Living in Hawaii is a dream come true for many. With its stunning natural beauty, tropical climate, and active outdoor lifestyle, it’s no wonder why so many people call the Aloha State home. However, with Hawaii’s unique island environment comes unique challenges – including the need for a reliable and durable roof to shield your home from the elements.
Whether you’re dealing with a leaky roof, looking to invest in a new property, or simply looking to upgrade your current roof, you’re definitely wondering about new roof costs.
The average price of new roof in Hawaii can vary widely depending on several factors, and in this blog, we will explore all the factors of new roof costs in detail.
Types and New Roof Cost in Oahu
When selecting a roofing type in Hawaii, you must consider structural concerns, roofing material costs, longevity, and aesthetics. Here are the most popular types of roofs that you should consider based on your needs to figure the average cost to tear off and replace your roof. We will also discuss the cost to put shingles on the roof per square foot below:
1- Asphalt Shingles
One of the most common types of roofing material popular in the USA is Asphalt shingles. They come in a variety of ranges and the two most common types are “builder-grade” and architectural asphalt shingles.
While the cost of build-grade asphalt shingles cost can range from $3.50 to $5.50 per square foot, the cost of architectural shingles can range somewhere around $6 to $10.50 per square foot.
Architectural shingles are of higher quality and also mimic expensive materials like wooden shakes or slate tiles. Moreover, these shingles are durable and have great energy efficiency.
2- Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are known for their durability and energy efficiency, which is far better than asphalt roofs.
As a result, their prices are also at the higher end, the average cost for material and labor can range from $5 to $26 per square foot.
The big disparity in the prices is due to the metal used, The cheapest metal roof is made up of corrugated steel, while the expensive ones use zinc & copper.
3- Flat Roofing
Flat roofing is a roofing style that is almost level or has a minor slight pitch for water drainage. Flat roofing is often used on commercial & industrial roof replacement but can also be used on homes with modern & contemporary style homes.
These roofs can be made of a variety of materials including EPDM rubber, PVC, and TPO, which provide a waterproof covering & protect the building from weather.
While a flat roof is prone to leaks and requires regular maintenance, it’s still a cost-friendly option that can last over 30 years. The cost of flat roofing along with labor can range from $2.50 to $9 per square foot in Hawaii, USA.
4- Wood Shake
As the name suggests these roofs are made up of wood, usually cedar, and know for their aesthetic essence.
These roofs are commonly used in historic and architectural buildings like craftsman and cottage homes.
It’s not only a pricey option but some areas restrict wood-shaking roofing due to its high fire risk. You can expect to pay somewhere around $9 to $18 per square foot, for a wooden shake roof.
5- Slate
Slate tiles are very elegant and energy efficient but they can be quite expensive. For a stale roof, you can expect to pay $15 to $30 per square foot.
While the cost looks slightly expensive, you will be amazed to know their durability. With a lifespan of almost a century, they are among the most long-lasting roofing options.
Check out the blog post Roof replacement cost in 2025, by nerd wallet for further cost estimates.
Factors Affecting Roof Replacement Costs
While there are various factors that determines complete roof replacement costs, below we have discussed some of the major factors:
Size of Roof
One major factor that affects new roof costs is the size of the roof. Since the majority of roofing service providers in Hawaii charge by roofing square, therefore the larger your roof, the more you are bound to pay.
Roofing Material
The material you choose can dramatically vary the cost of roof replacement. While Asphalt shingles are the most economical option, if you want durability, you can choose to go with material like metal, slate, or tiles.
Design of Roof
The complexity of design is yet another crucial factor that determines the overall cost to redo roofs. If your roof doesn’t have much angles or steeps, you can expect to pay less and vice versa.
Removal of Old Roof
Replacing a roof requires the removal of the old roof. This process can be labor extensive and costly. Moreover, the material being removed & the number of floors in your building also add up to the overall roof replacement cost.
Signs You Need to Redo Roof
When it comes to replacing a roof, it’s not always easy. Some serious red flags that it’s time to redo your roof include:
Your Roof is 20 Years or Older
Your roof probably needs to be replaced if it’s more than 20 years old. This age range can be different depending on your roof and where you live, so make sure you ask your builder.
Roof Shingles are Curling
The shingles on your roof need to be replaced if you see them curling or breaking. These problems can be caused by different things, but they all mean that the roof is worn out and needs to be replaced.
Have Leaks in Your Home
Many things can lead to leaks in your home, but if the leak won’t go away or keeps coming back, it may be time for a new roof. It is crucial to take care of leaks right away because they can lead to major issues.
Your Roof is Sagging
If the edges of your roof are sagging, it means that the structure is weak and this roof needs to be replaced. There are many reasons why this might happen, but it’s always a sign that you need a new roof.
Tips To Choose The Right Roofing Contractor
You should not skimp on research when choosing a roofing contractor. The service provider you choose has a significant impact on the longevity and performance of your roof.
Ask for Referrals From Friends & Family
Ask someone who just had work done on their roof. Referrals from people are a great way to find a good provider and also to determine which ones to stay away from.
Choose a Reputable Vendor
Local companies know the kinds of weather & climate conditions your roof will have to withstand. You must choose a roofing company that has been in the area for a long time and have a strong reputation.
Get Multiple Quotes
Make sure that all agreements are in writing before the work starts. The contract should include the scope of the project, the timeline, the materials that will be used, and the roof replacement estimate. First class roofing provides free estimates and can be contacted for urgent roof inspections.
Don’t Decide Solely Based on Pricing
If the quote appears too good to be true, double-check that the company has adequate insurance. Price isn’t everything, and in most cases, the extremely low cost of new roof implies low quality.
Consider the Experience of the Roofer
Consider a company that has been in business for a long time. Experienced contractors are more likely to produce high-quality work.
DIY Or Hiring a PRO- What You Should Choose?
You can save thousands of dollars on labor if you install a typical roof yourself, but we don’t advise it. Apart from the safety risks, there is a very high chance that the project will have unanticipated costs.
It is highly recommended that you install a new roof using a local roofer in Hawaii. It will ensure the work is done correctly and in a professional manner along with achieving an affordable new roof cost in your budget.
Moreover, your insurance provider is likely to only pay you back if you are a professional roofer. Going the do-it-yourself option could void your roof warranty.
Looking for a pocket-friendly quote from a reliable roofing service provider in Hawaii? Get in touch with us!