ask for estimates from at least four companies in your area. If any of their estimates are extreme outliers, it may be a good idea to stay away from those companies.

Knowing how much a roofing replacement should cost can help you make the right decision and create a budget that works for you.