If you’re a homeowner in Oklahoma thinking about installing a new roof, you’re probably wondering how much it’s going to cost. Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials around, especially in states like Oklahoma, where the weather can be unpredictable. But what does it actually cost to install an asphalt shingle roof here? Well, like most home improvement projects, the answer depends on a few key factors.
In this blog post, we are going to talk about how much asphalt shingle roofs cost and the factors that can raise or lower the final price.
Why Asphalt Shingles?
First off, why do so many homeowners in Oklahoma choose asphalt shingles? It’s simple—they’re affordable, durable, and versatile. Asphalt shingles come in a variety of styles and colors, and they perform well in different weather conditions. Given Oklahoma’s hot summers and stormy seasons, these shingles hold up well while still being budget-friendly.
Types of Asphalt Shingles and Their Costs
When asphalt shingles first appeared, there was only one type available: the 3-tab or strip shingles. But over the years, shingles have become available in a variety of types that are stronger and more durable. The type you choose will affect both the price and the longevity of your roof.
3-Tab Shingles
Cost: $3 to $5 per square foot
As we covered in the introduction to this section, these are the most basic and affordable type of shingles. If you’re on a tight budget, 3-tab shingles could be a good option. They usually last about 15-20 years. However, over the years these have been shown to degrade faster in the Oklahoma weather and architectural shingles have emerged as a more viable option.
Architectural Shingles
Cost: $4 to $8 per square foot
A step up from 3-tabs, architectural shingles offer more durability and a better appearance. They have a longer lifespan, usually around 25-30 years, and they can withstand harsh weather better. These also come with other features such as algae resistance and better wind warranties.
Also Read: Top 6 Architectural Shingles That Are Worth The Extra Cost
Premium Shingles
Cost: $7 to $12 per square foot.
Also known as luxury asphalt shingles, these are high-end shingles that mimic the look of natural materials like slate or cedar. They’re built to last, have a life expectancy of 30-50 years, and are designed for maximum weather resistance.
For example, most 3-tab shingles do not come with wind warranties, but with luxury shingles, some manufacturers offer impressive warranties of up to 130 mph.
Also Read: 5 Best Luxury Asphalt Shingles of 2024
Breaking Down the Numbers: What Homeowners in Oklahoma Can Expect
So, how does this all translate into real-world pricing for Oklahoma homeowners? Based on current market rates, here’s a ballpark breakdown:
For an average-sized home (around 2,000 square feet), you can expect to pay around $6,000 to $11,000 for 3-tab shingles, $8,000 to $17,000 for architectural shingles, and $14,000 to $29,000 for premium shingles.
For larger homes (closer to 3,000 square feet), costs will increase. You might be looking at $9,000 to $16,000 for 3-tab shingles and upwards of $20,000 for other shingles. For example, an architectural shingle roof of about 3,000 square feet will cost between $12,000 and $25,000.
Keep in mind these figures can fluctuate based on factors like labor costs, roof complexity, and extras like underlayment or storm-resistant materials, which we will cover in the next section.
Factors That Affect the Cost of an Asphalt Shingle Roof
As you can see from the costs above, the range is pretty broad. However, to move closer to the actual cost, it’s important to understand the other factors that can affect the final bill. Here’s a rundown:
Type and Quality of Asphalt Shingles
We have already covered that asphalt shingles come in three main types: 3-tab, architectural, and premium shingles. The type you choose will have a direct impact on the price.
Size of Your Roof
The size of your roof is one of the biggest factors in determining the cost of asphalt shingles. Roofing companies usually calculate asphalt shingle roof cost per square foot.
This means the cost will be higher if the area of your roof is larger. Why? The larger your roof, the more materials and labor will be required, increasing the overall project cost. Most homes in Oklahoma will fall between 1,500 and 3,000 square feet of roofing surface.
Roof Pitch and Complexity
If your roof has a steep pitch or a lot of corners and valleys, it’s going to be more labor-intensive to install shingles. Roofers may charge extra for complex roof structures.
Labor and Installation Costs
Labor costs vary based on the complexity of your roof’s design and the contractor you choose. You’ll want to budget for both materials and installation, as the latter can be a significant portion of your overall expense.
Local Weather Conditions
Oklahoma is known for its intense weather—from thunderstorms to tornadoes. This means you might want to invest in more durable shingles. There are asphalt shingles that come with impact-ratings (impact-resistant roofs), but these are more expensive. This can increase your upfront costs but save you in the long run by avoiding damage.
Additional Features and Materials
Sometimes you’ll need more than just shingles. Underlayment (the layer beneath the shingles), ventilation, and even flashing around chimneys or skylights can add to the final bill.
Other Cost Considerations
When calculating the total cost of an asphalt shingle roof, it’s important to think beyond just the initial installation. Here are some additional factors that could influence what you pay in the long run:
Warranties
One key thing to look at when selecting shingles is the warranty. Some asphalt shingles come with warranties that last anywhere from 20 to 50 years, depending on the quality and brand. While a longer warranty may give you peace of mind, keep in mind that shingles with extended warranties tend to cost more upfront.
Maintenance
Asphalt shingles are generally known for being low-maintenance, but that doesn’t mean you can ignore them entirely, especially in Oklahoma where the weather can be intense. High winds, hail, and temperature fluctuations can cause damage over time, meaning you may need to schedule occasional repairs or even replace individual shingles.
Longevity vs. Cost
When weighing the options between 3-tab, architectural, and premium shingles, it’s important to think about the long-term value. Yes, architectural and premium shingles are more expensive upfront, but they are built to last longer and perform better in extreme weather conditions.
If you’re planning to stay in your home for a long time, investing in a more expensive option may be more cost-effective in the long run.
Comparing Asphalt Shingles With Other Roofing Materials
Out of all the roofing materials common in Tulsa and surrounding areas of Oklahoma, asphalt shingles are the most affordable, and this is their superpower.
For example, these roofs cost much less than metal roofs and tile roofing systems. However, metal and tile roofs are also more durable and fare better against harsh weather.
Overall, you need to assess your specific needs when choosing the right roofing material, going beyond just cost for careful consideration.
Also Read: Metal Roof vs. Shingles: Which One Is Best For Your Home?
Start Your New Shingle Roofing Project Today!
All in all, asphalt shingles cost less than other roofing options and are a versatile choice. If you have decided to install a new shingle roof, we recommend architectural or luxury roof shingles.
A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing is a leading roofing company that provides asphalt shingle roof installation services in Tulsa, OK, and the surrounding areas. We use shingles from the best manufacturers and ensure the installation meets industry and local requirements. Contact us today at (918) 402-7167 to get started.