Roof pricing is measured in squares (1 square = 100 sq ft). A standard 25-square residential re-roof runs $8,000–$18,000 depending on pitch, material, and region. Use this calculator to build a line-by-line quote covering materials, tear-off, labor, dump fees, and your target margin before you ever get on the ladder.
3-tab asphalt shingles: $80–$120/square materials. Architectural (dimensional) shingles: $110–$160/square — the most common residential choice. Standing-seam metal: $300–$600/square. Tile (concrete or clay): $350–$700/square. Always add 10–15% waste factor for standard pitches; up to 25% for complex hip-and-valley roofs.
Roofing labor runs $60–$120/square for tear-off and install combined in most US markets. A crew of 3 can typically complete 15–20 squares per day on a straightforward re-roof. Add separate line items for ridge vent installation ($3–$5/linear ft), drip edge ($2–$3/linear ft), and step flashing at walls and chimneys ($8–$15/linear ft).
Tear-off of one layer of shingles: $30–$60/square. Multiple layers increase cost significantly — each additional layer adds 30–50% to tear-off time. Decking repair (replace rotted plywood): $80–$120 per sheet installed. Dumpster rental or haul-away runs $300–$600 per job. Never bury these costs in your labor rate — list them as visible line items.
Roofing carries high workers' comp premiums — typically 20–40% of labor payroll depending on state. Include your full overhead burden in the labor rate you enter, not just the base wage. Most roofing contractors target 25–35% gross margin on residential work. Commercial work often carries tighter margins but higher volume.