11 Feb Cost of a New Roof Replacement in Florida

“How much is a new roof in Florida?” is an important question for homeowners in the Sunshine State who are budgeting for home improvements. Various factors influence the cost of a new roof including roofing material choices, labor costs, and any unexpected issues that arise during installation.

The best way homeowners can protect their finances in the short and long term is to work with trusted and experienced roofing contractors. Industry professionals will help you make choices that align with your needs and budget and provide a sturdy roofing system that stands the test of time.

What Is the Average Roof Replacement Cost in Florida?

The average roof replacement cost in Florida is anywhere between $9,000 and $15,000. However, these figures don’t take into account the multiple factors that influence the cost of a full roof replacement.

These factors include the size and shape of your roof, the materials you choose, and the labor costs involved. Using premium products or working on larger roofs is likely to take the figure above the average cost.

Factors that Influence the Cost of Roof Replacement

Roofing costs are influenced by several factors, meaning that each roof will be priced differently. It’s important to shop around when considering a roof replacement as different contractors may recommend different solutions for your roof.

1. Material Costs

The materials you use on your roof will be a key factor that influences its final price. Ask your chosen contractor how the following materials will impact the durability and lifespan of your room, plus its aesthetics and price.

*Architectural shingles will typically set you back between 25-50% more than high-end shingles. However, they last longer and have more curb appeal than regular shingles.

**Clay tiles are a popular option for luxury homes in Florida and come at a higher price point than concrete tiles. Slate tiles are the most expensive and luxurious option.

Shingle vs Tile Roofs

The choice between shingles and concrete tiles is likely to impact the cost of a new roof significantly. Shingle roofs come in a wide variety of colors and styles, are easy to install, and are generally the most affordable option. However, they have shorter lifespans compared to tiles.

Tile roofing tends to be more expensive than asphalt shingles due to higher material costs and the specialized work needed to install them. However, many homeowners go for this option as they’re highly durable and long-lasting (tile roofs can last 20 to 40 years or more), offer excellent resistance to fire, wind, and hail, and enhance your home’s curb appeal.

Be aware that tiles are heavier than shingles and may require structural reinforcement of the roof deck. The installation of tile roofs can also be more complex and time-consuming than other roof types.

2. Cool Roofs and Energy Efficiency

A cool roof is a roofing system that is designed to reflect more sunlight than a standard roof. This means it absorbs less heat, making it a great option for hot and humid Florida.

Research into the impact of roofing systems on energy efficiency found that energy-efficient roof design reduces heat transfer, leading to a reduction in the need for air conditioning. According to one comparative study, climate-responsive roofs can reduce air conditioning expenditure by anything between 10 and 40%. This has important implications for Florida homeowners who could potentially make huge long-term savings with a more energy-efficient roofing system.

When considering the costs of a new roof, calculate the potential energy savings a cool roof could offer. It’s also a good idea to research considerations before installing solar panels if you are thinking of having solar panels installed on the new roof.

How Much Does a Cool Roof Cost?

The cost of a cool roof will depend on the cool roof system you choose. For example, covering your existing roof with a reflective coating to increase its solar reflectance will be cheaper than replacing your roof with specialized cool roof shingles like CertainTeed’s Landmark Solaris shingles. Ask a trusted contractor to explain your options if you’re interested in exploring cool roof technology further.

3. Your Chosen Roofing Contractor

Your choice of roofing contractor is crucial for a successful installation, long-term durability, and keeping the costs reasonable. Remember that choosing an expert Florida roofing contractor to install your roof will more than offset the costs of bringing subpar work up to standard over your roof’s lifetime, even if the initial investment is higher.

What to Look for in a Roofing Contractor

• Experience and reputation: An experienced contractor with years in the business and a great reputation in your community is a great place to start. Check out online reviews, ask for references, and review their past work to ensure your roof is in good hands.
• Licensing and insurance: Ensure the contractor is fully insured, licensed, and bonded to protect you, your home, and the workers in the event of an accident or damage caused during the roofing project.
• Knowledge and expertise: Your roofing contractor should have extensive knowledge about different roofing materials, installation techniques, and repairs. You can sound out their level of expertise by asking questions during an initial inspection.
• Communication: A reliable roofing contractor won’t keep you in the dark. Instead, they’ll communicate regularly throughout the project and keep you informed of progress, issues that arise, and potential delays.
• Competitive pricing: Get multiple quotes from different contractors and compare the prices and what they offer. Be wary of contractors who offer lowball quotes as this could indicate a lack of experience or the use of poor quality materials.
• Availability: Go with a contractor who can start your project within a reasonable timeframe. They should also offer you a detailed schedule for completion.

4. Roof Size and Complexity

The size of your roof naturally impacts its cost. Larger roofs require more roofing materials, such as shingles, underlayment, and flashing. This directly translates to higher material costs. Larger roofs also require more labor hours for installation, leading to increased labor costs.

Your roofing contractor will also factor in the complexity of your roof replacement when quoting their price. Roof complexities that impact price include:

• Roof pitch: Steeper roofs are more challenging and time-consuming to work on, requiring specialized equipment and safety measures, which increases labor costs.
• Multiple levels: Roofs with multiple levels, such as dormers or valleys, increase the complexity of the project. This requires more careful planning and execution, leading to increased labor time and the potential for unforeseen challenges.
• Penetrations: Chimneys, skylights, vents, and other roof penetrations require careful flashing and sealing, adding time and complexity to the installation process.
• Unusual shapes: Roofs with unique shapes or angles, such as curved roofs or those with multiple hips and valleys, require more intricate measurements and cutting, increasing both material and labor costs.

Align Your Roofing Choices With HOA Guidelines

Homeowners associations (HOAs) will have a significant say in the materials you use for your roof and its overall aesthetic. It’s crucial to review your HOA’s governing documents (CC&Rs – Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions) carefully before starting any roofing project. These documents will outline the specific rules and regulations regarding roofing materials and any required approval processes.

Your HOA will seek to maintain the visual appeal, architectural consistency, and property values within your community. Your choices must align with their strict guidelines regarding roofing materials to ensure a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing neighborhood.

Common restrictions include:

• Color: Many HOAs limit the color choices for roofing materials to a specific palette to maintain a consistent look.
• Material: Some HOAs may prohibit certain materials altogether, such as metal roofing or wood shingles, due to aesthetic concerns, fire safety regulations, or historic preservation requirements.
• Style: HOAs may have specific guidelines regarding the style of roofing, such as the type of shingles or the pitch of the roof.

Before beginning any roofing project, homeowners in an HOA typically need to submit a formal request for approval to the HOA board. The HOA board will review the proposed roofing materials and ensure they comply with the community’s guidelines.

Should You Repair or Replace Your Roof?

Determining whether to repair or replace your roof requires careful consideration. The following are signs it’s time to consider a roof replacement:

• Age of the roof: Most asphalt shingle roofs have a lifespan of 15 to 25 years. If your roof is nearing or has passed this age, replacement may be necessary.
• Extensive damage: Significant damage from storms, hail, or other factors may require a complete roof replacement.
• Widespread leaks: If multiple leaks are occurring, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire roof rather than attempting numerous repairs.
• Sagging roof: A sagging roof indicates potential structural issues and may require a complete replacement to address the underlying problems.
• Significant granule loss: If you notice a significant number of granules (the small stones embedded in asphalt shingles) in your gutters or surrounding your home, it could indicate significant wear and tear on your roof.

A new roof can significantly increase the value of your home. You may wish to consider replacing your roof if you’re thinking of selling your home in the coming months or years to increase its resale value.

When repairs might be sufficient:

• Minor leaks: Small leaks from localized areas like flashing around chimneys or skylights can often be repaired effectively.
• Isolated damage: If only a few shingles are damaged or missing, repairs may be a viable option.
• Age of the roof: If your roof is relatively new and well-maintained, minor repairs will likely be sufficient to extend its lifespan.

Look for the Best Price-Quality Ratio

Installing a new roof in Florida is a significant investment that requires extensive research and consideration to get right. Your choice of materials and roofing contractor plus several other factors have a considerable impact on the average cost of a new roof.

Homeowners will naturally wish to keep prices low while ensuring a professionally installed and long-lasting roof. An experienced and reliable roofing contractor will take you through your choices and recommend roof replacement options with an excellent price-quality ratio.