If you’re a property owner in Western New York, you might wonder if your roof is due for replacement – and, more importantly, what the financial impact might be.
Let’s face it: replacing a roof isn’t something homeowners are excited about. But in our region, where we experience a wide range of weather conditions, from heavy snowfall to intense summer heat, a reliable roof is crucial for protecting your property.
At Buffalo’s Best Roofing Company, we have replaced hundreds of roofs in the area and can help you explore the average costs, discuss factors that can influence the price, and provide some insights to help you make an informed decision.
So, what can you expect to invest if you need to replace your roof in Western New York?
The current average cost of replacing a roof in Western New York is around $8,000. Your roof replacement project will usually cost between $6,000 and $15,000. However, premium materials and other factors can also increase this cost.
Let us look at what they are:
#1 Type Of Roofing Material
The major factor that can influence the cost of a roof replacement is the type of roofing material you install. As a homeowner, you have a variety of choices, irrespective of whether you have a pitched roof or a flat system.
In the section below, we have categorized these materials based on their price range.
Most Affordable Roofing Materials:
Asphalt Shingles:
Cost: $3 to $6 per square foot installed
Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing material for homes due to their affordability and ease of installation. They come in three main varieties: 3-tab shingles, which are the most basic and least expensive; architectural shingles, which offer a more dimensional appearance and better durability; and luxury shingles, which mimic the look of high-end materials like slate or wood.
For More Information: A Homeowner’s Guide to Types Of Roof Shingles and Their Cost
Aluminum Roofs:
Cost: $5 to $10 per square foot installed
Aluminum roofs are a lightweight, rust-resistant option, particularly well-suited for homes in coastal or rainy areas. They reflect heat efficiently, helping to reduce energy costs. Aluminum roofs are also highly recyclable, making them an eco-friendly choice.
Mid-Range Roofing Options
Tile Roofs:
Cost: $8 to $20 per square foot installed
Tile roofs, made from clay or concrete, are prized for their durability and distinctive appearance. They often have high resistance to fire, insects, and rot. Tiles are available in various styles, including Spanish, mission, and flat tiles, each offering a unique aesthetic appeal. While tile roofs are heavy and require a strong underlying structure, they can last 50 years or more with proper maintenance.
Steel Roofs:
Cost: $8 to $15 per square foot installed
Steel roofs are exceptionally durable and capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions, including heavy snow and high winds. They are often coated with a protective layer to prevent rust and extend their lifespan. Steel roofs are versatile in design, with options that can replicate the look of shingles, tiles, or slate. They are also energy-efficient, reflecting sunlight to reduce cooling costs.
Premium Roofing Options
Slate Roofs
Cost: $9 to $25 per square foot installed
Slate roofs are renowned for their natural beauty and unmatched durability. Made from natural stone, slate tiles can last over a century with proper care, making them a long-term investment. They are fire-resistant, environmentally friendly, and available in a range of natural colors.
Copper Roofs
Cost: $15 to $30 or more per square foot installed
Copper roofs are a symbol of luxury and elegance, known for their distinctive appearance that develops a beautiful green patina over time. However, copper is among the most expensive roofing materials available.
Zinc Roofs
Cost: $10 to $20 per square foot installed
Zinc roofs offer a unique combination of style, sustainability, and longevity. Zinc is a self-healing material, meaning scratches and imperfections will gradually disappear as the metal develops a protective patina. But like copper, this also has a pretty expensive price.
#2 Size of Your Roof
The size of your roof is one of the most significant factors influencing the overall cost of your roofing replacement project. Larger roofs require more materials, labor, and time to complete, which directly increases the total expense. Additionally, as the roof size increases, the complexity of installation can also rise, particularly if your roof has multiple slopes, valleys, or intricate designs.
Estimated Costs for Different Roof Sizes:
- 1,000 sq. ft.: $2,500 to $10,000
- 1,500 sq. ft.: $3,750 to $15,000
- 2,000 sq. ft.: $5,000 to $20,000
- 2,500 sq. ft.: $6,250 to $25,000
#3 Complexity of the Roof
As mentioned above, the steepness and design of your roof play a big role in replacement costs. Steeper roofs are harder to work on, requiring more time and safety equipment. Complex designs with multiple angles or levels also increase labor and material needs. A simple, low-slope roof will generally cost less to replace than a steep or intricate one.
#4 Removal of Existing Roofing Materials:
Stripping off your existing roof is a crucial step that your roofing contractor will add to the overall cost. The amount of layers, type of material, and how easy (or difficult) it is to remove all play a part. For some materials, such as asphalt shingles, the removal process is fairly easy. For other materials, it’s more difficult, such as with slate roofs. Either way, it requires time and expertise and is a necessary thing to do in the roof replacement process.
#5 Labor Costs in Western New York:
The cost of skilled roofing labor in our region is a significant part of your total bill. Prices can vary between contractors but remember that experienced professionals often deliver better quality work. While it might be tempting to go with the lowest bid, it’s important to balance cost with the assurance of a well-installed roof that will last.
#6 Time of Year (Peak vs. Off-Season):
In Western New York, most roof replacements happen from late spring to early fall when weather conditions are best. During this busy season, prices may be higher due to increased demand. If you’re flexible, scheduling your project in the off-season might save you some money. Just keep in mind that winter weather can cause delays and challenges for roofing work.
Other Considerations To Know About
Regional Considerations:
As a homeowner in Western New York, there are a few regional factors that can impact the cost of a roof replacement. The climate plays a big role in both the cost and timeline of roof replacements. Heavy snowfall and the potential for ice dams mean your new roof must be able to withstand significant weight and moisture. Features like ice and water shields may be necessary to protect against damage from freezing conditions.
Building Codes:
Speaking of building codes, the rules and regulations in Western New York can also influence roofing costs. Depending on your location, there may be specific guidelines around roof slope, ventilation, or fire resistance that add to the material and labor expenses.
Now’s The Time! Get A Roof Replacement Before Winter
If you’re a Western New York homeowner in need of a roof replacement, our roofing team can navigate the unique weather challenges of the area. At Buffalo’s Best Roofing Company, our expert roof replacement contractors have the local knowledge and experience to provide high-quality work at fair prices. Contact us today at (716) 276-3673 for a free consultation and estimate – we’re here to ensure your new roof is both durable and cost-effective.