How Much Does a Roof Cost?
How much will my new pitched roof cost? This is a question that comes up more often than you would think.
So how much does a roof cost? The general perception is that all roofs are generally the same so the obvious conclusion is that the cost for a replacement must be about the same for all of them hence the often heard “all I need is the lowest quote”.
But that is not the case.
First let’s consider the different aspects of a pitched roof design that would affect the costs for replacement.
Valleys – some roof designs incorporate a valley or multiple valleys where the different angles of the roof come together. Not all roofs have valleys it just depends on the design. Roof valleys are usually lined with lead (although alternative materials are available). Lead is very resilient, and malleable (flexible) it can also be welded at relatively low temperatures at joints. It is a material that has been used for hundreds of years in roof construction because of these properties. Valleys also require each individual tile to be cut to the appropriate shape.
Hips – where sloped edges of roofs come together are called hips. Not all roofs have hips because some roofs are just two sides joined at the tops hence no ‘hips’. Hips require additional specific hip tiles and a specific method of fixing which adds to the cost. As with valleys hips require each tile to be cut to fit the profile of the hip. Some more elaborate hip styles include ‘laced hips’ where a specific type of hip tile is used and mortared into place for a more traditional finish.
Ridges – depending upon the design the length of the roof ridge differs. Ridges also require specific methods of fixing depending upon the roof design.
Parapets – You may have noticed that on some roof designs you can not see the edges of the roof this is especially noticeable on older terraced properties in cities. What you can see is what looks like the wall goes higher than the roof. This is a parapet. Parapets are a sort of valley and again lined with lead but usually a larger area than a valley and usually requiring welding and chasing (cutting into) the brickwork to ensure a watertight installation.
Soakers and flashings – Again depending on the style of the roof different types and lengths of flashing and their corresponding soakers (where the flashing meets the roof covering) are required. Soakers and flashing join the roof covering to any abutments such as a chimney or an extended party wall.
Now having discussed a few types of roofing details and how they differ across different styles of roof design you can see how there are many different types of materials, different types of skill required and different times for the work to be completed. We haven’t even begun to talk about different types of roof coverings from slates to concrete tiles to flat roof details and the differing costs of the differing areas required.
Capability of the contractor- Now let’s consider who will complete your work. The roofing industry can be said to be a competitive industry. A multitude of suppliers quoting to win work. As we have discussed the lowest price isn’t always the best. At TRG The Roof Group we are members of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC). The NFRC assesses our capability and competency as roofers. When choosing a roofer make sure you check their member credentials by logging on to the NFRC website. Remember many companies say they are members when they are not!
Finally
As all of these considerations and many more go toward the actual cost of an individual roof. I hope you can now see why the question of ‘how much does a roof cost’ is never a fixed number!
Because you cannot change the fundamental design of your roof we believe there are much more important questions to ask if considering a roof replacement which may last over 50 years.
These questions should include;
- Will the work be completed to a quality standard?
- How do I want the finished roof to look, and what covering will I choose?
- What guarantee of quality will I get?
- Is the company I choose a reputable company with many examples of previous work?
I’ll add an article on things to consider when choosing a flat roof at a later date.
To help you with your choice contact TRG – The Roof Group and we will talk you through all of your options!