To get rid of roofing shingles, you need to hire a pro roofer or do it yourself with the right tools and safety gear. Most homeowners call a contractor because old shingles are heavy and the work is risky. According to RubyHome, the average roof replacement cost is $9,526, but removing shingles alone is just the first step. You can save money by doing it yourself, but professionals know how to do it safely and fast. Let’s look at your best options.
Why Remove Old Shingles?
Old shingles fail for many reasons. According to industry data, 33% of homeowners replace their roofs due to leaking, and another 33% deal with storm damage. Shingles crack, curl, or get holes. When this happens, water leaks into your home and causes damage.
Your roof may last 20 to 30 years depending on the material. Asphalt shingles usually last about 20 years, while architectural shingles can last 30 years. If your roof is older than these lifespans, it’s time to remove the old shingles.
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Hire a Professional Roofer
The safest way to get rid of old shingles is to hire a roofer. Professional roofers have the right equipment and safety training. They remove old shingles, check the deck below, and install new ones.
Roof installation typically costs $4 to $40 per square foot, according to RubyHome. For a 1,700 square foot roof, you may pay $6,800 to $68,000 total. The cost depends on your roof size and the new material you pick. According to IBISWorld, the U.S. roofing contractor market size reached $81.3 billion in 2025, showing just how common this work is.
Diy Shingle Removal
If you want to save money, you can remove shingles yourself. You’ll need a pry bar, hammer, ladder, safety harness, and gloves. Start at the top of the roof and work your way down. Pry up the nails and pull off each shingle.
DIY removal can save about 50% of the cost, but mistakes can lead to higher costs later, according to RubyHome. Falls from ladders are a big risk. According to OSHA, over 50% of all construction fall deaths involve roofers. Be careful and use safety gear.
Best Shingle Material Options
After you remove old shingles, you need to pick new ones. Here are your choices:
- Basic asphalt shingles cost $4.25 to $4.95 per square foot
- Architectural asphalt shingles cost $4.50 to $8.25 per square foot
- Metal roofing costs $10 to $17.05 per square foot
- Cedar shingles cost $8 to $14.30 per square foot
Asphalt shingles remain the most popular choice for U.S. homes. According to RoofLink, asphalt shingles dominate roughly 73% of U.S. residential roofing. They are cheap and easy to install. Metal roofing holds 17% of the market and lasts much longer.
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Work with a professional roofing company to protect your property with quality roofing solutions.