How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Garage Roof?

The cost to replace a garage roof is $3,970 on average across the country. However, homeowners selecting high-end to budget-friendly roofing materials for roofs of different sizes might pay anywhere from $2,390 to $5,560. With average costs per square foot for non-premium roofing options ranging from $4 to $11, the cost to replace a 350-square-foot garage roof is around $2,450. As you plan your new garage roof, this guide will break down all of the costs that go into the project.

Size of Garage

The size of your garage roof is the biggest cost factor when it comes to replacement. 

Roofer Costs

On average, local roofing contractors charge between $40 and $90 per hour. Labor can account for up to 40% of the cost to replace a garage roof. Add-on costs can include:

Installing gutters: $1,170

Skylight installation: $1,910

Hauling away old roof: $240

Cost by Location

With labor accounting for up to 40% of the cost to replace a garage roof, homeowners in areas with higher cost of living generally pay more for this project. In areas with cold weather and snowfall, overall roofing prices can be higher because roofers cannot schedule roof installations in frigid conditions.

Additional Cost Factors

Your roofing contractor may need to tack on costs for preparing to install your garage's replacement roof. Here's a look at the common costs to keep in mind when planning your budget for this project.

Demolition and Prep

As you factor a new roof into your overall garage remodel cost, remember that your roofing contractor will need to remove your existing roof before installing a replacement. On average, contractors charge between $1 and $5 per square based on the complexity of your roof and the weight of the roofing material being pulled away. The cost to haul away old roofing materials is around $400. However, some contractors work the cost of disposing of your old roof into the rate per square foot.

If a new roof ridge vent needs to be installed for ventilation in preparation for your new roof, expect a roof pro to charge between $300 and $650. Depending on the style of your roof, you may require box vents costing an average of $500 each, soffit vents costing between $315 and $465 each, or gable roof vents costing between $60 and $150 each.

If your roofing contractor recommends replacing existing chimney flashing before putting on your new roof, expect the cost to range between $400 and $1,600. This upgrade will ensure that water damage doesn't threaten your home's framing.

Your contractor is also likely to install a new drip edge with your new roof. A drip edge is a type of metal flashing that keeps water out of your roof by directing it to the gutters. It is placed on the edge of the roof. With an average cost of $1 to $3 per linear foot for a new drip edge, the cost to fully protect an average garage roof is around $375. While costs for drip edges can go as high as $1,000, you're more likely to see the price as low as $150 to $200 with a new garage roof installation because contractors will blend the cost into the total project cost.

Permits

Code and permit requirements vary from place to place when it comes to replacing an existing garage roof. In general, removing and replacing shingles or tiles would be considered a structural change that requires a permit. If you hire a roofing pro, they will take care of pulling all permits required for the project. On average, the cost for a permit for replacing a garage roof is between $100 and $400.

Roofing Material

The type of material you select for your roof redo dramatically impacts overall project costs. Here's what you can expect to pay for common roofing options:

• Asphalt shingles: $3–$7 per square foot

• Metal: $7–$13 per square foot

• Standing seam metal: $4–$30 per square foot

• Wood shakes: $6–$13 per square foot

• Clay tiles: $10–$20 per square foot

• Slate/stone: $15–$30 per square foot

• Composite: $4–$8 per square foot

Garage Roof Replacement vs. Repair

With average roof repairs costs between $700 and $2,000 for a 350-square-foot structure, paying for extensive repairs instead of replacing a worn-out roof may not be the best idea. If repairing an existing garage roof exceeds 50% of the cost of installing a new roof, it's better to go with the peace of mind of a full upgrade. Additionally, a roof that is near the end of its warranty or expected lifespan should also be replaced instead of sinking money into repairs. On average, roof lifespan ranges from 20 to 30 years for asphalt and wood shingles to 50 to 100 years for metal and tiles.

Garage roof repairs are generally best when a roof has surface-level problems. The cost to replace a few missing shingles or take care of a minor leak may range from $100 to $300. However, sagging or damaged fascia could total $2,500 to $3,000 for a garage roof.

How You Can Save Money While Replacing a Garage Roof

Bring down the cost to replace a garage roof using these tips:

• If you feel confident about climbing on your home's roof, removing your existing roof could save you up to $700 on your roof installation project. The cost to rent a dumpster for a week to dispose of your old roofing materials ranges from $293 to $479.

• Keeping the same roofing material as your current roof could also reduce costs by allowing you to keep existing vents and gutters.

• Choose a flat roof. In general, garage flat roof replacement cost is lower compared to sloped roofs because the simple design and reduced surface area make flat roofs easier to install.

• Get at least three quotes from local roofing contractors to compare costs.

Does Replacing a Garage Roof Increase Home Value?

When updating a home, the return on investment (ROI) on new roofing is between 48% and 61%. ROI is best when the roof has been installed professionally with a warranty that can be passed on to the new homeowner. A new garage roof adds value by increasing a home's efficiency and reducing risks of water damage. If you're replacing a worn, damaged garage roof, the aesthetic appeal can boost curb appeal.

Why You Should Hire a Garage Roof Replacement Pro

DIY replacement can bring the cost of a 350-square-foot roof down from $2,625 to as low as $1,575 by cutting labor costs. Homeowners should keep in mind that professional roofers provide expertise when installing underlayment and flashing to protect their home against water damage.

DIY garage roofing has a risk for low-quality work that could leave your garage exposed to rot and mold. Getting a quote for a new roof from a local garage remodeling company near you is the best option for a safe, secure replacement. 

Here’s why it’s ideal to hire a garage roof replacement pro

Replacing a garage roof is a complex project that requires specialized skills and equipment. Here’s why it’s best to hire a pro for the job:

• Professionals know how to prevent leaks, structural damage, and deterioration.

• Hiring a pro ensures your project complies with local building codes and safety regulations.

• Pros have the specialized tools, materials, and equipment necessary for roof replacement.

• DIY projects can result in water damage, improper sealing, and costly repairs.

• Reputable roofing contractors know how to safely handle roofing materials, install insulation, and ensure proper ventilation.

If you want to DIY garage roof replacement

To assist your pro with the replacement, consider taking on the following tasks:

• Keep shingles, nails, and equipment nearby and easily accessible for your pro.

• Keep pets, children, and household members away from the work area.

• Help position ladders, scaffolding, or tarps with your roofer’s guidance.

• Assist with the cleanup of debris, roofing materials, and packaging once the job is complete.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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