Replacing your roof is essential to keeping your home and safe and secure and preserving its value. How much does it really cost? We’ll explain the factors that influence prices, as well as the materials available and the average costs by roof type. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea on what’s involved in redoing a roof.
What it costs to replace a roof in 2026
Let’s get straight to it: a shingle roof can cost about $7,000 to $9,500 for a standard bungalow, depending on the situation. A flat roof, on the other hand, will run you at least $13,000 for 1,000 square feet.
Clearly, replacing a roof is a significant investment. But it’s usually better to be proactive than put the work off until later. A damaged roof can lead to leaks and major damage to your property, and these aren’t always covered by insurance companies. The amounts below are general estimates. In reality, the price will depend on a number of things, including the roof’s slope, its framing, the types of materials used, the surface area and climate.
Price for a sloped roof
| Standard bungalow | Two-storey home (steep slope) | Luxury home (multiple slopes) |
Asphalt shingles | $7,000 | $9,000 | $11,250 |
Metal roof | $20,000 to $36,000 | $23,000 to $42,000 | $29,000 to $77,700 |
* Prices are calculated for a 1,000-square foot home.
** Cost estimate provided for information purposes only.
Price for a flat roof
| Duplex (1,000 sq. ft.) | Triplex (1,600 sq. ft.) | Sixplex (5,000 sq. ft.)) |
EPDM and TPO | $13,000 to $18,000 | $14,500 to $19,000 | $48,000 to $60,000 |
Elastomeric membrane | $18,000 to $23,000 | $30,000 to $36,000 | $91,000 to $115,000 |
Approximate cost per square foot and average lifespan of a roof in 2026
Roof type | Average cost | Lifespan |
Asphalt shingles | $7/sq. ft. | 15 to 25 years* |
TPO and EPDM | $13+/sq. ft. | 25 to 30 years |
Elastomeric membrane | $19 to $23/sq. ft. | 20 to 30 years |
Sheet metal | $20 to $36/sq. ft. | 50+ years |
* Some newer types of shingles are designed for greater durability and could last up to 50 years under optimal conditions, although their long-term performance is yet to be confirmed.
** Please note that prices do not include demolition, crane rental, scaffolding, parking permits or street use permits. These figures are provided for information purposes and come from internal sources. Many other factors can influence the total renovation cost, such as the type of work required, labour, materials, safety measures, demolition fees, structural adjustments and unforeseen circumstances.
Thinking of renovating?
What affects the cost of a sloped roof?
Various factors can influence the price of a sloped roof:
Pitch of the roof
Number of gables
Complexity
Materials chosen
Quality of the materials
Warranty
Surface area
Additional work (such as replacing or adding ventilation)
Repairs needed to support the roof
Skill and experience of the roofers
What is the cost of a shingle roof in 2026?
Asphalt shingles are a common choice for roof replacement, mainly because of their affordable cost, which is often lower than other materials. Expect to pay at least $7/sq. ft., which translates to a minimum of $7,000 for a standard bungalow. Their wide range of colours, finishes and styles also makes them very popular, allowing homeowners to change the look of their house.
When it comes to durability, the actual lifespan depends on several factors, including shingle quality, climate conditions, installation and maintenance. In general, a standard shingle roof lasts between 15 and 25 years. Some manufacturers advertise lifetime warranties for their premium products, but these are limited and conditional on proper installation and adequate ventilation, among other requirements.
That said, proper attic ventilation is essential to extend the life of shingles. It helps reduce heat in summer, limit moisture buildup, and prevent ice formation in winter. Without ventilation, intense heat can sometimes dry out the oils in the asphalt, weakening the material.
An interesting fact: next-generation shingles, which are enhanced with technologies like fibreglass, are designed to better resist UV rays and harsh weather. However, their long-term performance over several decades remains to be seen.
What is the cost of a metal roof in 2026?
Metal is known for being extremely durable: its lifespan can exceed 50 years! Like asphalt shingles, metal roofs offer a wide variety of colours and styles. You can even repaint the metal to refresh its appearance. In short, metal is appealing for its easy maintenance, recyclability and longevity, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly choice.
There are two drawbacks to consider:
The sound of rain or hail, which can be noticeable without proper insulation
The installation cost, which is generally higher than shingles
The price of a metal roof can vary from $20 to $36/sq. ft., which is about $40,000 to $72,000 for a roof with an area of about 1,000 to 1,500 sq. ft.
Costs of flat roofs
You can find flat roofs on commercial buildings and multi-unit dwellings, and increasingly, on modern homes. They offer a sleek style and allow for additional spaces such as patios or gardens. However, their design and maintenance differ from sloped roofs, which affects their cost and durability. Here are two types of flat roofs, including their features and average prices.
What is the cost of a TPO or EPDM roof in 2026?
Among the options for flat roofs are TPO and EPDM roofs (thermoplastic polyolefin and ethylene propylene diene monomer). These roofs are covered with a synthetic rubber that’s highly resistant to UV rays and winter cold. They offer good moisture protection and impressive longevity. On average, a TPO roof lasts between 20 and 30 years, while an EPDM roof can last 25 to 35 years with proper maintenance.
TPO is notable for its white reflective surface, which reduces heat absorption from the sun and helps limit urban heat islands. It’s also considered less polluting. However, it’s single-ply, which can make it vulnerable to tears and joint wear over time. Since installing it requires specialized expertise, the cost can be between $13 and $18/sq. ft.
EPDM, on the other hand, is known for its flexibility and strength, making it a durable option. It generally costs the same as TPO, or sometimes slightly cheaper.
What is the cost of elastomeric roofing in 2026?
Elastomeric roofing is a favourite choice in Canada, in part because it can be installed almost year-round. It’s two-ply, particularly robust and generally requires little maintenance. Its lifespan can be 25 to 35 years.
Note that installation requires specialists and carries a risk of fire. Elastomer is made of bitumen, so it’s not particularly eco-friendly and cannot be recycled in Quebec. It costs around $18 to $23/sq. ft.
If a price is too good to be true—it usually is!
Can a low price be tempting? Absolutely! But take your time before settling on a roofer. Compare quotes, ask questions and make sure everything is clear before signing the contract. If an offer seems too good to be true, it deserves a closer look.
How to find a reliable roofer
Of course, you can ask for references from people you know and check whether they’re happy with the work that was done. However, make sure these recommendations involve the same type of materials and roofing you want installed on your property, since not everyone in the trade has the same specialties.
Another option: turn to the RenoAssistance team to simplify your roof replacement process. We can recommend up to three qualified roofers in your area, carefully selected based on your project and specific needs.
Our service uses a network of contractors verified according to strict criteria (licences, insurance, background checks, quality of work). You’ll get quotes to compare, so you can choose the one that suits you best without having to spend time searching on your own.
