The national average cost to replace a roof is around $8,000, proving just how expensive the undertaking can be. While DIY-ing the matter can seem like the obvious route to go when looking to save money on such a job, re-roofing a home can often be a dangerous task that requires specialized knowledge, certain tools, and a lot of time to get the job done right. That said, here are just a few smart ways you can go about getting your home re-roofed on a budget via a professional — without having to sacrifice quality along the way. 

How a roof inspection can help

When looking to get any kind of work done on your roof, planning ahead as much as possible is essential in getting the best price out there. For example, while the kind of roof work needed can seem obvious (such as in the event of severe damage or age), getting an inspector to evaluate the situation will allow you to know exactly what’s needed, and costs an average of $203, according to HomeAdvisor. Not only will this save you from having to totally re-roof should only minor repairs be necessary, but you’ll be able to have the opportunity to explore options for financing and roofing material.

Considering the variables

While investing in the cheapest roofing out there can seem logical when looking to save money, it’s necessary to realize that there are a number of variables at play when looking to re-roof a home. For instance, while the national average cost of re-roofing is $8,000, most people wind up spending between $5,500 and $11,000 due to the many factors at play that affect pricing, according to Forbes. In addition to square footage of a home as well as roofing materials, roofing contractors will always consider the type of property and its design before recommending a roofing material. Location and weather can also become a factor when determining the best roof material for your home as well, as certain materials tend to do better in harsh weather conditions.

When it comes to affordable roofing material, pricing depends on a variety of factors; asphalt shingle roofs tend to be one of the cheapest options out there, and generally last between 15-30 years. With that in mind, there are three different kinds of asphalt shingles available - 3-tab asphalt tabs tend to be the cheapest, while dimensional shingles cost around 15% more than the 3-tab option and mimic the appearance of wood shingles. Luxury shingles, on the other hand, are larger to mimic slate shingles, and are typically double the price of 3-tab asphalt shingles. Metal roofing is another roofing material option, and while it's expensive and requires a specialized professional to install, it can pay off in the long run thanks to its long lifespan and durability.

Shopping smart

In addition to planning ahead with an inspection and considering the variables at play in terms of pricing, using smart shopping techniques can also prove to be a great way to re-roof more affordably. For example, because most roofers tend to be the busiest in the late summer and fall, opting to get work done in the off-season may result in getting the work done cheaper via discounts. Additionally, doing your research when looking for a contractor can also pay off. Getting quotes from multiple professionals is a great way to start, and taking reviews into consideration will allow you to efficiently shop around for the right person to do the job at a good price.

Re-roofing your home is bound to be an expensive task, though there are ways to save money and still get a quality job done safely by a professional. By planning ahead with an inspection, using smart shopping techniques, and knowing what options are out there, you’re sure to get the job done more affordably when compared to simply jumping in.