Changing a flat roofing system is a significant monetary investment; however, comprehending the expenses included can assist you make a knowledgeable option. In this short post, we’ll break down just how much does it cost to replace flat roof, factors that impact the rate, and the very best materials for your home. We’ll also provide you with a clearer picture of what you can expect during the replacement process.

What is a Flat Roof?

A flat roofing system is a type of roofing that is almost level, with a slope of 10 degrees or less. Unlike angled roofs, flat roofing systems have a single waterproof layer to protect the building. They’re common in business buildings; however, they are likewise discovered in domestic homes.

Pros and Cons of Flat Roofs

Pros:

• Lower installation expense.
• Provides extra area for gardens or outdoor living areas.
• Much easier to keep sometimes.

Cons:

• Shorter life expectancy (15-20 years).
• Requirements include correct drainage to avoid water pooling.
• More regular repair work compared to pitched roofing systems.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Flat Roof?

The expense to change a flat roofing differs depending on numerous elements. On average, changing a flat roof costs around $7,400. Rates can vary from $3,300 to $11,500 based on the size, products utilized, and your location.

Here’s a better take a look at the elements impacting the cost to change a flat roofing:

1. Roofing Size

The size of your flat roofing will play a big role in the total cost. Bigger roofings need more product and labor, which increases the price. Changing a flat roofing system on a 1,200-square-foot home might cost more than one on a 600-square-foot home.

2. Material Choice

The product you select for your flat roofing replacement can considerably modify the expense. Some items are more budget-friendly, however, they require more frequent replacements, while others are more costly but offer longer-lasting durability.

Flat Roof Material Costs

Here’s a table summarizing the expenses of various products utilized for flat roofings. These are approximated expenses per square foot, based on a 1,200-square-foot roofing:

Flat Roof Material	Cost per Square Foot	Total Cost for 1,200 sq. ft. Roof
Metal	$4 – $30	$4,800 – $36,000
Modified Bitumen	$4 – $8	$4,800 – $9,600
Built-up Roof (BUR)	$4 – $10	$4,800 – $12,000
Rubber Membrane (EPDM)	$4 – $13	$4,800 – $15,600
Single-ply Membrane	$4 – $7	$4,800 – $8,400
Fiberglass/Glass Reinforced	$4 – $6	$4,800 – $7,200

Each material features its own advantages:

• Metal: Metal roofings are resilient and resistant to high winds. They can last 40– 70 years but are pricey.
• Modified Bitumen: An economical option with outstanding durability, perfect for cold environments.
• Built-up Roof (BUR): Known for its strength, BUR makes use of a number of layers of asphalt, making it perfect for places with a great deal of particles.
• Rubber Membrane (EPDM): A popular alternative for flat roofs due to its versatility and resistance to weather extremes.
• Single-ply Membrane: Easy to set up, providing outstanding value for cash.
• Fiberglass/Glass Reinforced: Offers excellent toughness and is a lower-cost choice.

Factors Affecting Flat Roof Replacement Costs

Now that you have an idea of product costs, there are other aspects to consider when figuring out just how much does it cost to replace flat roof. These aspects can raise or lower the total cost:

1. Labor Costs

Labor usually makes up a significant portion of the flat roof replacement cost, ranging from $3–$ 7 per square foot. Labor rates can vary depending on where you live. City locations generally have greater labor costs than rural locations.

2. Roofing system Removal

This will increase your overall cost if you require getting rid of the old roof before setting up a new one. Roofing elimination typically costs between $3–$ 7 per square foot. If your roof has several layers or is hard to gain access to, the cost could go higher.

3. Drain System

A flat roofing system needs a correct drainage system to prevent water from pooling. You may need to replace it if your present drain system is dated or not working well. The expense of a new drain system can differ depending upon the type. Internal drains may cost in between $150 and $250 each, while scuppers are a more affordable option, costing $75–$ 150 each.

Cost Breakdown: Example for a 1,200-Square-Foot Roof

To understand better what are the costs for a replacement of a flat roof, let’s consider an example. Assume you have a flat surface of 1200 square feet and you chose an EPDM rubber membrane which costs $8 per square foot. Let’s have a very basic breakdown:

Item	Cost
Material Cost (EPDM at $8/sq ft)	$9,600
Labor Cost (avg. $5/sq ft)	$6,000
Roof Removal (avg. $4/sq ft)	$4,800
Total Estimated Cost	$20,400

In this example, the overall expense to change your flat roofing would be around $20,400. This includes the material, roofing, and labor elimination.

How Long Do Flat Roofs Last?

On average, flat roofs are able to last between 15 and 20 years, although they are products that last longer. Metal roofs, for example, can last 40-70 years but they have a much higher economic cost.

Here’s a fast comparison of the expected life span for various flat roof products:.

Material	Expected Lifespan
Metal	40–70 years
Modified Bitumen	15–30 years
Built-up Roof (BUR)	15–30 years
Rubber Membrane	20–30 years
Single-ply Membrane	15–25 years
Fiberglass	15–25 years

It is apparent that among various options, a metal and rubber membranes last longer, but they are more costly. In contrast, other alternatives, such as modified bitumen or fiberglass are less expensive but need to be replaced more often.

How to Compute the Replacement Expense of Your Flat Roofing System

Before getting in touch with a roofer, it’s useful to approximate just how much changing your flat roof will cost. In this manner, you’ll have a great idea of what a reasonable rate is when you get quotes. Here’s a simple way to calculate the cost:

Procedure Your Roof’s Size

Start by determining your home’s footprint. Increase the length by the width to get the overall square footage of your roofing system. For flat roofings, this measurement will carefully match your roofing system’s real size given that they have little to no slope.

Determine Material Costs

Increase your roof’s square footage by the regional rate for your chosen roofing material. Different products have various expenses per square foot, so ensure you utilize the proper rate for the material you’re considering.

Add Extra for Surprises

It’s constantly a great concept to include 10% to 15% to your overall expense estimate for unforeseen surprises during the task. These could include repairs to the roofing deck or flashing, which may only be found after the old roofing is eliminated.

Example Calculation

Let’s say you have a 30-by-50-foot flat roofing. Here’s how you would determine the cost:

• The roofing size is 30 feet x 50 feet = 1,500 square feet.
• If you pick EPDM rubber at $8 per square foot, the product expense would be:

1,500 sq. ft. x $8 = $12,000.

Now, add 10%– 15% for prospective additional costs (like repairs), which would be between $1,200 and $1,800.

So, your overall quote for changing the roofing would be in between $13,200 and $13,800.

Before calling roof professionals, it’s valuable to approximate how much changing your flat roofing system will cost. Here’s an easy way to compute the cost:

Multiply the length by the width to get the overall square footage of your roofing. For flat roofings, this measurement will closely match your roofing’s actual size since they have little to no slope.

FAQs

Are flat roofs more affordable to change?

Yes, flat roofings are normally more affordable to replace than angled roofs. They need less products and are easier to set up. However, the cost can still change based upon roofing size, materials, and where you live.

Is there a price to pay to add a pitched roof to a flat roof?

Prices quoted for alterations, estimated pitched roof replacements vary and start at $15,000 to $40,000. Additional pricing is warranted due to the heavy installation work and structural modifications to the house.

How do you know it’s coating time?

Roofs need coating every 5 to 10 years. It is designed to defend the roof against moisture and UV exposure, resulting in prolonged roof durability.

What is the best material for a flat roofing?

The finest material for a flat roof depends on your budget and where you live. Popular alternatives are EPDM rubber, TPO, and modified bitumen. Metal roofings last the longest but cost more.

Can you replace a flat roof yourself?

Although a flat roof can be replaced singlehandedly, it is counseled against – the work that needs to be done is intricate as well as perilous. Professional roofers are equipped with the required accessories as well as the skills to avoid injuries and perform everything accurately.

Conclusion

In summary, how much does it cost to replace flat roof? On flat roofing replacement, most people pay around $7400; the minimum people pay is $3300, whereas the maximum is $11500. These values depend on the roof size, location, and the materials chosen.

While obtaining the flat roof replacement quotes, remember that along with the initial installation price, the material’s endurance and upkeep needed in the future is the most important factor. You can also check with multiple contractors in the area to see how much they would charge for the roof replacement, and you can do the roof replacement at the most reasonable rate possible.