Roofing companies charge per square in a range from $4 to $40 per square foot, depending on the material and location. A square is a roofing measurement equal to 100 square feet. For a 1,700 square foot roof, you can expect to pay between $6,800 and $68,000 for installation. The average roof replacement cost in the U.S. is $9,526, according to RubyHome (2025). Most homeowners pay somewhere in the middle, with costs varying based on material choice, roof complexity, and local labor rates. Understanding these pricing tiers helps you budget for your roofing project.
What Materials Cost the Most Per Square?
Premium materials like copper tiles and slate command the highest prices. According to RubyHome (2025), copper tiles cost $21.00 to $39.70 per square foot, while slate tiles run $12.00 to $22.00 per square foot.
Asphalt shingles are the budget option. Basic asphalt shingles cost just $4.25 to $4.95 per square foot, and architectural asphalt shingles run $4.50 to $8.25 per square foot. Metal roofing falls in the middle at $5.50 to $17.05 per square foot depending on the type.
| Material Type | Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Basic Asphalt Shingles | $4.25, $4.95 |
| Architectural Asphalt Shingles | $4.50, $8.25 |
| Corrugated Metal | $5.50, $11.50 |
| Standing Seam Metal | $10.00, $17.05 |
| Clay Tiles | $12.00, $24.75 |
| Slate Tiles | $12.00, $22.00 |
| Copper Tiles | $21.00, $39.70 |
Related articles:
- How Much Does Roofing Cost Per Square Foot
- How Much Is Roofing Per Square
- How Much to Charge Per Square for Roofing
- How Much to Charge for Roofing Per Square
- How Much to Install Roofing Per Square
- How Much for Roofing Per Square
- How Much Is Metal Roofing Per Square Foot
- How Much Is Tin Roofing Per Square Foot
- How Much Are Roofing Shingles Per Square
- How Much Per Square Foot for Metal Roofing
Does Material Choice Affect Long-term Value?
Yes. Cheaper materials require replacement sooner. According to RubyHome (2025), basic asphalt shingles last 20 years, while metal roofing lasts 40 to 80 years. Slate can last 60 to 150 years.
Investing in durable materials saves money over time. Although metal costs more upfront, you replace it less often. This is why some homeowners view metal as the smarter long-term choice, even if the per-square cost seems high initially.
What Other Costs Should You Know About?
Labor makes up a big part of your bill. Roofers earn a median wage of $50,970 per year, according to industry data. Removal of old roofing, flashing repairs, and underlayment also add to your total cost.
According to the National Association of Home Builders (2025), the average U.S. roof size is 2,647 square feet or 26.47 squares. This means a typical home’s roof replacement ranges from $10,600 to $106,000 before accounting for removal and repairs.
How Can You Save Money on Roofing?
Get quotes from multiple companies. Prices vary by region and contractor experience. According to RubyHome (2025), DIY can save about 50%, but mistakes cost more in the long run. Hiring licensed professionals protects your home and warranty.
Related articles:
- How Much Roofing Per Square
- How Much Is Tpo Roofing Per Square
- How Much Is Roofing Labor Per Square
- How Much Does Metal Roofing Cost Per Square
- How Much Is Roofing Material Per Square
- How Much Is Metal Roofing Per Square
- How Much Per Square for Roofing
- How Much Does Metal Roofing Cost Per Square Foot
- How Much Does a Roofing Company Make Per House
Contact a qualified professional roofer for expert guidance on roof repair, replacement, or installation.