Roofing is priced by the square, but the money is won or lost on the parts you cannot see until the tear-off: the decking, the layers, and the flashing. Here is how to build a roof replacement quote that survives what you find up there.
Step 1: Measure in squares and pick the material
A roofing square is 100 sq ft. Measure the roof area (not the floor), divide by 100 for your square count, and set your installed price per square by material. Confirm the count on final measurement.
| Material (installed) | Unit | Typical 2026 cost |
|---|---|---|
| 3-tab asphalt | per square | $300–$500 |
| Architectural shingle | per square | $400–$600 |
| Metal | per square | $500–$1,600 |
| Tile | per square | $700–$2,500 |
| Tear-off & removal | per square | $100–$500 |
Step 2: Price tear-off and count the layers
Removing the old roof and hauling it off is real cost — line tear-off per square and note how many existing layers you are removing, since a second or third layer adds labor and disposal. Add a dumpster line.
Step 3: Add a decking allowance for hidden rot
You cannot see rotted plywood until the roof is open. Put a per-sq-ft decking replacement rate in the estimate so replacing bad decking is priced, not argued. This single line turns the most common roofing surprise into a documented change order.
Step 4: Add accessories, markup, and a deposit
Underlayment, flashing, drip edge, and ridge vent are what make the roof last and the warranty hold — line them. Then add markup for overhead and profit, take a deposit to schedule, and provide your workmanship warranty in writing.
Example: a 25-square architectural roof installed at $450/square ($11,250), tear-off at $150/square ($3,750), and a $450 dumpster is $15,450 of work. With a 10% markup and tax on the dumpster, the quote lands near $17,030 — with about $5,100 as a 30% deposit.
Common pricing mistakes to avoid
- No decking allowance — price a per-sq-ft rate so hidden rot is not a fight.
- Forgetting tear-off and disposal — removal and the dumpster are real cost.
- Skipping accessories — underlayment, flashing, and ridge vent make the roof last.
- Guessing the square count — measure the roof and confirm on final measurement.
Price by the square and protect yourself with a decking allowance. Start your next one in the roofing estimate tool.