What to Expect to Pay for a Roof Replacement
By Cadia Roofing & Exteriors | February 28, 2025
If your roof’s showing its age—cracked shingles, leaks, or storm damage—you might be wondering what a replacement will cost here in Pennsylvania. It’s a big investment, and prices can vary depending on your home, your choice of materials, and where you live in the Keystone State. At Cadia Roofing & Exteriors, we’ve been replacing roofs for Pennsylvania families for years, and we’re all about keeping it real with you. So, what should you expect to pay? Let’s break it down—honestly and simply.
The Basics: Roofing Costs 101
Roof replacement costs are usually calculated per “square” (100 square feet), covering materials, labor, and disposal of the old roof. In Pennsylvania, the average price ranges from $5,000 to $18,000 for a typical home (1,500-2,000 sq ft), but it can climb higher for larger homes or premium materials. Here’s what drives that number—and how it shakes out for PA homeowners.
Factors That Affect Your Roof Replacement Cost
Roof Size and Complexity
What It Means: A bigger roof means more materials and labor. Steep pitches, dormers, or lots of chimneys add time and cost too.
PA Impact: Example, a standard ranch-style home in Media (around 2,000 sq ft) might cost $7,000-$12,000, while a larger, multi-gabled home in Malvern (around 2,500 sq ft) could range from $10,000-$18,000.
Your Cost: Measure your roof’s footprint (length x width) and add 10-20% for slope—give us a call, and we’ll figure it exact.
Material Choice
What It Means: Asphalt shingles are the most common and affordable; metal, tile, or slate cost more but offer longer lifespans.
PA Impact: Most Pennsylvanians pick asphalt shingles ($90-$150 per square) for affordability. Metal roofing ($150-$600 per square) is gaining fans for its snow-shedding power, while slate ($600-$1,500 per square) suits historic gems.
Your Cost: A 20-square asphalt roof might be $6,000-$8,000; the same in metal could be $10,000-$15,000.
Labor and Location
What It Means: Labor rates vary by region, and rural areas might be cheaper than urban hubs like Philly or Pittsburgh.
PA Impact: In Pennsylvania, labor’s typically $40-$60 per hour. A replacement takes 1-3 days, so expect $1,000-$2,500 baked into the total just for crew time.
Your Cost: Closer to cities, you might pay a bit more—think $500-$1,000 extra in metro areas.
Roof Condition
What It Means: If your old roof’s decking is rotted or there’s mold from leaks, repairs add up.
PA Impact: Our freeze-thaw cycles and heavy snow can mean more underlying damage, especially on older homes.
Your Cost: New plywood might add $1,000-$3,000 if widespread; minor fixes are less.
Extras (Permits, Dump Fees, etc.)
What It Means: Permits ($50-$200), dumpster rental ($300-$500), and tear-off costs pile on.
PA Impact: Some PA towns require permits, and disposal’s pricier near cities.
Your Cost: Budget $500-$1,000 for these odds and ends.
Why Costs Vary Across PA
Urban Proximity: Homes in King of Prussia or Wayne, closer to Philly, may cost slightly more ($500-$1,000) due to higher labor rates and material transport.
Weather Wear: Homes that see more snow damage; southeast PA gets more hail—both can bump repair needs.
Local Roofers: Big chains might charge more for overhead; local companies usually keep it lean and fair.
Tips to Keep Costs Down
Act Early: Fix small issues now—don’t wait for a full tear-off.
Compare Quotes: Get 2-3 bids, but watch for lowball scams (we’ll warn you about those).
Pick Smart Materials: Asphalt’s budget-friendly; metal’s a long-term win in PA’s climate.
Why Cadia’s Your PA Roofing Partner
As a family-owned Pennsylvania business, we’re not here to nickel-and-dime you. We’ll give you a free, detailed estimate—no hidden fees, no pushy upsells. We know PA’s weather and homes inside out and we price fairly to match. Our goal? A roof you love at a cost that makes sense.
Ready to Price Your New Roof?
Wondering what your replacement might run? Every home’s different, so let’s talk specifics. Contact Cadia Roofing & Exteriors at info@cadiaroofing.com or submit our free estimate form located on our website for a no-cost consultation. We’ll measure, assess, and quote you straight—because in Pennsylvania, your roof deserves the best without breaking the bank.
