Georgia Homeowners: Calculate the Cost of Your Roof Replacement

Looking to get a budget for a roof replacement for your home in the Chatham County area? 

Understanding what goes into calculating the cost of a roof can help you create a solid budget. Which can help you get the best roof for your money. It can also help you feel that you're making a better decision. But where do you even start?

Most of our clients came to us first asking for help with a budget for their upcoming roof replacement. Our team has over 30 years of experience. We understand homeowners in Savannah need a budget to be better prepared for a large and important investment like this one. Our family at RoofCrafters also knows that getting a budget number can be frustrating. So we've put together an easy-to-use free calculating tool to help you with your budget.

But first, we'll cover the three main factors that go into calculating the cost of your roof.

Since no one else in Savannah wants to talk about the elephant in the room. We promise, by the end, you'll have a better understanding of how we go about calculating the cost of your roof. And hopefully, you'll be better prepared for your upcoming roofing project in Savannah.

Let’s jump right into it!

Factors That Impact the Cost of a Roof Replacement in Savannah

Many factors can impact the cost of your roof replacement. Like the type of underlayment, the location of the job, and the time of year. Yet, in our 30 years of experience, we've found that there are three main factors needed to calculate the cost of a roof replacement:

• The type of materials
• The square footage of the roof
• The slope of the roof 

Let us review each of the 3 factors that'll impact the cost then we'll cover how to put them all together.

The Cost of the Roofing Materials You Want

The type of materials you choose for your roof replacement will have the biggest impact on the cost of the project. Some materials are more expensive than others, but those materials will offer greater durability or a longer lifespan.

Additionally, some materials need more labor or specialized skills and equipment to install. This will add to the cost of the project. Understanding the pros and cons of different roofing materials will help you choose the right roofing for your budget.

3-Tab Shingles: 

Pros:

• Affordable and widely available

• Lightweight and easy to install

• Suitable for most climates

• Low maintenance

Cons:

• Shorter lifespan than other materials (15-17 years)

• Less durable than other materials

• Less visually appealing than other materials

• less protection and may blow off in high-wind areas

Architectural Shingles: 

Pros:

• Better durability than 3-tab shingles

• More visually appealing than 3-tab shingles

• Longer lifespan than 3-tab shingles (18-24 years)

• Suitable for most climates

• Easy to install

• Higher wind protection

Cons:

• More expensive than 3-tab shingles

• Not as durable as a metal roof

• May not be suitable for extremely cold or hot climates

Upgraded Architectural Shingles: 

Pros:

• Longer lifespan than architectural shingles (25-30 years)

• More durable and resistant to damage

• More visually appealing than other shingle options

• Easy to install

• High wind protection

Cons:

• More expensive than other shingle options

• Not as durable as a metal roof

• May not be suitable for extremely cold or hot climates

Designer Shingles:

Pros:

• Most visually appealing shingle option

• Longer lifespan than other shingle options (25-30 years)

• More durable and resistant to damage

• Great wind warranty

Cons:

• Most expensive shingle option

• Not as durable as a metal roof

• May not be suitable for extremely cold or hot climates

Screw-Down Metal Roof:

Pros:

• Highly durable and resistant to damage

• Suitable for most climates

• Easy to install

• Energy-efficient

Cons:

• Not as visually appealing as other roofing materials (exposed screws)

• Maintenance is needed at around the 5-8 year mark

• Can be noisy during heavy rain or stormy weather

• Expansion and contraction can lead to screws leaking

Standing Seam Metal Roof:

Pros:

• Most durable and long-lasting roofing material (50+ years)

• Suitable for most climates

• Best wind protection

• Energy-efficient

• Low maintenance

• Boost home value (curb appeal)

Cons:

• More expensive roofing material than asphalt shingles

• Requires professional installation

• May not be suitable for some neighborhoods
  
  
• Can be noisy during heavy rain or stormy weather

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Now let's cover how to measure your roof's square footage

Measuring the Square Footage of Your Roof

Getting an accurate measurement of your home's roofing square footage is a critical part of calculating the cost of your roof replacement in Savannah. Here's how to get an accurate measurement:

1. Measure the length and width of each plane of the roof, including any dormers or other protrusions. 
2. Measure the length of each plane.
3. Multiply the length by the width of each plane to get the square footage of each section of the roof. 
4.  Add up the square footage of each plane to calculate the total square footage of the roof.

But, it's important to note that not all square footage measurements are equal. A roof with more angles (hips & valleys) will have more cuts and thus use more waste.

The waste factor refers to the number of excess materials that we'll order due to the cuts and waste that occur during the installation process. This can vary depending on the complexity of the roof, such as its slope and the number of valleys, hips, and ridges. The more waste, the more materials we need to complete the project. Which will result in a higher cost for the materials.

Most roofing companies in Chatham County will estimate the cost of a roof replacement based on the square footage of the roof. But keep in mind they’ll take into account other factors. Such as extra labor costs for roofs with greater slopes.

This brings us to our next topic, the slope or steepness of your roof.

Your Roof Slope Will Impact the Cost of Your New Roof 

The slope or complexity of a roof can impact the installation cost. A roof with a steeper pitch will take longer, It will require more safety. Which takes more labor. A complex roof design may also need extra installation steps, which can further increase the labor cost.

Besides the direct costs of materials and labor. There are more costs associated with complex steep-slope roofs. Sometimes we'll need scaffolding and safety equipment to ensure the safety of the workers. Nobody wants anyone getting hurt on their property! These extra costs are important to consider when calculating the total cost of the project.

Roofing companies in Savannah must account for the extra overhead costs when estimating the project's total cost. So, it's important to measure the roof and factor in the complexity when creating your roof budget. 

The Roof Calculation Process: Putting It All Together

Calculating the cost of your new roof can seem like an overwhelming task. But, by understanding the three main factors. The type of materials, square footage, and slope - you can estimate and create a solid budget for your upcoming project.

Here is a step-by-step guide to calculating the cost of your new roof:

1. Determine the square footage of your roof by measuring the length and width of each section and adding them together.
2. Determine the slope or complexity of your roof by visually inspecting it. (use the slope chart or pictures of other homes we provided)
3. Choose the type of materials you want for your new roof and estimate the cost per square foot based on your selection.
4. Multiply the square footage by the cost per square foot of your selected material.
   
   

To give you an idea of what to expect, let's take a look at two examples:

For a simple roof with asphalt shingles, the cost per square foot can range from $4 to $6 per square foot. With a square footage of 2,000, the total cost would be between $8,000 and $12,000.

For a simple roof installing standing seam metal, the cost per square foot can range from $12 to $19. With the same square footage of 2,000, the total cost would be between $24,000 and $38,000.

Calculate the Cost of Your Roof Replacement in Savannah 

Calculating the cost of a new roof in Savannah may seem like a lot. But by understanding the three main factors - materials, square footage, and slope - you can get a much better idea of what to expect. 

Follow the step-by-step guide outlined in this article. Use the example calculations provided. And you’ll easily be able to create a budget. Keep in mind this is a rough estimate for budgeting purposes. The exact cost of your new roof replacement may be slightly more or a little less. We recommend that you get 2 or 3 quotes from roofing companies in Savannah before making your final decision.

At RoofCrafters, we understand that a new roof is an important investment for you and your family. Our homes are our safe place. Where we all want to be for birthdays and holidays and when it's storming out. That's why we've created a pricing calculator that's free for you to use. Keep in mind this is not an actual estimate. We created it to help you get a better idea for your budgeting purposes. Hopefully, it will help you get better prepared. 

Are you dreading scheduling appointments with a salesperson for your roof replacement estimate? or maybe you're just not looking forward to rearranging your schedule for a face-to-face on-site inspection.

We understand that life can be hectic, and scheduling an in-person estimate can be time-consuming and inconvenient. Fortunately, technology has provided a solution to this problem. You can now get a virtual roof replacement estimate. You'll get an accurate quote without ever having a salesperson step foot on your property. Our family at RoofCrafters uses satellite imagery to get exact measurements of your home. We then provide you with an accurate estimate for your roof replacement. To begin your virtual estimate journey click 'Get My Virtual Estimate' below.