Architectural Roofing Shingles Cost

Average Cost of Architectural Shingles

Architectural shingles (aka dimensional or laminate shingles) cost $15,000 and $25,500 on average to install on a standard 3,000-square-foot roof. That works out to about $4 to $8.50 per square foot, or $400 to $850 per roofing square (100 square feet). If you’re choosing premium, 50-year architectural shingles, you can expect to pay toward the higher end of that range — around $6 to $8.50 per square foot.

Architectural Shingle Cost by Roof Size

The size of your roof is one of the biggest factors in the total cost of your architectural shingle installation. Here’s a look at what you might pay based on the square footage:

Calculating Roof Size

Your roof’s square footage isn’t the same as your home’s, but knowing your home’s size can help you estimate how big your roof is.

Here’s a simple way to do it:

• For a roof with a moderate slope and a basic design, multiply your home’s square footage by 1.1.
  Example: A 2,000-square-foot home would have a roof that’s roughly 2,200 square feet.
• If your roof is steep or has a more complex design, multiply by 1.5 instead.
  Example: That same 2,000-square-foot home would have a roof that’s about 3,000 square feet.

This estimate isn’t exact, but it’ll give you a solid starting point when budgeting your roofing project.

Alternatively, if you don’t feel like doing math, Modernize’s free Roof Cost Calculator can estimate how much your roofing project will cost:

Roof Replacement Cost Calculator

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Architectural Shingle Cost by Quality

30-year architectural shingles cost, on average, $4 to $7 per square foot to install. They are lower to mid-range quality, expected to last 30 years.

50-year architectural shingles cost, on average, $6 to $8.50 per square foot to install. They are often of higher quality and are expected to last 50 years.

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Additional Cost Factors

Several factors can influence the total price of your architectural shingle roof installation.

Warranties

Roofers should offer a workmanship warranty, which covers any problems caused by poor installation for a set period. Sometimes, these warranties only last a year or two, while others may last for the lifetime of the roof. A reputable roofer should provide at least a 10-year workmanship warranty.

On top of that, manufacturers usually offer warranties on the roofing materials themselves. For architectural asphalt shingles, material warranties typically range from 30 years to the lifetime of the shingles. An architectural shingle with a longer warranty is often of higher quality and more expensive.

Keep in mind, most of these warranties start to prorate after about 10 years, which means the coverage decreases over time. Some manufacturers offer an upgraded 50-year non-prorated warranty, but that usually costs extra. To qualify, your roofer often needs to be certified by the shingle manufacturer.

Roof Complexity, Pitch, and Slope

A steep or complex roof pitch or a complex roof layout will cost more. Firstly, these types of roofs require more materials, which obviously increases the cost. Secondly, a steep roof pitch requires roofers to need additional safety equipment and time, increasing labor costs.

Roof Condition

If your roof needs repairs or reinforcement before new shingles can be installed, that will add to the project cost.

Location and Labor Rates

Labor costs vary by region. Areas with higher demand (like big cities) and cost of living may see higher rates.

How to Save Money on Architectural Shingle Costs

• Get Multiple Quotes. Don’t go with the first roofer you talk to. Get at least three estimates from licensed, insured contractors. Comparing prices and services can help you find the best deal — and sometimes contractors will match or beat a competitor’s price.
• Schedule During the Off-Season. Roofing is busiest in late spring through early fall. If you can schedule your project during the winter or early spring, you might get lower labor rates because demand is lower.
• Choose Mid-Range Shingles. Architectural shingles come in a range of prices. Unless you need the top-of-the-line option, standard or mid-tier shingles can give you a long-lasting, attractive roof at a lower cost.
• Keep Up With Roof Maintenance. Regular roof inspections, gutter cleaning, and prompt repairs can extend the life of your roof and help you avoid the need for a full replacement sooner than necessary.

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Architectural vs 3-Tab vs Luxury Asphalt Shingles

What Are the Best Roofing Materials?

Interested in looking at clay, rubber, or metal roofing instead? This is the place to start.

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Are Architectural Shingles Worth the Extra Cost?

Many homeowners feel that architectural shingles are worth the higher price. They do cost more than basic three-tab asphalt shingles, but they typically offer a better return on investment — around 6% added to your home’s value. Plus, they last much longer, with a lifespan of 30 to 50 years compared to standard shingles. Architectural shingles are also the go-to choice for high-end homes because they’re more durable and, frankly, they just look better.

Architectural Shingle Replacement vs. Repair Costs

When to Repair

If your roof only has minor damage, such as a few missing shingles or small leaks, repairs can cost between $150 and $1,000, depending on the extent of the damage.

When to Replace

If your roof is over 20 years old, has widespread damage, or has reached the end of its lifespan, a full replacement is typically recommended. The average cost for replacement ranges from $12,000 to $25,500.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

Tackling home projects yourself can be rewarding, but when it comes to installing architectural shingles, it’s better to leave it to the pros. Roofing isn’t the kind of job you want to learn as you go — one small mistake can lead to big problems like leaks, water damage, or even voiding your material warranty. Most manufacturers require professional installation to keep their warranty valid.

And let’s not forget: roof work is risky. Climbing ladders, hauling heavy materials, and balancing on a sloped surface is no joke, especially without the right safety gear and experience.

If you want to protect your home and stay safe, your best move is to hire a licensed roofing contractor who knows how to get the job done right.

Hiring an Architectural Shingle Contractor

Finding the right roofing contractor is one of the most important steps in your project. A good roofer will make sure your architectural shingles are installed properly, safely, and up to code.

Look for a contractor who is licensed, insured, and experienced with architectural shingles. It’s also smart to read reviews, ask for references, and compare a few quotes before making your decision.

If you’re not sure where to start, Modernize can help. We can connect you with up to four local, vetted roofing contractors so you can easily compare your options and find the best fit for your project.

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