You'll pay between $6,000 and $23,000 for the cost of rubber roofing on a standard-sized roof, or an average of $12,000.
A rubber roof costs between $6,000 and $23,000 to install on average, which is considerable compared to other roofing materials. However, rubbing roofing offers durability and a host of other benefits. Rubber roofs end up costing between $4 and $13 per square foot. Roof size, membrane type, and labor fluctuations are the main drivers of price.
Don't let rubber roof prices deter you from making this valuable and practical upgrade. Few things are more important than keeping a roof over you and the people you love—bonus points if you install a long-lasting and cost-effective solution.
Roof size will influence how much your rubber roof installation will cost. Smaller roofs require less material and less installation time, leading to a lower cost overall. Larger roofs will use more material and be more time-consuming to install, so expect to pay more for a large roof.
| Square Footage | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 500 | $2,000–$6,500 |
| 1000 | $4,000–$13,000 |
| 1500 | $6,000–$19,500 |
| 2000 | $8,000–$26,000 |
| 2500 | $10,000–$32,500 |
| 3000 | $12,000–$39,000 |
Roofing labor costs can run between $2 and $6 per square foot on top of material costs, or $3,000 to $10,000 total in labor for the project. Labor costs account for an average of 45% to 65% of the total installation costs of a rubber roof and will be factored into the quote provided by your roofer.
Rubber roof installation costs more in urban areas and in remote locations where materials may be hard to obtain or there may be a limited number of contractors who install rubber roofs. Suburban and rural areas will see lower costs for rubber roof installation, although expect to pay more in any area with a higher cost of living.
The cost of a rubber roof can vary based on factors including material, complexity, old roof removal costs, and permit fees. Consider these factors when calculating your total project cost.
Single-ply membrane roofs come in three common materials: thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and rubber roofs may also consist of rubber composite shingles. TPO roofing is the newest material out of the four and tends to carry the highest price tag, but all four materials are relatively comparable in price. The range for each material type depends on brand, quality, and exact material composition.
| Rubber Roof Material | Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| TPO | $4.50–$14 |
| EPDM | $4.25–$12 |
| PVC | $5.25–$12.50 |
| Shingles | $3–$13 |
Roof installation requires a building permit, so check with your municipality or have your roofer confirm permit requirements and fees before you start the project. Permit fees vary widely depending on location, but expect to pay anywhere between $100 and $1,000 for a permit to complete roof work.
Removing your old roof to prepare for a new roof installation costs an average of $1 to $2 per square foot. Consult your roofing pro to see if removal costs are included in your price quote or if you’ll need to pay an additional fee for removal.
Roofs that have multiple roof penetrations like chimneys, vents, or skylines will cost more since a rubber roof will need to be cut and sealed precisely around each obstacle. Homes with complex rooflines may also incur extra costs, as a new roof will take longer to install and require precision on each different roof feature.
Installing a rubber roof isn’t a DIY job. Although rubber roofs are usually installed on flat roofs or roofs with a very low slope, unless you have roof installation experience, it’s best to leave this project to the pros and hire a roofing contractor. Any roofing work poses safety risks, and improperly installing a rubber roof can lead to leaks, water damage, and even a voided roof warranty. Call a local rubber roofing installer to ensure the job is done right and quickly.
Rubber roofs are easier to repair than other kinds of roofs, and small tears or holes can be quickly patched to prevent further damage. Rubber roofs can last between 30 and 40 years, but if your roof is more than 20 years old and has needed multiple repairs, you may be better off investing in the cost to replace the roof rather than continuing to repeatedly patch it. A roof repair pro can assess your rubber roof’s condition and advise you if repair or replacement is the better option.
Rubber roofing can be a relatively affordable option, but there are still ways you can save even more on installation.
Schedule your roof installation during a slow season. Some roofers may offer discounts during the off-season to keep their schedules full.
Choose a lower-cost material. Be sure to use at least the minimum recommended material for your roof, but opt for a more budget-friendly choice rather than a higher-end material if possible.
Get a minimum of three quotes from qualified roofers. Clarify what each quote includes and then compare for the best value.
A new roof can be an enticing factor when it comes time to sell your home, since it decreases the chances that the roof will need replacement or serious repairs in the near future. Rubber roofs offer improved energy efficiency and protection from weather and wind damage, and you’ll likely see some return on your initial investment reflected in your home’s value.
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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A rubber roof, when properly installed, can last between 30 and 40 years. The factors that contribute to that large gap include how harsh the weather is where you live (both excessive precipitation and UVs), the quality and thickness of the rubber roof that’s installed, and the condition of the structure underneath the new roof. Ask the manufacturer—they will have a better idea of the life span of your specific roof, but you’ll always get the most honest answer from a non-affiliated contractor.
Rubber roofing is commonly marketed as environmentally conscious due to its use of recycled materials and the product's ability to save on energy costs. However, it is important to research the individual product you consider if you were hoping to tout the greener aspects of your roof.
If you live on the West Coast or anywhere with the threat of wildfires, you likely want to take steps to fireproof your home. Besides waterproofing and life span, rubber roofing also is noted for being fire resistant. Consult a professional roofer for details on what type of roofing would be best for you if fire resistance is a priority.
