A roof replacement will run you from $5,727 to 12,418 and up. The national average is around $9,000, with Idaho being pretty on par. Of course, this depends on many factors.
A roof replacement can be a large home investment to take on. If you plan on owning your forever home or are unfortunate to buy a home with an older roof, you will need to get this done at some point in time — probably sooner rather than later. Idaho weather conditions are too variable from heavy snowfall to scorching hot summers to not have a durable roof that can protect you and your home from the elements. Being an inevitable project that can be hard on your wallet, it’s crucial to understand what you are getting into.
A roof replacement is much more than some new shingles and roofing nails, it involves removing the existing materials and structural elements and replacing them for long-term durability. There are many factors that will go into the cost of replacing a roof, and in Idaho this can include climate considerations, availability of materials, and cost of labor.
A roof replacement is nothing to fly by the seat of your pants about. Homeowners will need to do their research to make sure they can handle the cost that goes into this significant project.
What is a Roof Replacement?
A roof replacement is extensive. It involves ripping up the existing material, down to or including the decking, making repairs if necessary to the rafters, joists, and trusses, and replacing all of that with a brand new roofing system. To ensure longevity, your roofing professionals should address all issues that are evident and that may arise according to your home and Idaho’s weather.
A roof replacement process will go similar to as follows:
- Inspection: Evaluating your roof’s current condition.
- Planning: Considering what materials will be used, scheduling, and requirements such as Idaho and city codes, laws, and regulations.
- Preparation: Sheltering the surrounding areas and installing safety equipment.
- Removal: Peeling back and disposing of the old roofing material down to the decking.
- Repairs: Repairs or replacements will be done to any decking that can be saved and any structural elements.
- Installation: Application of underlayment, flashing, shingles, and additional roofing materials.
- Clean-Up: Removal of old material and any debris.
- Final Inspection: A final quality assurance check.
It’s important to note that a replacement is different from a repair. A repair will fix sectional, smaller issues such as damaged shingles or a leak and is done when the roof is new enough to not have to consider a re roof. A replacement will be an option if you roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, there is widespread damage, you have done multiple repairs already, or if you want to upgrade your roof — particularly to an eco-friendly selection.
Cost Factors of A Roof Replacement
We listed a baseline range in the beginning of this post, however if you are budgeting in anticipation for a roof replacement you will need to take several things into consideration to get a good calculation on your specific needs.
1. Materials: Asphalt shingles are a standard for roofing materials, however you will be paying more for durable materials such as metal, tile, and slate.
2. Size: Roof replacements are largely priced by square foot. Naturally, the more roof you have to replace, the more it will cost. Additionally, steep pitches and difficulties to work on will be priced higher as well.
3. Existing Roof Removal and Repairs: Extensive removals and repair to the structural integrity of the existing roof will take time and labor.
4. Labor Costs: Depending on the company you choose, location, and contractor experience, you will be paying differently. It’s always a good idea to schedule a free consultation beforehand.
Other factors that can have you paying more include:
- Time of year/climate considerations;
- Permit and inspection fees;
- Energy-efficient options;
- Warranties;
- Unexpected delays.
It may be hard to pin down an exact number, but an experienced local roofing company can help you determine an exact price.
Tips for Managing Roof Replacement Costs in Idaho
There are several measures you can take to ensure you are getting a fair deal and to make things easier on your pocketbook:
1. Get multiple quotes: Estimates from different licensed contractors can give you an idea of an average. Just make sure to be wary of unusually low bids, as this can indicate poor workmanship or a bait and switch to a higher price later on.
2. The timing of your roof replacement: As stated above, climate consideration and unexpected delays can hike up the price of your project.
3. Choosing materials: Balance durability with labor and availability of materials. Sometimes you may get tax incentives for being energy-efficient as well.
4. Insurance coverage: Make sure you talk it over with your insurance company and thoroughly read your policy to see what kind of assistance you can get here and understand your warranty. You may also look into other financing options.
It is important to always remember to uphold the integrity of your new roof and be prepared for the unexpected going forward to minimize the damage that may be done.
In general, a roof replacement will come down to the square footage of your roof, materials used, the company you choose, and lesser factors. Make sure you choose an award-winning roofing company that provides a wide range of services so you know they can tackle anything thrown at them.
Remember that an average is just a starting point. Your roof is unique and will be priced as such. You’ll have to put in careful consideration on several elements of a roof replacement to really feel comfortable with a price.
