How our numbers work

The cost model

The calculator and every worked example use the same four-step model:

1. Roof area from geometry. Roof area = home footprint × pitch multiplier, where the multiplier is √(1 + (rise/run)²) — real geometry, not a fudge factor: 4/12 → ×1.06, 6/12 → ×1.12, 8/12 → ×1.2, 10/12 → ×1.3, 12/12 → ×1.41. Squares = roof area ÷ 100.
2. Material band. Each of the 7 materials carries a typical published installed-cost band per square (materials + labor), from $450 (3-tab low end) to $2500 (clay tile high end).
3. Complexity multiplier, labeled. Simple ×1.00 / Moderate ×1.15 / Complex ×1.30 — valleys, dormers, penetrations, stories, and access all add labor. The label and the multiplier are always shown together.
4. Tear-off as its own line: $100–$200 per square, optional, never buried in the material line.

The bands-not-quotes rule

All prices on this site are typical published bands: they aggregate manufacturer pricing, industry cost guides, and published contractor ranges. Quotes vary by region, access, story count, material grade, and tear-off scope — a band benchmarks a quote; it is never a quote. We say this on every surface that shows a number, because the alternative is becoming the sales pitch we exist to check. When a band drifts materially, we correct it and the model recomputes site-wide.

The insurance-content disclaimer

Our storm-damage and claims content is process guidance, not coverage promises — your policy and adjuster govern. We document how the claims process generally works and the well-documented fraud patterns around it (deductible "deals", assignment-of-benefits pressure). We never assess whether your damage is covered, never estimate payouts, and never advise on policy disputes — that is your policy, your adjuster, and where needed, your state insurance department or a licensed public adjuster.

How quote matching works

RoofQuoted is homeowner-side: we publish the benchmarks whether or not you ever request a quote. When you submit the quote form and check the consent box, we may share your request with licensed roofing professionals and may be compensated for that referral. Two firewalls apply: your information is never shared without the checked box, and compensation never moves a published band, red flag, or rating.

Corrections

Cost-band and model corrections get priority over everything else — the model is the product. Contact us.