When it comes to a new roof, most people will ask the classic question first: How do I figure out how much a roofing labor cost per square will be?
They scour the internet looking for their answer, watching YouTube videos, and reading blog posts in their pursuit of the answer to the somewhat mysterious question of roofing labor costs. Well, scour no more. Today, here at Legacy Roofing of Idaho, we will help you figure out how much roofing labor costs per square and how to go about replacing your home’s roof!
Roofing Labor Costs (Per Square)
There is no such thing as a DIY roof. Some might try it, but they quickly learn that is is way harder and not worth the effort, price, nor high chance of messing something up (not to mention the safety concerns). However, it’s because of this most people have to get their roofs replaced by a professional roofing company.
With such a big project, roofing prices can vary (we have an entire roofing price guide here) which means most homeowners don’t know what a good price is. From materials to labor, roofing costs can grow quickly depending on the scope of the project.
In that event, it’s important to understand the average prices of roofing labor. And before we start, a solid foundation is a must. AKA, you need to know what a roofing square is!
What is a “Roofing Square?”
In roofing terms, a square refers to 100 square feet of shingle. Roof surfaces are measured by 100 square feet, hence the name square, and the price is based on the amount of square. So for example, a house that needs 1,000 square feet of shingles, or “10 Square” would be priced on 10 square.
This typically leads to the next logical question, what are the labor costs per square?
Roofing Labor Cost Per Square
According to a 2021 Home Advisor article, the average roofing labor cost per square is somewhere between $150 and $300. This does not include the price of shingles, which typically drives the total roof replacement cost per square north of $350 all the way to $850 depending on the single type.
Roofing contractors will often quote you based on the total price of both singles and the labor included to replace them. Hypothetically speaking, a 20 square roof at $450 per square would cost $9,000 installed.
Roofing Labor Includes:
- Tearing off old shingles
- Laying undergarment and ice shields
- Installing new shingles
Other Roofing Costs
In this article we break down the total costs to tear down and replace your roof.
Also, in addition to the labor costs, the additional roofing costs that you want to always factor in are things like the ridge vent, flashing, pipe collars, and the occasional decking replacement. Existing shingle tear-off is part of the deal when you get a new roof, and the only time it is is not included is when there is more than one layer of existing shingles (old methods thought putting a new roof on top of an old roof was the way to go).
Roofing costs can vary and extras that are required – such as the ridge vent – typically are priced per linear foot. Extras to always consider include:
- Roof Decking
- Flashing
- Ridge Vents
- Pipe Collars
- Skylights
- See this complete list here of roofing extras.
Your Options
When it comes to replacing your roof, there are several options:
- You can pick your shingles
- Pick a contractor
- Get the work done
That said, when you factor all the options, it is best to start with asking below!
DIY Roof Replacement (& Why You Shouldn’t Do It)