There is something oddly romantic about the idea of a home and the “roof over your head” concept. Your home is not only a structure but also a state of mind – a building with a soul. It has a sentimental value where memories are crafted spontaneously but with a satisfying precision, where the distinct aromas are everpresent and remembered for years to come. No wonder why we want that symbol to persevere and withstand any potential damage, such as environmental and weather conditions that can severely impact the well-being of your house, including your roof. Whether you need minor fixes or a complete roof replacement, roof construction is a major undertaking. And it is also one of the most expensive home renovation projects.
So, how much does it cost to replace a roof in Chicago and Chicagoland areas? Let us explore this question with you.
The Average Cost of Roof Replacement
While we would love to give you an accurate appraisal on how much you will pay for your roof renovation without coming in for an in-person estimate, each roof is different, and there is a wide range of factors that constitute a price.
An average homeowner is expected to pay approximately $12,000 to $15,000 for their roof replacement. However, the price range is highly competitive and varied, from as little as around $5,000 all the way to roofs costing a shocking $45,000 and above.
Roof Replacement Cost in Chicago
While the prices can top the high numbers in the Chicagoland area depending on, for instance, square footage, expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 on average. A residential roofing job charges between $3.50 and $5.00 per square foot in Chicago and surrounding areas.
Asphalt Shingle Roof Price Rate
The most affordable as of today and possibly the most common roof system consists of asphalt shingles. A one-story home with a basic roof cover might require an average of $4.00 per square foot, along with other roof elements, architectural shingles, and underlayment.
Roofing contractors charge an average of $5.90 for a two-story home with basic or semi-basic roof covering and decent accessibility and around $8.50 per square foot for a two-story home with a more complex and steep roof system that is not as accessible.
Metal Shingle Roof Cost
While metal shingles, or metal roofs, do not sound incredibly innovative or attractive, you might be surprised how high-end, aesthetically pleasing, and durable these systems are. That’s because metal roofing can imitate virtually any material or style, and it can withstand various weather conditions. The metal roof looks very chic and European, making it an enticing choice for homeowners.
Metal shingles are a bit more expensive per square foot than traditional asphalt shingles. An average homeowner can expect to pay anywhere between $10.50 and $18.50 per square foot.
Cedar Shake Roof Cost
The most desirable and presentable roof system is also one of the priciest – the cedar shake shingles. Cedar is a natural and very durable wood, which is why many homeowners prefer the material to other alternatives, not only for its unique appearance but also due to it being lightweight and sturdy.
This high-end premium roof system also has a premium cost – especially now when the world experiences shortages of materials and ever-increasing prices in the construction industry. The cedar shake roof’s cost is anywhere from $25 to $30 per square foot, which is a major difference from asphalt or metal shingles.
The Cost of Slate Roof
Another premium roofing material, slate shingles, is considered one of the most dazzling and resilient roof systems available on the market. The price range for a slate roof can range from $15 to $30 and up per square foot.
Factors that Influence the Cost of Roof Replacement in Chicago
Roof replacement in Chicago is considered one of the most cost-intensive home renovation projects, but when executed correctly by a reputable roofing company, it can be a long-lasting solution that adds value to your home and provides comfort and aesthetics for years to come. With that in mind, multiple factors influence the cost of roof replacement in Chicago, and here are a few:
The Size of Your Roof
Because the cost estimate of roof replacement is based on square footage by a majority of roofing professionals, the size of your roof is an important factor in determining the budget.
Accessibility – Slope or Pitch
Believe it or not but certain roofs are not walkable. In fact, a roof as steep as 6:12 pitch or more is a safety concern and requires much more preparation before beginning labor. A roof replacement does constitute not only shingles but also the underlayment system, and its type is dictated by the roof pitch.
The Type of Roof
As noted earlier, the type of your roof is a major player in determining the overall cost of the construction. The durability and accessibility of shingles will drive the cost of not only the material but also the labor required to complete the job. While we listed the most common roofing systems, these types can be divided into subtypes that also vary when it comes to cost.
The Extras
A roof replacement in Chicago can benefit from certain add-ons that will perfect the work and make the system much more resilient considering the Midwestern conditions. A few extra finishes can extend the life of your new roof significantly, such as specialized coatings. These can also benefit your wallet and health as certain solutions save energy and are water and UV resistant. If you have the budget and are willing to invest further, you can opt for sustainability by installing solar or green roofs.
Roof Replacement in Chicago and Surrounding Areas
Don’t let another season go by without a roof inspection and replacement. Mr. Roof is a family-owned, reputable company serving Chicagoland areas with passion and a much needed now more than ever dedication. Call us today so you can sleep better knowing you have a beautiful and well-functioning roof over your head.