How Much Does Slate Roof Installation Cost?
Can you imagine living in a home with no roof? A roof over our head is essentially what makes us modern human beings. One of the smartest investments you can make as a modern homeowner in today's housing market is a slate roof installation.
Did you know a roof can add as much as 71% return on investment? This is according to Remodel magazine's annual survey. Slate roofs will add value to any home, provided the roof has been done professionally and installed correctly. In this process, you can actually lower your insurance premiums.
But, as with any project, it's always best to focus on the costs at hand, and by comparing quotes from specialists in your area before you go ahead, you can get a better idea of any work that needs to be done as well as current pricing trends in your region.
Factors That Affect The Cost To Install a Slate Roof
Several factors will influence the actual cost to install a slate roof, consider the following:
- the price of materials
- removal of existing roof materials
- additional materials needed for the beginning and end of the roof
- removal of any waste materials
- labor needed for installation
- size and complexity of the project
- roof type, pitch, and angle
- tile pattern
- regional location
- current pricing trends
When you receive a professional estimate, your contractor can identify any underlying issues with your slate roof installation project that can add to your bottom line. Be sure to keep clear and direct communication with your contractor during the entire project so that you can remain within your budget.
How Much Will It Cost To Install a Slate Roof?
You can expect your cost to install a slate roof to range anywhere from $17,000 up to as much as $84,000 for a 1,700-2,100 square foot roof. Should you have a 3,000 sq ft roof, the cost may even be in the region of about $120,000 for a project.
National averages indicate, however, that most American homeowners spend around $42,000 on their slate roof installation. Your actual cost can vary depending on a variety of factors, so it's important to get in touch with local experts to compare estimates and get some professional advice.
It is important to discuss in detail with your contractor any issues or concerns you may have before your slate roof installation begins. You should have a clear understanding of what costs are included in your contractor's estimate before you commit to, or begin a project. It is also highly recommended that you get more than one professional estimate for your cost to install a slate roof so that you can get a general idea of the current pricing trends in your area.
Slate Roof Installation Cost Breakdown
When it comes down to the basics, the cost to install a slate roof should be in the region of about $9 - $10 per sq ft. But it can be up to as much as $30 - $40 per sq ft for more complex designs, the type or grade of slate used, installation patterns, building height, roof slope, and roof design.
A quality slate roof installation is almost indestructible and can in some cases last up to 100 years with reasonable maintenance.
A more economical option is a synthetic slate roof. Molded from recycled plastic and rubber, they look very similar to natural slate, and can last up to 50 years or more. They are also easier to install compared to natural slate as they weigh less and are less prone to damage in transit and during construction. Synthetic slate roof installation costs around $7 - $9 per sq ft. To cover an average 1,800 sq ft roof it would cost anywhere between $12,600 - $16,200.
Other Slate Roof Installation Costs To Consider
Many times, homeowners are caught by surprise with additional repair costs when installing or replacing their home's roof. During your slate roof installation, it is important to consider the surrounding areas of your roof that may need repair. These areas can include:
- Soffit vents - $2 - $4 each
- Fascia boards - $1.50 - $2 per linear ft
- Gutters - $3 - $9 per linear ft
- Metal flashing - $5 per sq ft
- Roofing cement - $22 per gallon
- Roofing felt - $18 per roll
- Roof sealant - $850 - $1,000 (standard roof)
Removing and disposing of the old roof usually costs $3 - $5 per sq ft, but can go higher depending on the type of roofing materials, difficulty of removal, and your location. Your roof could also have some wood rot or damage. A contractor is required to remove and dispose of any materials before installation commences. Removing 1,800 sq ft of roofing could cost as much as $5,400 - $9,000.
Additionally, if your roof is in need of some reinforcement to handle the extra weight of a slate roof installation, you can expect your cost to increase dramatically. Expect to spend anywhere between $1,000 - $10,000 over and above your overall cost to install a slate roof should you need to reinforce it with rafters or trusses.
We recommend you learn how contractors calculate your slate roof installation cost in your local area. By comparing estimates from multiple contractors you can get a better idea of the work that needs to be done on your roof as well as choose the best rate and contractor to suit your remodeling needs.
Find Local Pros For a Free Slate Roof Installation Estimate
By simply entering your home zip code in the space provided, you can find local professionals in your area that specialize in this slate roof installation. You will also be taking advantage of an absolutely FREE professional estimate to get a more accurate breakdown of the cost to install a slate roof on your property. There's no obligation to hire or sign any contracts, and there are no hidden costs whatsoever. Simply enter your zip code and get connected with local professionals in your area for your FREE estimate.
