Replacing a roof in New Jersey protects your home from snow, coastal storms, high winds, and humidity while enhancing value and meeting codes. Costs average $6-$9/sq ft for architectural asphalt shingles, $9-$17/sq ft for metal, $12-$21/sq ft for tiles, $7-$15/sq ft for flat roof materials, $11-$20/sq ft for cedar shingles/shakes, $15-$30/sq ft for natural slate, and $19-$27/sq ft for Timberline solar shingles, varying by size, style, complexity, and region.
NJ’s climate—snow in North Jersey, hurricanes along the Jersey Shore, humidity in Central NJ, and wind statewide—shapes styles under the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code (NJUCC), aligned with IRC 2021. Real estate trends, insurance costs, climate shifts, and historical weather events (e.g., Superstorm Sandy 2012, Hurricane Ida 2021) drive demand.
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This guide covers costs, materials, ventilation, deck condition, underlayment, regional pricing, storm impacts, real estate dynamics, roof shapes, sizes, warranties, financing, regulations, contractor tips, compliance, maintenance, and FAQs—your ultimate NJ roofing resource.
How Much Does It Cost in New Jersey?
Asphalt leads (60%+ market share), with metal, tiles, flat roofs, cedar, slate, and solar growing.
Per Square Foot
- Architectural Asphalt: $6-$9/sq ft (130-150 MPH).
- High-Cost Areas with Complexity: Up to $10.50/sq ft in North Jersey/Philly suburbs (10-20% bump).
- Metal: $9-$17/sq ft (150-175 MPH).
- Tiles: $12-$21/sq ft (150-175 MPH).
- Flat Roof Materials: $7-$15/sq ft (130-150 MPH).
- Cedar Shingles/Shakes: $11-$20/sq ft (110-130 MPH, weatherproofing key).
- Natural Slate: $15-$30/sq ft (150-175 MPH).
- Solar: $19-$27/sq ft (150 MPH).
Average Roof Replacement Cost:
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Low End
$7,500Mid-Range
$10,500High End
$14,500 |
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See costs in your area
Total Cost Examples by Popular Roof Sizes and Material
| Roof Size (sq ft) | Asphalt (GAF Timberline HDZ) | Metal (McElroy Standing Seam) | Tiles (Boral Clay) | Flat Roof (TPO) | Cedar (Maibec Shingles) | Slate (Vermont Slate) | Solar (GAF Timberline Solar) |
| 1,800 | $10,800-$16,200 | $16,200-$30,600 | $21,600-$37,800 | $12,600-$27,000 | $19,800-$36,000 | $27,000-$54,000 | $34,200-$48,600 |
| 2,000 | $12,000-$18,000 | $18,000-$34,000 | $24,000-$42,000 | $14,000-$30,000 | $22,000-$40,000 | $30,000-$60,000 | $38,000-$54,000 |
| 2,200 | $13,200-$19,800 | $19,800-$37,400 | $26,400-$46,200 | $15,400-$33,000 | $24,200-$44,000 | $33,000-$66,000 | $41,800-$59,400 |
| 2,500 | $15,000-$22,500 | $22,500-$42,500 | $30,000-$52,500 | $17,500-$37,500 | $27,500-$50,000 | $37,500-$75,000 | $47,500-$67,500 |
| 3,000 | $18,000-$27,000 ($21,000-$31,500 high-cost) | $27,000-$51,000 | $36,000-$63,000 | $21,000-$45,000 | $33,000-$60,000 | $45,000-$90,000 | $57,000-$81,000 |
| 3,500 | $21,000-$31,500 ($24,500-$36,750 high-cost) | $31,500-$59,500 | $42,000-$73,500 | $24,500-$52,500 | $38,500-$70,000 | $52,500-$105,000 | $66,500-$94,500 |
New Shingle Roof
$7,500 Average price |
New Metal Roof
$14,500 Average price |
New Flat Roof
$8,225 Average price |
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Notes:
- Roof Sizes: Reflect NJ norms—1,800 sq ft (Cape Cod), 2,000-2,200 sq ft (ranch), 2,500 sq ft (colonial), 3,000-3,500 sq ft (suburban). Costs assume moderate complexity (4:12 pitch) and basic ventilation.
- Complexity: Steep slopes (6:12+), dormers, or valleys add 10-20% ($0.60-$1.80/sq ft for asphalt, $1-$3/sq ft for others). Flat roofs with parapets/HVAC add $1-$2/sq ft (NJUCC R905.11). Cedar installation complexity (e.g., hand-nailing, weatherproofing) can push costs to $20/sq ft.
- Accessibility: Two-story or tight lots (e.g., Jersey City) add 10-20% ($500-$2,000); rural South Jersey increases disposal/travel ($200-$800).
- Ventilation: Adds $300-$1,500 (e.g., $0.25-$1/sq ft for ridge vents).
What’s Included in the Price?
- Tear-Off: $1-$2/sq ft extra for >2 layers.
- Disposal: $0.40-$0.90/sq ft ($720-$1,620 for 1,800 sq ft asphalt, $1,200-$2,700 for 3,000 sq ft). Rural: $600-$900; urban: $1,200-$2,500. Two-story adds $200-$500.
- Materials:
- Shingles/Metal/Tiles/Flat/Cedar/Slate/Solar: Asphalt (130-150 MPH), metal/tiles/slate (150-175 MPH), cedar (110-130 MPH), flat (130-150 MPH).
- Underlayment: Felt ($0.20-$0.50/sq ft), synthetic ($0.50-$1/sq ft), self-adhered ($1-$2/sq ft).
- Flashings: $300-$600 (NJUCC R905.2.8).
- Ventilation: Ridge vents ($0.25-$1/sq ft), soffit vents ($0.50-$1/sq ft), gable vents ($50-$150 each), turbines ($100-$300 each), attic fans ($200-$500 each)—NJUCC R806.2 mandates 1:150 ratio.
- Labor: $2.50-$5/sq ft (higher in North Jersey).
- Permits: $150-$600 (e.g., Jersey Shore post-Sandy rules).
- Roof Deck: Spot repairs ($2-$4/sq ft, typically in quote); full replacement ($1-$2/sq ft, ½-inch plywood/OSB, NJUCC R503.2).
Factors That Affect Costs in New Jersey
- Slope/Complexity/Height: 10-20% increase.
- Deck Condition/Ventilation: Adds $300-$1,500 (deck replacement $1-$2/sq ft).
- Location/Real Estate: See table.
NJ Regional Cost Variations (Per Sq Ft, Asphalt, 130 MPH)
| Region | Cost Range | Material Trends | Notes |
| North (Bergen/Passaic) | $7-$10.50 | Asphalt, metal, slate (snow/wind). | High labor costs, snow drives demand. |
| Central (Trenton/Middlesex) | $6.50-$9 | Asphalt, tiles, cedar (style). | Moderate costs, humidity focus. |
| South (Jersey Shore) | $7-$10.50 | Metal, flat, cedar (wind). | Coastal storms sustain demand. |
| West (Hunterdon) | $6-$8.50 | Asphalt, cedar (cost-effective). | Rural, lower labor costs. |
| East (Monmouth) | $6.50-$9.50 | Asphalt, metal, slate (wind/snow). | Mixed suburban/coastal demand. |
Average Roof Replacement Cost:
|
Low End
$7,500Mid-Range
$10,500High End
$14,500 |
|
|
Overlay vs. Tear-Off
Overlays save $1-$2/sq ft but are rare—NJUCC R907.3 and NJ insurers favor tear-offs.
Is It Worth It in New Jersey?
Yes. Asphalt ($6-$9/sq ft) lasts 20-30 years; metal ($9-$17/sq ft), tiles ($12-$21/sq ft), cedar ($11-$20/sq ft), slate ($15-$30/sq ft), and flat roofs ($7-$15/sq ft) 20-150+ years; solar ($19-$27/sq ft) 25-30 years. Historical storms prove value:
- Superstorm Sandy (2012): $8B damage, coastal wind/flood (Jersey Shore).
- Hurricane Ida (2021): $1.5B damage, inland flooding (North/Central NJ).
- 2016 Nor’easter: Heavy snow, roof collapses (North Jersey).
Choosing Your Material in New Jersey
- Asphalt: $6-$9/sq ft. 20-30 years, 130-150 MPH.
- Metal: $9-$17/sq ft. 50-100+ years, 150-175 MPH.
- Tiles: $12-$21/sq ft. 50-70 years, 150-175 MPH.
- Flat Roof Materials: $7-$15/sq ft. 20-50 years, 130-150 MPH.
- Cedar Shingles/Shakes: $11-$20/sq ft. 20-50 years, 110-130 MPH (Maibec, CSSB suppliers).
- Natural Slate: $15-$30/sq ft. 75-150+ years, 150-175 MPH (Vermont Slate Co., Evergreen Slate).
- Solar: $19-$27/sq ft. 25-30 years, 150 MPH (S-5 clamps on standing seam or GAF Timberline solar roofing tiles).
Hiring a Contractor in New Jersey
- Ask Around: Seek storm experience (e.g., Sandy, Ida).
- Screen: Confirm NJUCC knowledge, warranty offers.
- Estimates: 3-5 bids—specify ventilation, deck needs.
- Verify: NJ Division of Consumer Affairs licensing, insurance.
Key Considerations in New Jersey
- Roof Deck: NJUCC R907.3 requires sound decking—spot repairs ($2-$4/sq ft); full replacement ($1-$2/sq ft).
- Ventilation Options: NJUCC R806.1 mandates 1:150 ratio (e.g., 12 sq ft net free area for 1,800 sq ft roof). Prevents snowmelt ice dams (North Jersey), humidity rot (Central NJ):
- Ridge Vents: $0.25-$1/sq ft ($450-$1,800 for 1,800 sq ft).
- Soffit Vents: $0.50-$1/sq ft ($900-$1,800 for 1,800 sq ft).
- Gable Vents: $50-$150 each ($100-$600 total).
- Turbines: $100-$300 each ($200-$900 for 2,000 sq ft).
- Attic Fans: $200-$500 each ($200-$1,000 for 2,500 sq ft).
- Underlayment: Self-adhered ($1-$2/sq ft) for wind/snow zones (NJDEP).
- Weight Load: Tiles/slate/cedar need checks ($300-$800), key for snow (North Jersey).
- Roof Shapes: Gable (North/West), hip (South/Central), flat (urban)—impact ventilation.
- HOA/Local Regulations: HOAs (e.g., Princeton) mandate muted tones, restrict solar. Jersey Shore requires 150 MPH post-Sandy; Newark may mandate full replacement if >25% damaged pre-2006 NJUCC.
- Attic Insulation: Pair with R-49 insulation (NJ Energy Code) for 15-25% savings.
- Post-Install Inspection: Verify 6-nail patterns (NJUCC R905.2.7), flashing (2-4 inches), vent functionality.
Warranties for NJ Roofs
- Material Warranties:
- Asphalt: 20-50 years (GAF Timberline HDZ, no hail/snow coverage).
- Metal: 30-50 years (McElroy, rust/paint coverage).
- Stone-Coated Steel: 50-70 years (Tilcor Antica, hail to 2.5 inches).
- Tiles: 50-100 years (Boral Clay, wind/snow included).
- Flat Roofs: 20-30 years (TPO/PVC), 30-50 years (EPDM), wind/snow often covered.
- Cedar: 20-30 years (Maibec, weatherproofing critical, no standard hail/snow).
- Slate: 75-150 years (Vermont Slate Co., wind/snow included).
- Solar: 25-30 years (GAF Timberline Solar, wind/snow; S-5 clamp systems vary by panel).
- Labor Warranties: 5-10 years, 25 years with certified installers (e.g., GAF Master Elite).
- NJ Context: Snow/wind favor stone-coated steel, slate, or metal over asphalt/cedar.
Financing and Incentives in New Jersey
- Financing:
- Loans: 5-7% APR, $5,000-$50,000 (e.g., LightStream).
- HELOCs: 6-8% APR (e.g., 2,000 sq ft asphalt: $12,000-$18,000).
- Contractor Plans: 0% APR for 12-18 months, then 10-15%.
- Incentives:
- Federal Solar ITC: 30% credit ($10,260-$16,380 for 1,800 sq ft solar).
- NJ Clean Energy: Up to $500 for cool roofs/ventilation, $0.25/kWh solar credits (PSE&G).
- Insurance Discounts: 10-30% premium cuts for NJUCC roofs (NJ DOI).
Quality and Code Compliance in New Jersey
NJUCC 2021 (130 MPH minimum, ASCE 7-16) applies; Jersey Shore’s 150 MPH post-Sandy reflects risk. Snow/wind drive Class 4 asphalt/metal adoption.
Wind/Snow Mitigation Credits
NJUCC-compliant ventilation/materials cut premiums 10-30% ($300-$1,500/year), per NJ DOI.
Maintaining Your New Roof in New Jersey
Clear debris ($0.05-$0.10/sq ft), treat algae ($0.10-$0.25/sq ft), inspect vents post-storm (e.g., Ida floods). Cedar needs weatherproofing ($2-$5/sq ft).
Energy and Eco Benefits in New Jersey
Cool roofs/ventilation save 10-20%; solar adds $0.20-$0.60/sq ft/year, 30% ITC ($10,800-$23,400).
Real Estate Market Impact on Roofing Demand
Inventory up 20% YoY, price softening (e.g., Bergen: -2%) reduces upgrades; storm zones (Jersey Shore, North Jersey) sustain replacements.
Climate Change and Roofing
NOAA projects 15-25% more snow/wind by 2030, favoring metal/tiles/slate over asphalt/cedar.
Rural vs. Urban Roofing
- Rural: Asphalt/cedar ($6-$20/sq ft), gable, ridge/soffit vents (Hunterdon).
- Urban: Metal/tiles/flat ($7-$17/sq ft), hip/flat, turbines/attic fans (Newark).
FAQs for New Jersey
- How long does it take? Asphalt/cedar: 1-3 days (1,800 sq ft) to 5-7 days (3,500 sq ft); metal/tiles/slate/flat: 3-7 days; solar: 5-10 days.
- When should I replace? Asphalt: 15-20 years if snow dents/shingles lift; cedar: 20-30 years if rot/splitting; slate/metal/tiles/flat: 20-150+ years unless cracked; solar: 25-30 years if output drops.
- Best time to replace? Late spring (May-Jun) avoids snow (North Jersey), hurricanes (Jersey Shore), humidity (Central NJ).
- Lifespan? Asphalt 20-30 years, cedar 20-50 years, slate 75-150+ years, metal/tiles/flat 20-100+ years, solar 25-30 years—ventilation extends all by 5-10 years.
- Ventilation needs? 1:150 ratio (NJUCC R806.1); ridge/soffit for gable/hip, turbines for flat.
- DIY risks? Saves $2-$5/sq ft but risks NJUCC violations, snow hazards, voided warranties.
- How much does ventilation add? $300-$1,500 (e.g., $450-$1,800 for 1,800 sq ft ridge/soffit).
- Spot repairs vs. full deck replacement? Spot ($2-$4/sq ft) vs. full ($1-$2/sq ft during tear-off).
- Cheapest option? Asphalt ($6-$9/sq ft) with gable, ridge vents—$10,800-$16,200 for 1,800 sq ft.
- Most durable option? Slate (Vermont Slate Co., $15-$30/sq ft, 75-150+ years) or metal (McElroy, $9-$17/sq ft, 50-100+ years).
- Are warranties worth it? Yes—stone-coated steel/slate/metal cover snow/wind; asphalt/cedar exclude hail/snow.
- How do I file an insurance claim? Document damage (post-Ida photos), file within 1 year (NJ DOI), get NJUCC bids—60-80% coverage for 15+ year roofs.
- Will insurance cover full replacement? Yes, if >25-50% damaged (Newark/Jersey Shore) or total loss (e.g., Sandy).
- How do premiums change? Up 40% since 2018 (NJ DOI); NJUCC roofs cut 10-30% ($300-$1,500/year).
- What’s the 25% rule? No statewide mandate; Newark/Jersey Shore may require full replacement if >25% damaged pre-2006 NJUCC.
- HOA restrictions? Princeton/Monmouth mandate muted tones, restrict solar; rural West NJ freer.
- Can I negotiate costs? Yes—bundle ventilation/deck work, get 3-5 bids, ask for off-season discounts (Nov-Dec).
- What’s the ROI? 65-75% for asphalt, 85-95% for metal/tiles/slate in storm zones.
- How do I spot a bad contractor? No license, vague bids—verify via NJ Division of Consumer Affairs.
- What’s the warranty process? Register material warranty, keep labor contract—file claims with photos (e.g., snow >20 lbs/sq ft).
- Solar benefits worth it? Yes—$0.20-$0.60/sq ft/year + 30% ITC ($10,260-$16,380 for 1,800 sq ft).
- Flat roof maintenance? Check seams ($0.10-$0.25/sq ft recoating), clear drains—vital post-Ida.
- Snow damage signs? Dents >1 inch (asphalt), cracked tiles/slate, bent metal—inspect post-2016 nor’easters.
- Wind damage signs? Lifted shingles (Jersey Shore), missing flashing—check post-Sandy.
- How do I choose underlayment? Self-adhered ($1-$2/sq ft) for wind/snow; synthetic ($0.50-$1/sq ft) for cost; felt ($0.20-$0.50/sq ft) for budget.
- Does roof shape affect cost? Yes—gable cheapest, hip adds 10-20%, flat needs waterproofing ($1-$2/sq ft).
- What’s the ice dam risk? High in North Jersey—ventilation/insulation (R-49) prevents; asphalt/cedar most vulnerable.
- How do I prep for install? Clear yard, cover plants, notify neighbors—expect noise/dust (3-7 days).
- Post-install checklist? Verify 6-nail patterns, flashing (2-4 inches), vent flow—request township inspection.
- How does climate change affect choice? More snow/wind (NOAA 2030) favors metal/tiles/slate.
Quick Material Comparison (Per Sq Ft, NJ)
| Material | Cost | Lifespan | Wind Resistance | Key Features & Considerations | Colors & SRI | Roof Shape Fit |
| Architectural Asphalt (GAF Timberline HDZ) | $6-$9 | 20-30 yrs | 130-150 MPH | Budget-friendly, snow/wind-vulnerable (North Jersey). No hail/snow warranty—post-Ida issues. | Earthy (SRI 20-40); cool (SRI 60-70). | Gable (North/West), hip (South). |
| Composite Shingles (CertainTeed Landmark Pro) | $6.50-$9.50 | 30-50 yrs | 130-150 MPH | Synthetic, mimics slate. Moderate snow resistance (Monmouth winds). No hail warranty. | Slate gray, cedar (SRI 25-50). | Gable (East), hip (Central). |
| Stone-Coated Steel Tiles (Tilcor Antica) | $11-$17 | 50-70 yrs | 150-175 MPH | Lightweight (1.5-2 lbs/sq ft), hail-resistant (2.5-inch warranty, North Jersey). Wind-strong (Jersey Shore). | Terracotta, charcoal (SRI 30-60). | Hip (South), flat (Central). |
| Clay Tiles (Boral Clay) | $12-$21 | 50-100 yrs | 150-175 MPH | Heavy (10-12 lbs/sq ft), needs check ($300-$800). Wind/snow-resistant (Central/South). | Red, beige (SRI 35-60). | Hip (Central/South), mansard (East). |
| Metal Shingle Roofs (McElroy Max-Rib) | $11-$17 | 50-100+ yrs | 175 MPH | Interlocks, snow/wind-resistant (North/South). Low maintenance. Wind warranty, hail varies. | Green, blue (SRI 50-80). | Gable (North/East), hip (South). |
| Standing Seam Metal (McElroy) | $11-$19 | 50-100+ yrs | 175 MPH | Vertical panels, solar integration via S-5 clamps (no holes). Snow/wind-resistant. Full wind/hail warranty. | White, silver (SRI 70-90). | Hip (South), flat (Central). |
| Cedar Shingles/Shakes (Maibec) | $11-$20 | 20-50 yrs | 110-130 MPH | Natural aesthetic (Jersey Shore), needs weatherproofing ($2-$5/sq ft). Rot/split risk (Central NJ humidity). | Natural cedar (SRI 30-50). | Gable (West), hip (South). |
| Natural Slate (Vermont Slate Co.) | $15-$30 | 75-150+ yrs | 150-175 MPH | Heavy (8-10 lbs/sq ft), premium durability (North Jersey snow). Needs check ($300-$800). Historic appeal. | Black, green, purple (SRI 20-40). | Gable (North), hip (East). |
| Solar Shingles (GAF Timberline Solar) | $19-$27 | 25-30 yrs | 150 MPH | Nailable shingles, aesthetic. High cost, wind/snow warranty (Central NJ energy focus). | Black, dark blends (SRI 20-30). | Flat (Central), hip (South). |
| PVC (Firestone) | $8-$13 | 20-30 yrs | 130-150 MPH | Single-ply, heat-welded. Jersey Shore flat roofs, wind/snow warranty. | White, gray (SRI 70-90). | Flat (Central/South). |
| TPO (GAF EverGuard) | $7-$12 | 20-30 yrs | 130-150 MPH | Single-ply, reflective. Trenton flat roofs, wind/snow warranty. | White, tan (SRI 70-85). | Flat (Central/South). |
| EPDM Rubber (Firestone RubberGard) | $8-$13 | 30-50 yrs | 130-150 MPH | Durable, flexible. Central NJ humidity, wind/snow warranty. | Black (SRI 10-20); white (SRI 70-80). | Flat (South/Central). |
| Modified Bitumen (CertainTeed) | $9-$15 | 20-40 yrs | 130-150 MPH | Multi-layer, torch-down. Newark flat roofs, wind/snow warranty. | Black, gray (SRI 20-40); reflective (SRI 60-70). | Flat (North/South). |
Average Roof Replacement Cost:
|
Low End
$7,500Mid-Range
$10,500High End
$14,500 |
|
|
Bottom Line
An NJ roof replacement costs $6-$9/sq ft for asphalt (up to $10.50/sq ft in high-cost areas), $9-$17/sq ft for metal, $12-$21/sq ft for tiles, $7-$15/sq ft for flat roofs, $11-$20/sq ft for cedar, $15-$30/sq ft for slate, and $19-$27/sq ft for solar. Ventilation ($300-$1,500), deck replacement ($1-$2/sq ft), warranties (e.g., stone-coated steel’s hail coverage), and financing (loans, ITC) shape decisions. NJ’s snow, wind, and humidity demand tailored solutions—NJUCC compliance (130-175 MPH) ensures durability.
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