Roof replacement is a significant financial undertaking during home renovations or construction projects. When determining the overall project expense, roofing materials form a substantial component. The factors affecting roofing material prices in 2025 include supply chain disruptions, the cost of labor, and the specific construction material used. Homeowners need to understand roofing material prices to make the ideal budget-aligned selection.
This guide provides information about roof material prices per square, usual roofing materials, and price-determining elements of 2025. The following table breaks down roofing alternative prices for better comparison.
Roofing material prices
A 100-square-foot roofing square would usually be priced anywhere from $2,000 to $16,500 in 2025, based on the roof material cost range of $80 to $800 per square. Roofing costs are based primarily on the type of material used and the quality level of that material. Building owners must pay $80 to $130 per square foot for affordable asphalt 3-tab shingles, which continue to be among the most popular products in the industry. Indicates that the starting price is between metal, slag, and tile compared to regular materials.
Roofing costs for shingle and metal roofs vary depending on roof size, as indicated below:
Roof size (square feet) |
Material cost for shingle roof |
Material cost for metal roof |
1,000 | $800 – $2,500 | $1,000 – $8,000 |
1,500 | $1,200 – $3,750 | $1,500 – $12,000 |
2,000 | $1,600- $5,000 | $2,000 – $16,000 |
2,500 | $2,000 – $6,250 | $2,500 – $20,000 |
3,000 | $2,400 – $7,500 | $3,000 – $24,000 |
3,500 | $2,800 – $8,750 | $3,500 – $28,000 |
Roofing materials cost breakdown
Factor |
Cost per Square Foot (100 SF) |
Old Roof Removal Cost | $100 – $300 |
Roofing Materials Cost | $100 – $250 |
Roofing Labor Cost | $200 – $350 |
Total Cost to Replace | $400 – $900 |
- Old Roof Removal: This will cover the demolition and removal of the current roofing material. This depends on the complexity of the removal process and whether there are layers to remove.
- Roofing Materials: Material prices will vary depending on your use (asphalt, metal, tile, etc.). Costly materials like slate or metal will be more expensive.
- Roofing Labor: Labor costs vary depending on your location and the complexity of the installation. More skilled contractors or complicated roofs can increase the price.
Average cost of roofing materials by type
Roofing material costs vary extensively based on the choice made by the homeowner. The cost per square foot for various roofing materials totals 100 square feet and will be outlined below to demonstrate average price ranges in 2025.
Roofing Material |
Cost per SF (100 SF) |
Lifespan |
Notes |
Asphalt Shingles | $80 – $130 | 15 – 30 years | The most affordable and widely used roofing material. |
Metal Roofing | $250 – $800 | 40 – 70 years | Durable, energy-efficient, and often used for modern homes. |
Wood Shingles & Shakes | $300 – $500 | 30 – 50 years | Provides a natural look but requires regular maintenance. |
Clay & Concrete Tiles | $600 – $1,200 | 50+ years | Heavy, long-lasting, and commonly used in Mediterranean-style homes. |
Slate Roofing | $900 – $2,000 | 75 – 100 years | This is a high-end option known for its beauty and very long lifespan. |
Rubber Roofing | $400 – $800 | 30 – 50 years | Affordable and energy-efficient, often used for flat roofs. |
Synthetic Roofing Materials | $400 – $900 | 30 – 50 years | Mimic traditional materials like slate or wood at a lower price. |
The price of roofing materials depends significantly on the type you use. Below is an overview of the average cost of roofing materials per type:
- Asphalt Shingles are usually the cheapest option, at $80 to $130 per square. Shingles are widespread because they are affordable and have a reasonable lifespan of 15–30 years.
- Metal Roofing: $250 to $800 per square foot. Metal roofing is long-lasting (40–70 years) and energy efficient, and, therefore, very popular with new homes.
- Wood Shingles & Shakes: $300 to $500 per square. Natural look; they last 30–50 years but are more maintenance-intensive than other options.
- Clay & Concrete Tiles: At $600 to $1,200 per square foot, clay and concrete tiles offer a long-lasting life (50+ years) and are commonly used for Mediterranean-themed homes, though they are heavier and costlier.
- Slate Roofing: Slate ranges from $900 to $2,000 per square foot. It is one of the longest-lasting materials, 75-100 years, but it comes with a high price tag.
- Synthetic Roofing Materials: Priced at $400 to $900 per square, synthetic options mimic high-end materials like slate and wood, offering a lower-cost alternative with similar durability (30-50 years).
These cost estimates help determine which material fits your budget and roofing needs.
Shingle roof material cost
- Asphalt 3-tab Shingles: The cheapest of all, these range from $80 to $130 per square. The cost for the material for each bundle ranges from $27 to $45, and each bundle covers about 33 square feet.
- Architectural Shingles: More costly than 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles are priced at $100 to $250 per square and $33 to $85 per bundle. They are heavier, more rugged, and have a high-end look.
- Composite Shingles: Composite shingles, which are constructed of materials such as fiberglass and asphalt, range from $300 to $700 for each square and between $75 and $140 for each bundle. Composite shingles attempt to replicate the look of slate or wood but at a lower price.
- Metal Shingles: Metal roofs are durable and energy-efficient. The material for metal shingles varies from $300 to $600 per square and $100 to $200 per bundle.
- Solar Shingles: A more recent, environmentally friendly alternative, solar shingles are considerably more costly, ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 per square and $330 to $850 per pack. Solar shingles also serve as solar panels, saving you money on energy bills.
Metal roof material prices
Metal roofing is a popular foundation choice because it shows exceptional durability and resistance to weather elements. The front charge for metal roofing exceeds that of other roofing materials, but the longevity of these roofs results in profit gains across time. The following table displays price information about metal roofing materials:
Material | Material Price per Square (100 SF) |
Aluminum Roof | $300 – $900 |
Copper Roof | $900 – $2,000 |
Galvalume Metal Roof | $100 – $450 |
Galvanized Steel Roof | $100 – $500 |
Metal Slate Roof | $300 – $500 |
Rusted (Corten) Roof | $300 – $500 |
Stainless Steel Roof | $550 – $1,300 |
Stone-Coated Steel Roof | $350 – $600 |
Tin (Terne) Roof | $300 – $1,100 |
Zinc Roof | $500 – $1,000 |
- Aluminum Roofs: The average cost is between $300 and $900 per square foot. They are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and appropriate for coastal locations where saltwater presents a problem.
- Copper Roof: This is the most costly choice, between $900 and $2,000 per square. It is extremely durable, lasts over 100 years, and its distinctive patina is a valuable aesthetic feature.
- Galvalume Metal Roof: An affordable option, costing $100 to $450 per square. Galvalume is coated steel with zinc and aluminum for maximum corrosion protection.
- Galvanized Steel Roof: Galvanized steel is long-lasting and provides superior rust and corrosion resistance. It costs $100 to $500 per square foot.
- Metal Slate Roof costs between $300 and $500 per square foot. The roof looks slate but keeps the lightness and strength of metal.
- Rusted (Corten) Roof: The roof is priced between $200 and $300 per square foot. Corten steel has a rusted look and produces a weather-resistant, visually appealing appearance.
- Stainless Steel Roofs: At $550 to $1,300 per square foot, stainless steel roofs are perhaps the most resilient and corrosion-resistant and provide a clean, contemporary appearance.
- Stone-Coated Steel Roof: From $350 to $600 per square, these roofs harness the strength of steel with a stone coating that has a more traditional appearance, typically replicating clay or concrete tiles.
- Tin (Terne) Roof: Tin roofs are robust and cost between $300 and $1,100 per square foot, depending on the thickness and quality of the metal used.
Tile roof material costs
Tiles provide homeowners with both longevity and handsome aesthetics and their resilience. Two principal varieties of tile roofing exist: clay tiles and concrete tiles with assorted style options and pricing levels. The total material expense for tile roofs consists of these elements:
Tile Roofing Type | Material Price per Square (100 SF) |
Clay Tile Roof | $400 – $1,000 |
Concrete Tile Roof | $300 – $900 |
Slate Tile Roof | $600 – $1,500 |
Synthetic Tile Roof | $200 – $600 |
- Clay Tile Roof: Clay tile prices vary from $400 to $1,000 per square. Clay tiles have a unique look and are very durable. They are commonly used in Mediterranean-type homes. With good maintenance, clay tiles can last over 100 years and are a long-term investment.
- Concrete Tile Roof: Usually costing between $300 and $900 per square, concrete tiles resemble clay tiles but are sometimes cheaper. Concrete is a durable material that, with proper maintenance, can last for 50 years or more.
- Slate Tile Roof: The most expensive tile roof option, slate tiles cost between $600 and $1,500 per square. Slate is incredibly long-lasting and can serve the house for over 100 years. Slate also provides an exclusive, highly desirable look for luxury homes.
- Synthetic Tile Roof: Synthetic tiles are a less expensive option, ranging from $200 to $600 per square. These tiles are created to resemble the appearance of clay or slate. Still, they are constructed from lighter materials such as polymer or rubber, providing a less expensive but long-lasting roofing solution.
Wood Shake Roof Material Prices
Wood shake roofing stands out because of its authentic wooden design, attracting homeowners who seek old-fashioned home aesthetics. Wood shake rooftops show their durability through their split cedar wood building material, adding attractive charm to your house. A wood shake roof needs constant upkeep for its extended durability. The expense structure for wood shake roof materials appears as follows:
Wood Shake Roofing Type | Material Price per Square (100 SF) |
Cedar Shake Roof | $400 – $900 |
Redwood Shake Roof | $600 – $1,200 |
Pressure-Treated Wood Shake Roof | $350 – $800 |
- Cedar Shake Roof: Prices usually are between $350 and $8000 to $900 per square. Cedar is the most prevalent material for wood shake roofing because it is so durable, has natural rot resistance, and a pleasing appearance. It also makes an excellent insulator.
- Redwood Shake Roof: Redwood shakes are higher priced, at between $600 and $1,200 per square. Redwood is renowned for its distinctive color, durability, and resistance to rot. Such wood roofing offers a premium appearance and longevity.
- Pressure-treated wood shake roofs are treated with chemicals to repel pests, rot, and water. They range from $350 to $800 per square foot. Pressure-treated shakes are more durable than untreated wood and a less expensive option than cedar and redwood.
Additional roof material costs & factors
This categorization provides a comprehensive overview of the factors affecting roofing decisions and cost. A summary of the main points follows:
- Roof Slope/Size/Accessibility: Roofs with a high slope (more than 6:12 pitch), more than one story, or intricate designs (more than one valley or dormer) will be more expensive because installation is more complex and takes longer.
- Structural Problems: Conditions such as dry rot, storm damage, or sagging can necessitate large repairs, such as replacing trusses or decking, which can cost substantially more.
- Repairs: Minor leaks in a roof cost $150 to $1,000 to repair. Nevertheless, repairs of structural issues can cost between $3,000 and $6,000 or more.
- Reroofing vs. Replacement: Although reroofing (laying new shingles over existing ones) will save on removal expense, it can reduce the roof’s life. Certain cities limit the number of layers to two.
- Geographic Location: Labor prices vary based on location, with roofing jobs in larger cities tending to be more costly due to greater demand and cost of living.
- Warranty: Most roofs have a warranty of 25-30 years. Luxury materials can even have a lifetime warranty, providing security but at an increased initial price.
- Off-Season Work: Off-season roof installation (winter through early spring) can save money but can experience weather hindrances in progress, prolonging the work.
- Permits: The cost of permits to do the roofing ranges from $70 to $500, and most contractors charge these separately.
- Inspections: A roof inspection may cost between $100 and $400. Inspectors verify structural problems that might need repairs or total replacement.
How to Save on Roofing Costs
Roofing can be an essential investment, but it’s possible to cut costs on:
- Select Low-Cost Materials: Rubber roofing or asphalt shingles are excellent low-cost alternatives.
- Shop Around for Contractors: Compare prices from different roofing contractors by getting several bids.
- Plan in Off-Peak Seasons: Roofing firms provide discounted rates during the off-season (winter or fall).
- Do Some Work Yourself: If you’re handy at projects yourself, you might save on labor by doing some preparation work yourself (such as removing the old roof).
What is the cheapest roofing material?
The least expensive roofing material is asphalt shingles, including 3-tab shingles, with prices ranging from $80 to $130 per square foot. They are the most popular choice because they are affordable and straightforward to install. Such roofing materials provide outstanding value to homeowners with limited budgets because their useful life is shorter than that of high-priced options.
Final Thoughts
The homeowner’s choice of roofing material directly affects the cost of the home’s roof. Various global factors caused the prices of asphalt shingles, metal, and slate roofing to rise in 2025. It is crucial to evaluate the total price against the material’s longevity and benefits. The initial investment cost of certain roofing materials creates savings over time because these materials prove durable while saving energy.
Ask a professional roofer to assist you with material selection. They will evaluate your house requirements and determine the best materials suitable for your regional climate. Reviewing your options enables you to select materials that meet your price constraints and maintain your home’s quality over time.
FAQS
Q1. How many bundles of roofing per square?
Generally, 3 bundles of shingles will cover one roofing square (100 square feet). The amount may differ depending on the brand and type of shingles.
Q2. How do you measure roofing materials?
To figure out roofing materials, first find the total square footage of your roof. Then, divide the total square footage by 100 to see the number of roofing squares and multiply by the material per square.
Q3. What is the least expensive roofing material per square foot?
The least expensive roofing material is asphalt shingles, which cost about $0.80 to $1.30 per square foot. Because of their low price and commonality, they are most often utilized.
Q4. How is a roofing square figured?
To figure a roofing square, calculate the total area of the roof in square feet and divide it by 100. For instance, if your roof is 2,000 square feet, it equals 20 squares.