How Much Does a New Roof Cost?

A new roof typically costs around $10,000 for smaller homes and can climb well into five figures for larger or more complex roofs. The exact number depends on your home, roof design, and what’s happening beneath the shingles.

The most important thing to understand is this: any roof price given without a full inspection is just an estimate, not a real number.

Key takeaway: There is no honest “one-size-fits-all” roof price — a real number only comes from a full roofing assessment.

Key Takeaways

• Average Cost Range: Most residential roof replacements in Columbus, Ohio range from $10,000 to $25,000, though custom homes can exceed this based on square footage and complexity.
• Local Climate Factors: Estimates must account for Ohio’s freeze-thaw cycles; proper ice and water shielding and ridge ventilation are non-negotiable for local building codes.
• Hidden Cost Drivers: The three biggest variables in a roofing estimate are the number of existing shingle layers, the condition of the plywood decking, and the steepness (pitch) of the roof.
• Insurance vs. Out-of-Pocket: While age-related wear is an out-of-pocket expense, storm-related hail or wind damage may be covered by homeowners insurance, significantly reducing the homeowner's cost.
• Accuracy Warning: Online roofing calculators often miss local permit fees and disposal costs; a physical inspection is the only way to get a "firm" price in the 43215 or surrounding zip codes.

One of the first questions homeowners ask me is, “How much does a new roof cost?” And I understand why — replacing a roof isn’t a small decision, and most people want clarity before they move forward.

The challenge is that roofing prices aren’t flat-rate. While I can give general ranges, the only way to get an honest price is through a proper roof assessment, not a phone quote or online calculator.

What Is the Average Price to Replace a Roof in Columbus, Ohio?

In Central Ohio, most roof replacements fall into two broad ranges:

Smaller, simpler roofs:

Around $10,000.

Larger or more complex roofs:

well into the five-figure range.

Homes with steep pitches, multiple rooflines, or hidden issues underneath the shingles tend to land on the higher end.

“A lot of people want a quick number over the phone, but those numbers just aren’t accurate. A real price starts with getting on the roof.” - Will Price

How Much Does a New Roof Cost Based on Home Size?

While every roof is different, size plays a big role.

Smaller homes roof cost

• Simpler roof layouts
• Fewer penetrations and valleys
• Often start around $10,000

Medium to larger homes new roof cost

• More surface area and materials
• Steeper slopes and multiple sections
• Costs increase quickly with complexity

Large or custom home roof replacement costs

• Multiple roof planes and transitions
• Higher labor and safety requirements
• Pricing can move well into five figures

“Two homes can be the same square footage and still have completely different roof costs. The layout matters more than most people think.”

What Factors Affect Your Columbus Roof Replacement Cost the Most?

The biggest price differences usually come from what homeowners can’t see from the driveway. When calculating your new roof cost, we look at these four critical variables:

1. Roof Pitch and Complexity

A "walkable" ranch-style roof is much cheaper than a steep, multi-gabled Tudor. Steeper pitches require specialized safety equipment and significantly more labor hours. If your roof has multiple valleys, dormers, or chimneys, the labor cost for roof replacement will increase accordingly.

2. Decking Condition and Wood Rot

If the plywood "decking" under your shingles is soft or rotted, it must be replaced to ensure a structural seal. In Central Ohio, we often find rotted decking near gutters due to ice damming. This is a "hidden cost" that won't be known until the old shingles are torn off.

3. Ventilation and Attic Insulation

Proper airflow is vital for the longevity of your shingles. Poor ventilation doesn't just bake your roof in the summer; it can void your manufacturer's warranty. We assess your soffit vents and ridge vents to ensure your roofing estimate includes a system that meets 2026 building codes.

4. Existing Layers and Tear-Off Fees

Does your home have two layers of shingles? Ohio building codes typically require a full tear-off down to the wood. More layers mean more weight, more labor to remove, and higher disposal fees at local Columbus landfills.

"The condition of the decking and the ventilation system are the two biggest factors that turn a 'cheap' estimate into an expensive headache later." — Will Price

What Should You Look for in a Roofing Estimate?

A good roofing estimate should feel clear, not confusing.

A solid roof estimate should explain:

• Materials being used
• Scope of tear-off and replacement
• How decking issues are handled
• Ventilation plan
• Cleanup and warranty details

Red flags to watch for

• One-line estimates
• No mention of decking or ventilation
• Prices given without climbing on the roof

If it’s not explained, it’s probably not included.

Why Local Roofing Costs Matter in Central Ohio

Homes in Columbus, Pickerington, and surrounding areas deal with:

• Freeze-thaw cycles
• Wind and storm exposure
• Older construction with hidden issues

That’s why working with a local Columbus roofing contractor matters. We understand the conditions, building styles, and common problems specific to Central Ohio homes.

FAQ: Columbus Roof Replacement & Pricing

How much does a new roof cost in Columbus, OH?

While every home is unique, most Columbus roof replacement costs range between $10,000 and $25,000. The final price depends on the "square" count (100 sq. ft. areas), the material grade (3-prong vs. architectural shingles), and the complexity of the roofline.

Does homeowners insurance pay for a new roof?

Insurance generally covers roof replacement if the damage is caused by a specific event, such as hail damage or high wind storms. They typically do not cover "wear and tear" due to age. We recommend a professional inspection to see if your roof qualifies for an insurance claim.

How long does it take to replace a roof?

Most residential roof replacements in the Columbus area are completed in 1–2 days. We aim for a "minimal disruption" process, ensuring your yard is clean and nail-free by the time we leave.

Can I get a roofing quote online or over the phone?

You can get a "ballpark" estimate using satellite tools, but an honest roofing quote requires a physical inspection. We need to check the decking, flashing, and ventilation—things a satellite image simply can't see.

The only way to know where your home falls is through a proper inspection by a contractor who’s willing to get on the roof and explain what they find.

If you’re ready for real answers — not guesses — we’re here to help.

Schedule a free roof inspection with Price Brothers Restoration, and we’ll walk you through your options with honesty and zero pressure.

📞 Call (614) 512-4530