If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve been staring at your roof lately and thinking, “Hmm, maybe it’s time.” Or worse, you’ve already spotted some leaks or missing shingles.

Either way, replacing a roof is a big deal. Not just because it’s a huge chunk of your house, but also because it can be pretty expensive.

In this post, we’ll break down our roof replacement costs in Minnesota.

Plus, we’ll also go over how much it costs to replace a roof on average, and the main factors that affect the total cost, so you can get a better idea of what to expect.

Our Minnesota Roof Replacement Prices

Our roof replacements cost around $15,000 to $30,000 for an average-sized home. The price depends on the size of your roof, how complex the job is, and what materials you choose.

Here’s what’s included in the installation:

• Tearing off and hauling away the old roof
• Checking for damage and making any necessary repairs to the roof deck
• Installing a high-quality underlayment for extra protection
• Putting on new shingles or other roofing materials of your choice
• Adding proper flashing and ventilation to make your roof last longer
• A full cleanup when we’re done

We install strong, long-lasting roofs that can handle Minnesota’s tough weather.

Contact us for a FREE quote, and we’ll give you a clear price based on your roof.

Also Check Out Our: Twin Cities Roof Replacements Services

How Much Does Roof Replacement Cost?

Roof replacement costs about $6000 – $30000 in Minnesota.

Generally speaking, about 40% of the cost is for materials, and the other 60% goes to labor. So, the size of your roof and what kind of material you go with will have the biggest impact on price.

Here’s a rough idea based on roof size:

• 1,000 sq. ft.: $4,500 to $11,000
• 1,500 sq. ft.: $7,000 to $15,000
• 2,000 sq. ft.: $9,000 to $22,000
• 2,500 sq. ft.: $11,000 to $27,000

These are just ballpark figures, as the exact price will depend on a number of things which we’ll go over shortly. To get an exact estimate, it’s always best to get a few quotes from local contractors.

Factors That Affect The Cost Of Roof Replacements

There are a lot of factors that can influence the total price. Some of these are pretty straightforward, while others are a bit more unexpected.

Here are the main factors that affect the cost of replacing a roof in Minnesota:

#1 Roof Size

This one’s pretty obvious: the bigger the roof, the higher the cost.

If you have a large home, you’re going to need more materials, and the labor cost will also go up because it’ll take longer to do the job. Smaller homes will obviously cost less.

Also Read: How Much Does A Roof Inspection Cost?

#2 Roof Pitch

Ever noticed how some roofs are almost flat while others are super steep? That’s the pitch—and it matters a lot for pricing.

Steep roofs are harder to work on. They require extra safety equipment, more labor, and often take longer to complete. A roof with a pitch greater than 7:12 (meaning it rises 7 inches for every 12 horizontal inches) might cost 25-30% more than a gentler slope.

So, the steeper the roof, the higher the labor cost.

Many homes in Minnesota have steeper pitches to help shed snow, so this is something to keep in mind when budgeting.

#3 Roof Material

The material you choose for your new roof has a huge effect on your roof replacement cost.

Here’s a quick rundown of the most common options in Minnesota:

• Asphalt shingles: $3.50-$8.50 per square foot installed. The most popular choice due to affordability and decent lifespan (15-30 years).
• Metal roofing: $6.00 – $35.00 per square foot installed. Lasts 40-70 years and stands up great to Minnesota snow.
• Cedar shakes: $6 – $15.00 per square foot installed. Beautiful but requires more maintenance.

If you decide to go with a more premium material, like slate or tile, it can cost around $15-$30 per square foot, but it can last a long time (75+ years!), and it looks really good!

Also Read: 1/2 Or 5/8 Roof Sheathing?

#4 Removing The Old Roof

You’ll probably need to have the old roof torn off before the new one can go up. And tearing off and disposing of your existing roof isn’t free.

Expect to pay $1-$2 per square foot just for removal.

Multiple layers will cost more. Some homes in Minnesota have had layer upon layer added over the decades to avoid complete replacements—we’ve seen homes with three or four layers that cost significantly more to tear off.

The disposal costs add up too. Dumpster rental and landfill fees usually run $500 – $1,000 depending on roof size and material.

Ask your contractor if removal is included in the price or if it’s an additional charge.

Some roofing companies might offer “tear-off” as part of the initial price, while others will add it as a separate cost.

#5 Roof Underlayment

Underlayment is the layer of material placed under your roof shingles that acts as a barrier against water and weather.

There are a few different types of underlayment materials, and the cost of the material can affect how much it costs to replace a roof in Minnesota too.

Standard felt underlayment costs around $0.20 per square foot, but synthetic or ice-and-water shield (crucial for Minnesota eaves) runs $0.50-$0.80 per square foot.

Many Minnesota roofers now recommend ice-and-water shields on the entire roof too.

That adds cost but provides amazing protection against ice dams—a notorious Minnesota roofing problem.

#6 Roof Features

If your roof has extra features—like skylights, chimneys, or vents—be prepared for those to add to the overall price.

These features require more work and special handling, especially if they need to be replaced or repaired during the roof replacement process.

Skylights, for example, require careful sealing and flashing to prevent leaks, which takes extra time and expertise. The same goes for chimneys or roof vents, which often need to be detached and reattached.

These extra steps will naturally increase the price of the roof replacement.

#7 Accessibility

How easy (or difficult) is it to get to your roof? If you live in a two-story home or your roof is hard to access because of trees, power lines, or other obstacles, the labor costs will likely be higher.

Roofers will need to take extra precautions, and in some cases, may need special equipment like scaffolding or ladders to complete the job.

The more difficult it is to access, the more the job will cost.

#8 Location

Minnesota might be one big state, but prices can vary depending on where you live.

If you’re in a big city like Minneapolis or St. Paul, the cost of roof replacement might be a little higher. Cities tend to have more competition and higher living costs, which can increase the overall cost of services.

On the other hand, if you’re in a more rural area, you might find lower prices.

But you could also have fewer contractors to choose from, which might affect availability or the range of materials offered (though this can flip if the contractor has to travel far).

Also Read: When To Replace Windows

#9 Permits And Inspections

Don’t forget the paperwork! Most Minnesota municipalities require permits for roof replacement.

Permits generally cost anywhere from $50 to $300, depending on your location and the type of work being done. You might also have to schedule an inspection once the job is finished, which could add additional fees.

Make sure you check with your contractor and local authorities about the specific permit requirements for your area.

If permits are required, they will be an additional cost to factor into your overall budget.

Bottom Line

It costs around $6000 – $30,000 to replace a roof in Minnesota.

Replacing a roof isn’t cheap, but it doesn’t have to break the bank either. Knowing what affects the cost can help you plan and budget better.

Start by getting quotes from a few different contractors. Ask questions, compare materials, and don’t be afraid to negotiate. And remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best.

You want a roof that’ll last, especially in a place with four distinct seasons like Minnesota.

Most people don’t think about their roof until there’s a problem. Totally normal.

But in a place like Minnesota, your roof goes through a lot – from heavy snow and ice to summer storms and freezing wind. All that wear and tear adds up over the years.

So if you’re wondering how often you should actually replace your roof, you’re asking a smart question.

The answer depends on the type of roof you have, how old it is, and what kind of shape it’s in.

In this post, we’ll shed some light on how often you should replace your roof.

How Often Should I Replace My Roof?

You should replace your roof every 20 to 40 years, depending on the material and how rough the weather’s been.

Some roofs hold up longer than others, but harsh Minnesota winters can speed things up. Even if your roof looks okay from the street, it might be getting close to the end of its run.

It’s better to replace it on your terms than deal with a surprise leak in the middle of a snowstorm.

Here’s a quick look at how often you should replace each roof type:

Roof Type	When to Replace
Asphalt Shingles	Every 20–25 years
Architectural Asphalt Shingles	Every 25–30 years
Metal Roofing	Every 40–50 years
Cedar Shakes	Every 20–30 years
Composite/Synthetic Shingles	Every 30–40 years

Also Read: How much does it cost to replace a roof?

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are probably the most common roofing material in Minnesota.

They’re affordable and get the job done. On average, asphalt shingles last about 20 to 25 years.

But they can wear out a bit quicker in Minnesota than in milder climates. The freezing and thawing, combined with snow and ice, can speed up the wear and tear.

If you’ve had asphalt shingles for 20 years or so, it’s probably time to start keeping an eye on them. Once you hit the 25-year mark, replacing them might be in your near future.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing has become more popular in Minnesota over the last few years.

It’s known for being super durable and energy-efficient, which is great when you’re dealing with extreme temperature changes.

A metal roof can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years, depending on the type of metal and quality of installation. And you don’t need to replace them unless it’s damaged.

However, just because it lasts a long time doesn’t mean you won’t need maintenance.

Hailstorms, which we get pretty frequently in Minnesota, can damage metal roofing. So even though you’re not replacing it anytime soon, it’s still important to check for dents or other signs of damage.

Cedar Shakes

Cedar shakes give your home that classic, natural look. They’re not as common as asphalt shingles or metal, but they’re still a good choice if you want a rustic vibe.

The lifespan of cedar shakes is around 30 to 40 years.

However, they might not last as long in Minnesota due to the moisture in the air and extreme temperature changes.

Also Read: 1/2 Or 5/8 Roof Sheathing?

Cedar is a natural material, so it can start to degrade faster than man-made materials. It’s also prone to things like mold and mildew, especially if your roof is shaded or surrounded by trees.

You’ll have to replace cedar roofs every 25 years or so, depending on exposure and upkeep.

Composite Or Synthetic Shingles

Composite or synthetic shingles are a newer option, and they’re definitely gaining popularity.

These shingles are designed to look like wood or slate but are made from a combination of materials like plastic, rubber, and fiberglass. They tend to be more durable than traditional shingles, with a lifespan of 30 to 50 years.

Composite shingles hold up pretty well in Minnesota. They’re resistant to things like rot, mold, and mildew, so they’re a good choice for areas with a lot of moisture.

If you have composite shingles, you’ll need to replace them every 35 – 40 years.

Signs You Might Need A Roof Replacement Sooner

Even if you’ve done everything right in terms of regular maintenance and timely repairs, there may come a time when you need to replace your roof earlier than expected.

Sometimes, things just wear out faster than planned.

Here are a few signs that it might be time to start thinking about a roof replacement sooner rather than later:

Also Read: How Much Does A Roof Inspection Cost In Minnesota?

#1 Missing, Curling, Or Cracked Shingles

Take a look at your roof after storms. Do you see shingles that have blown off? Or maybe they’re still there but curling at the edges or cracking?

This is a sign the protective layer of your roof is failing.

Missing shingles create vulnerable spots for water to penetrate. Curling indicates age and weathering. And cracking usually happens from thermal splitting – those dramatic temperature swings we get in Minnesota.

Any of these issues means your shingles are no longer doing their job properly.

Don’t wait on this one. Even a few damaged shingles can lead to bigger problems if its not taken care of quickly.

#2 Ice Dams Forming Regularly

Minnesota winters are brutal. Ice dams happen when heat from your house causes snow on the roof to melt, and then that water refreezes at the edge of the roof.

Over time, this can cause significant damage to your shingles and even the roof’s structure.

If ice dams are forming every winter, it’s a sign that your roof isn’t properly ventilated / insulated.

You might not need a roof replacement immediately, it’s worth addressing this issue before it leads to bigger problems like leaks or mold.

Proper attic insulation and ventilation can help reduce the chances of ice dams forming.

#3 Leaks Or Water Stains On Ceilings

One of the most obvious signs that you need a new roof is when you start seeing water stains or leaks on your ceilings.

This usually means water is getting into your home, and that’s never a good sign. Even small leaks can cause a lot of damage over time, from mold growth to structural issues.

If you’re seeing leaks, you should definitely get a roofer out to assess the situation.

Don’t wait too long to address this! If a leak is happening, it could be a sign that the roof’s protective layer is no longer doing its job.

#4 Sagging Roof Or Visible Mold/Mildew

If your roof starts sagging, or if you notice mold or mildew growing on your roof, those are huge red flags.

A sagging roof can mean that there’s structural damage, and that can be dangerous. Similarly, mold and mildew can spread quickly, especially in Minnesota’s humid summers, and they can weaken your roof.

These signs indicate serious issues that may require a full roof replacement.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to get a professional in to inspect your roof and assess the damage. You don’t want to let these issues go unchecked.

#5 Shingle Granules Showing Up In Gutters

Shingle granules are the small bits that coat your shingles, providing protection from UV rays.

Over time, these granules can start to wear off, and you might notice them accumulating in your gutters. This is a sign that your shingles are starting to break down and lose their effectiveness.

If you’re seeing a lot of granules in your gutters, it could mean your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan.

Also Check Out Our Minnesota Roof Replacement Services

Bottom Line

Most people end up replacing their roof every 20 to 40 years, but that number can swing depending on the material, the maintenance, and the weather it’s been through.

Don’t wait until water’s dripping on your dinner table. Keep an eye on your shingles. Peek inside your attic every now and then.

And if your roof is getting up there in years or showing some of those red flags, it’s probably time to call in a pro and at least get an inspection.

Catching issues early can save you thousands and give you peace of mind.

Planning to have your roof inspected in Minnesota?

If you’re looking to stay on top of maintenance or check for any damage after a rough winter, getting a roof inspection is a smart idea.

But before scheduling an inspection, you might be asking: How much is this going to cost?

In this guide, we’ll break down how much a roof inspection costs in Minnesota and the things that affect the price. Plus, we’ll also break down our roof inspection prices.

Average Roof Inspection Cost In Minnesota

A roof inspection in Minnesota costs around $75 to $600 depending on the kind of inspection you’re after.

For a standard visual check, you’re likely looking at the lower end of that range, but if you’re opting for a more detailed inspection, you might pay a bit more.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the different types:

• Physical roof inspection: $75 – $200
• Drone roof inspections: $100 – $400
• Infrared roof inspections: $400 – $600

Also Read: Gap between window and frame

For most homeowners, this is a small price to pay to catch potential issues before they turn into expensive repairs. It’s especially important in Minnesota, with our harsh winters and unpredictable weather, to stay on top of roof maintenance. 

Even if you’re just doing a routine check-up, it’s a good investment to keep your roof in good shape for years to come.

Our Minnesota Roof Inspection Prices

At Craftsmen Home Improvements, we offer FREE roof inspections for all new clients!!

Our free inspection includes a thorough assessment of your roof’s condition, which will help us determine if it needs repairs, maintenance, or a full replacement.

After the inspection, we’ll provide you with a clear, no-obligation recommendation for the best course of action based on what we find.

No hidden charges – just honest, professional advice to help you make the best choice.

Check Out Our: Roof Inspections

Factors That Affect The Cost Of A Roof Inspection

There are a few things that influence how much you’ll pay for a roof inspection. 

Let’s go over them one by one:

#1 Type Of Roof Inspection

Some roof inspections are pretty basic. You might just need someone to check if there are any obvious problems.

But if you’re dealing with a complicated situation or need a detailed report, the price can rise.

A visual inspection will usually be cheaper, while an in-depth inspection, which includes looking at the attic, insulation, and possibly even using thermal imaging, will cost more. 

You may also pay extra for drone inspections if they’re used to avoid climbing.

#2 Roof Size

The size of your roof is a big deal when it comes to cost. 

A small, simple roof on a single-story home is much easier to inspect than a large, multi-level roof on a bigger house. 

Think about it— a small roof takes less time to check, so it’s cheaper. 

But if your roof has a lot of surface area, or if it’s on a large property, it’s going to take longer for the inspector to go over everything, and that extra time will cost you.

Also, if you have multiple sections to your roof or complex designs, like dormers or extensions, the inspector will need to look over more areas, which can bump the price up. 

Larger roofs just take more work to inspect, and that’s reflected in the cost.

#3 Roof Complexity

A roof’s complexity can seriously affect the cost of your inspection. 

Roofs that are simple and flat are much easier to check than ones with lots of peaks, valleys, and slopes, so they are cheaper.

If your roof has intricate details like skylights, chimneys, or multiple layers, it’s a lot more work for the inspector to go over every part carefully. This usually means a higher price.

And if your roof is particularly old or has any custom features, the inspector may have to spend more time looking for hidden issues.

Also Read: 1/2 Or 5/8 Roof Sheathing?

#4 Roof Accessibility

Accessibility matters too.

If your roof is easy to reach, like a standard sloped roof, the inspection will be quicker and simpler. But for higher or steeper roofs, it takes more effort.

That’s more time, more work, and more money. 

Sometimes, accessibility issues come from the surrounding area. For example, if you have a lot of trees, power lines, or other obstacles around your house, it could take extra time to set up for the inspection. 

This means you might pay a little more to cover the extra prep.

#5 Climate

Minnesota’s weather is definitely a factor to keep in mind when scheduling a roof inspection. 

If you’ve had a long, brutal winter with snow, ice, and freezing temps, the roof inspector will need to take extra care to look for damage. This can be a more involved process, especially if ice dams or snow buildup has caused issues. 

Sometimes, the inspector might even need to remove ice or snow to check certain parts of the roof, and that adds to the cost.

So, depending on the season and recent weather patterns, your cost could increase.

#6 Your Location

Where you live in Minnesota can also affect what you pay for a roof inspection. 

Areas like Minneapolis and St. Paul, which are larger cities, tend to have higher costs for services in general. This is because businesses there have higher overhead costs, like rent, labor, and other expenses. 

So, you might find that inspections are a bit pricier in these areas.

On the flip side, in more rural areas, you might pay less for an inspection, but there’s also a chance that inspectors will have to travel further to get to your place. 

Sometimes that travel time and distance get added to the final price.

Also Read: Can you put new siding over old wood siding

#7 Company Or Inspector

Lastly, the company or inspector you hire will also affect the final price. 

Big companies with a lot of employees and overhead (like office space and marketing) often charge more for their services. 

They might have more resources, but that convenience comes with a higher price tag.

Independent inspectors or smaller companies may be a bit more affordable, but you might not get the same range of services or guarantees that come with larger companies. 

It’s all about balancing price with what’s included in the inspection. 

Just make sure to ask about the services they’ll provide and if there’s any extra cost for things like a detailed report or additional photos.

Wrapping Up

A roof inspection can cost anywhere between $75 and $600 in Minnesota.

But in the end, the exact cost depends on a lot of different factors. From the type of roof to the climate to your location, there are plenty of things that can affect the final price. 

The good news is that roof inspections are generally affordable.

So, if you’re thinking about getting an inspection, don’t let the price throw you off. 

Get a few quotes, ask about the services included, and you’ll be all set! Or if you’re in the Twin Cities, just give Craftsmen Home Improvements a call!

FAQs

How Much Does A Roof Certification Cost In Minnesota?

A roof certification in Minnesota typically costs between $75 – $200. 

The price can vary depending on the size of the roof and the inspector, but it’s generally a one-time fee for the certification.

How Long Does A Roof Inspection Take?

A standard roof inspection in Minnesota usually takes about 45 minutes to 2 hours. The exact time can depend on the size and complexity of your roof.

Are you scratching your head over whether to go with 1/2″ or 5/8″ roof sheathing?

Don’t worry, you’re not alone. It’s a decision that can make a big difference in how your roof holds up over the years, and it’s got a lot of people debating.

But fear not – this post is here to help!

I’ll compare both these sizes and help you nail down the best choice for your situation. 

1/2″ Vs 5/8″ Roof Sheathing 

The main difference between 1/2″ and 5/8″ roof sheathing is that 1/2″ is lighter, cheaper, easier to install, and is great for areas with moderate weather conditions. 

On the other hand, 5/8″ sheathing offers greater strength and durability, better resistance to extreme weather and performs better long-term.

Let me go over these in more detail:

Also Read: Who to call for leaking window

#1 Climate And Weather Conditions

Where you live plays a big part in choosing your roof sheathing thickness. 

If you’re in an area with pretty normal weather, 1/2 sheathing usually does the trick for most homes.

It’ll keep the rain out and stand up to regular winds just fine.

But if you’re in a place that gets hit by nasty weather like hurricanes, tons of snow, or super strong winds, you might want to think about going with 5/8″ sheathing.

It’s tougher and can handle those extreme conditions better. 

For example, lots of folks in central Florida, where hurricanes are a real concern, are choosing 5/8″ to make their roofs stronger and safer.

#2 Roof Pitch And Design

The steepness of your roof and how it’s designed are also important things to think about. 

For roofs that aren’t too steep (think a 6:12 pitch or less), 1/2″ sheathing usually works well, especially if your rafters or trusses are pretty close together (16 inches or less). 

This setup is good enough for most homes in areas without crazy weather.

But if your roof is steeper (more than a 6:12 pitch) or the rafters are further apart (24 inches or more), you might want to go with 5/8″ sheathing. 

It’s stronger and helps keep everything nice and straight. 

This is really important for complicated roof designs with lots of angles and intersections.

Also check out our Roofing Services in Edina

#3 Structural Integrity And Long-Term Performance

5/8″ sheathing offers better long term performance and structural integrity 1/2 sheathing.

It’s less likely to warp or sag as the years go by. 

If you look at older homes, you’ll often notice that the ones with 5/8″ sheathing still have smoother, more even roofs.

Another cool thing about 5/8″ sheathing is that it’s better at holding nails in place. This is super important in windy areas or if you’re using heavier roofing materials. 

The nails can go in deeper, which means they’re less likely to pop out over time. 

While 1/2″ sheathing can still do a good job in many cases, going with 5/8″ might help you sleep better at night knowing your roof is extra sturdy.

#4 Cost And Installation Considerations

1/2″ sheathing is cheaper than 5/8″, both for the materials and labor. The thinner sheets are lighter and easier to handle, which can make the job go faster and cost less in labor. 

If you’re trying to stick to a budget, it can be a good choice.

But here’s something to think about: while 5/8″ sheathing might cost more upfront, it could save you money in the long run. 

Because it’s tougher, you might not need to fix or replace your roof as often. 

Plus, in some cases, using 5/8″ sheathing means you don’t need to use H-clips between rafters, which could offset some of the extra cost.

#5 Roofing Material Compatibility

The type of roofing material you want to use can also help decide between 1/2″ or 5/8″ sheathing. 

For regular asphalt shingles, which aren’t too heavy, 1/2″ sheathing is usually fine if your rafters or trusses are spaced right. But if you’re going for something heavier like clay tiles, slate, or fancy architectural shingles, you might need the extra strength of 5/8″ sheathing.

Also check out our Edina Roof replacement services.

It’s also worth mentioning that some roofing material makers have specific rules about how thick your sheathing needs to be.

You must follow these rules to keep your warranty valid.

So always check what the roofing material manufacturer says before you decide.

#6 Weight And Handling

The weight difference between 1/2″ and 5/8″ sheathing might not seem like a big deal, but it can matter when you’re actually putting the roof on. 

The 1/2″ sheets are lighter, which makes them easier to move around, especially on steep roofs or in tight spots. 

This can make the job go faster and be safer for the workers.

On the flip side, 5/8″ sheets are heavier, but some roofers like how solid they feel when walking on them during installation.

Building Code Compliance

Now, no matter what you prefer, you’ve got to follow your local building codes. 

These codes often have specific rules about how thick your roof sheathing needs to be, based on things like:

• How steep your roof is
• How tall your building is
• What the weather’s like in your area

These rules can be really different depending on where you live.

For example, some places that get hit by hurricanes or lots of snow might require 5/8″ sheathing for all homes. In other areas with milder weather, 1/2″ might be totally fine. 

It’s super important to check with your local building department or a licensed contractor to make sure your choice meets all the rules.

Should You Choose 5/8 Or 1/2 Roof Sheathing?

Deciding between 5/8″ and 1/2″ roof sheathing really depends on your specific situation.

If you live somewhere with extreme weather, have a complicated or steep roof, or plan to use heavy roofing materials, 5/8″ sheathing is probably the way to go.

It’s stronger, lasts longer, and might even save you money in the long run.

But if you’re in an area with normal weather, have a simple roof that isn’t too steep, and you’re using regular roofing materials, 1/2″ sheathing might be just fine. 

It can save you some money without sacrificing too much performance, as long as it meets your local building codes.