The cost of a roof replacement is one of those topics that tends to have one irritating answer: "It depends." While that's true, homeowners need a range that they can reference. Do you know how much to budget for a new roof? Are you prepared for hidden fees or financing options that could change your final cost?
It's a small wonder that the idea of replacing a roof is so stressful. Roof replacement quotes can vary from $12,000 to $44,000 or more, leaving homeowners to compare quotes and ask Reddit, "Does this quote sound too high for my roof?"
Over the years, Equity Roofing has helped hundreds of homeowners across Central PA break down the cost of a new roof. As a 5-star company and Platinum Preferred Contractor with Owens Corning, we’ve seen it all. We know the hidden costs, the price drivers, and the industry standards, and we're sharing them all with you.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear budget range and know exactly what questions to ask your contractor. You’ll know how to avoid hidden fees and what a fair quote looks like.
We'll dive into the following topics:
These are real numbers to help you make informed decisions. Use this guide to set a realistic budget and recognize when a contractor's quote is in the right ballpark.
For homeowners in Central PA, roof replacement costs can range from $14,000 to $44,000 for a shingle roof, while metal roofs can run between $10,000 to $50,000+. Metal roof options include standing seam or exposed fastener metal roofs.
While standing seam offers unmatched longevity and aesthetics, modern exposed fastener systems can deliver many of the same benefits at a much lower cost, especially when using PRO-Z fasteners and pro-appearance panels.
| Home Size & Style per sq ft. |
Shingle $4.8–$8.2 per sq ft. |
Standing Seam Metal $8.6–$15.9 per sq ft. |
Exposed Fastener Metal (with PRO-Z) $3.5–$5.9 per sq ft. |
| Small ranch home (2,200–2,900 sq ft) |
$14,000–$18,000 | $25,000–$35,000 | $10,000–$13,000 |
| Medium Cape Cod home (2,500–3,300 sq ft) |
$16,000–$20,000 | $35,000–$45,000 | $15,000–$18,000 |
| Large complex home (3,600–5,500 sq ft) |
$22,000–$44,000 | $50,000+ | $20,000+ |
For reference, Equity Roofing's roof replacement projects typically range from $12,000 to $35,000. The average cost of a roof replacement job is typically around $16,500.
Materials and labor typically account for 60% of roof replacement costs. Understanding these two major cost drivers is essential when evaluating quotes.
Metal roofing can cost 50% to 70% more than shingle roofing in material cost, though various factors can offset this difference.
Roofing material is available in four tiers of quality: builder’s grade, standard, premium, and designer.
| Builders Grade Shingles | Standard Shingles | Premium Shingles | Designer Shingles |
|
Pros |
Pros • Low cost & dependable • Wide color selection • 25-30 year warranties |
Pros • More durable options • Improved weather resistance • Wide aesthetic options • 30-50 year warranties |
Pros • High-end aesthetics • Max. durability & efficiency • 50 years to lifetime warranties |
| Cons • Shorter lifespan (15-20 years) • Limited colors & styles • Lower durability |
Cons • Limited style options • Moderate weather resistance |
Cons • Higher upfront cost |
Cons • Highest cost • May require additional structural support |
| Best for: Budget-conscious projects | Best for: Average homeowners | Best for: Long-term homeowners | Best for: Upscale or custom homes |
| Builders Grade Metal | Standard Metal | Premium Metal | Designer Metal |
|
Pros |
Pros • Thicker metal (26-28 gauge) • Better coatings • Moderate pricing • 25-40 lifespan |
Pros • Thicker metal (26-24 gauge) • High-performance coatings • Concealed fasteners • 40-50+ year lifespan |
Pros • Thickest metal (22-24 gauge) • Top-tier coatings • Top weather & impact resistance • 50+ year lifespan |
| Cons • Thinner metal (often 29+ gauge) • 15-25 year lifespan • Basic coatings • Prone to rust |
Cons • Moderate weather resistance |
Cons • Higher upfront cost |
Cons • Highest cost • May require structural reinforcement |
| Best for: Budget projects, sheds, or temporary buildings | Best for: Average homeowners or commercial buildings | Best for: Long-term homeowners | Best for: Upscale, custom homes, or historic homes |
The best material for your roof will depend on your specific needs, budget, and personal preferences.
Size is the second most important factor affecting roof replacement costs. Most homeowners are unaware that the square footage of a roof differs significantly from that of a house. This is due to factors such as roof pitch, overhangs, dormers, and other architectural features. For example:
| Home Floor Plan | Approx. Roof Area (low slope) | Approx. Roof Area (steep slope) |
| 1,700 sq ft | 2,000–2,200 sq ft | 2,400–2,600 sq ft |
Since roofing contractors calculate costs based on the actual roof surface area, not your home's floor plan, this difference can substantially impact your final bill. The steeper your roof or the more complex its design, the greater the gap between your home's square footage and the roof area you'll pay to replace.
Next, we'll discuss how a roof complexity plays a role in how expensive your roof repair may be.
Roof complexity significantly impacts cost. Multiple valleys, hips, angles, and architectural features require additional labor and materials.
Simple roof examples for the northern region include: Basic Ranch-style homes, Cape Cod, Shot Gun, and Modern Colonial designs.
Complex roof examples for the northern region include: Victorian, Tudor revival, McMansion, French Country, Mediterranean, Traditional Colonial, Modern Craftsman, and Contemporary designs.
Beyond materials, roof size, and roof design, these subtle details can make roof replacements more expensive to install.
Roof add-ons (like chimneys or skylights) are yet another increase for your new roof's price tag.
Any additional features your roof may have will make replacing it more complex. This may increase your cost of material, labor, or both.
While chimneys and skylights may make your home cozy, they can also make your roof replacement more expensive.
| Roof Feature | Average Cost | Why It Raises the Quote |
| Chimney | $300–$1,000+ | Requires labor-intensive flashing |
| Skylight | $800–$2,500+ | High material cost, specialized installation labor |
The price range is dependent on the number of chimneys or skylights present. Custom skylights also tend to lean toward the higher price range.
It’s important to note that your roof is made up of a system of components. This set of materials and parts goes beyond just shingles or metal panels.
A roofing system includes:
Together, these layers make sure your roof lasts as long as possible. The level of quality you choose for each part of your roofing system will have a significant impact on the total cost of your roof replacement. Our article, “How Your Roof Really Works: Roofing Systems 101,” provides a more detailed overview.
Undisclosed structural issues, contractor fees, and overlay costs can all pop up as unexpected, or "hidden" costs of a roof after your agreement has already been signed.
Now that you understand the factors that go into a roof's cost, we'll discuss getting an accurate quote for your new roof.
To receive a precise roof replacement quote, give contractors detailed information: home size/style, roof age and condition, site access issues, and preferred materials.
Ask key questions: What’s included in the base price? How do you handle surprises? Are permits and warranty registration included?
Watch out for red flags, including: extremely low bids, high-pressure sales tactics, vague contracts, or no on-site inspection.
Roof replacement is an expensive project, but it's a necessary one. Financing options are a great way to avoid large upfront costs.
Frequently Asked Questions for Roof Replacement Costs
Below are the most common questions we've received about roof replacement, all gathered in one place.
How to Find Roofing Contractors for Central PA
With a strong understanding of roof replacement cost, you’re no longer facing a sea of unknowns. You’re ready to find a contractor and get your project started! If this seems overwhelming, don't worry; we can help guide you through the process. Review our 2025 top roofers list for Central PA, all rated by our Golden Standard.
Equity Roofing has worked with thousands of homeowners across Central Pennsylvania. We’ve earned clients' trust through our commitment to exceptional service and transparent pricing. And of course, the best roofs!
We’re ready to help. Contact a member of our team to schedule a free estimate!