Roofers Guide: Costs, Tips & Choosing the Right Contractor

If you’re staring at a leaky ceiling or an old shingles mess, you’re probably wondering how much a roofer will charge and what you should look for. The good news? You don’t need a construction degree to make sense of roof estimates. This guide breaks down the numbers, the hidden fees, and the steps to find a roofer who does the job right without blowing your budget.

How Roofers Charge: Price per Square, Materials & Extras

Most roofers quote a price per "square," which is 100 square feet of roof area. That number can swing wildly. A cheap asphalt shingle roof might start at $70 per square, while high‑end slate can push $300 or more. But the headline price rarely tells the whole story. You’ll often see three extra line items:

• Pitch factor: Steeper roofs need more labor and safety gear, so the cost per square jumps.
• Removal of old roofing: Tearing off existing material adds labor and disposal fees. Some contracts bundle it, others list it separately.
• Flashing and ventilation: Proper flashing around chimneys and vents prevents leaks, and each piece adds to the total.

Our own post, “Roofers Charge Per Square: What’s Typical and Why It’s Not Always Simple,” walks through real‑world examples so you can spot when a quote is too low or oddly high.

Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor

Price matters, but you also want a roofer who shows up on time, cleans up, and lasts. Here’s a quick checklist:

1. Ask for a written estimate that breaks down labor, materials, and each extra. If a roofer gives you a vague lump sum, walk away.
2. Check credentials. A valid UK‑wide roofing licence and insurance protect you if something goes wrong.
3. Read reviews. Look for patterns—are customers praising clean work, or complaining about surprise costs?
4. Get multiple quotes. Three solid bids give you a realistic market range and a chance to negotiate.
5. Ask about warranty. The best roofers stand behind their work with at least a 5‑year warranty on labor and manufacturer’s warranty on materials.

When you’ve narrowed it down, use the tips from “How to Negotiate the Price of a New Roof: Insider Strategies That Work.” Knowing when to push for a discount and when to accept a higher price for higher quality can save you thousands.

Don’t forget budgeting. Our article “Roof Replacement Budget Breakdown: Real Costs, Smart Planning, and Money‑Saving Strategies” shows how to map out every expense—from underlayment to final clean‑up—so you avoid surprise invoices mid‑project.

Finally, if you’re looking for the most frugal route, check out “Cheapest Ways to Roof a House: Budget Roofing Options That Last.” It lists affordable materials like metal panels and concrete tiles that still give you a solid, long‑lasting roof.

Bottom line: a good roofer will be clear about per‑square pricing, explain every extra charge, and provide a warranty that backs their work. Use the checklist above, compare a few estimates, and you’ll walk away with a roof that protects your home and your wallet.