Roofing in Nor Cal prices

[Debra R.]

We've received estimates on re-roofing a SFR near Sacramento. 1 at about 9K and another at about 20K. Of course pricing depends on the materials used, but still we'd like to have an idea about what is reasonable. Any ideas on the usual sf cost of a medium quality roof around Sac?

[Kyle J.]

The question is too broad to provide a detailed response.  It's a bit like asking how much is a car?  Could be a $1,000 or it could be a $100,000 depending on the type of car.  :)

The price of a roof is based on many factors, such as:

- size of the roof

- pitch of the roof

- accessibility of the roof

- what kind of existing roofing material (if any) needs to be removed first

- what type/quality of new roofing material is going to be installed

- how much (if any) sheathing/fascia/etc (if any) needs to be replaced (often this isn't even included in the original bid price because it may not be able to be determined until the old roof is removed)

- whether or not the "roofer" is a licensed professional who is bonded/insured and going to follow-through with the proper permits/inspections, or if it's just some guy off Craigslist that does roofing on the side

The point is, there's lots of variables.  That being said, that's quite a big range of prices you've been quoted and I'd make sure they're quoting you for the same thing (apples to apples).  $20k is also very high for a typical re-roof on a single family rental property. 

Your best bet is just to get as many quotes from reputable contractors as you can.