Cost Guide · 2026
A transparent breakdown of what a new roof actually costs in Ontario in 2026 — materials, labour, and the factors that move the final number. Written by the crew that installs them.
The Short Answer
Most Ontario homeowners spend between $7,500 and $15,000 on an asphalt shingle replacement for an average single-family home (1,500–2,000 sq ft of roof area). Metal roofing typically runs $15,000 to $30,000+. Cedar shake and slate sit above that. The number depends on three things: the material, the size and pitch of the roof, and how much hidden damage shows up once the old roof is off.
Material Breakdown
The default for ~80% of Ontario homes. A 1,800 sq ft roof lands between $8,000 and $13,500. Architectural (laminated) shingles cost slightly more than 3-tab and last 25–30 years instead of 15–20. Brands like GAF Timberline HDZ, IKO Cambridge, and Owens Corning Duration are common; the installed price difference between them is usually small — workmanship matters more.
Best for: most residential homes, tight budgets, faster installs.
A 1,800 sq ft roof in standing seam steel runs $16,000 to $28,000. Lifespan is 40–70 years, snow sheds cleanly, and energy costs drop slightly because of the reflective finish. The upfront price is roughly double asphalt, but you're buying two-to-three roof cycles in one.
Best for: long-term owners, complex Ontario winters, modern aesthetics.
Premium territory — typically $25,000 to $50,000+ for an average home. Cedar gives a heritage look (30–40 year life with maintenance). Natural slate can outlast the house itself but adds structural weight that older roofs may not be rated for.
Best for: heritage properties, custom builds, distinct architectural intent.
Labour
Labour is roughly 40–60% of the total bill in Ontario — typically $2 to $4 per square foot, higher for steep or complex roofs. That covers tear-off and disposal of the old roof, deck inspection and any plywood replacement, underlayment, ice-and-water shield in valleys and eaves (mandatory per Ontario Building Code), drip edge, flashing, ventilation, and the install itself.
A reputable Ontario crew carries WSIB coverage, liability insurance, and factory certification with at least one major manufacturer. Quotes that come in 30%+ below the rest usually skip one of those — and you find out when a claim gets denied.
Price Drivers
Roofers price by "squares" — one square = 100 sq ft. The average Ontario home is 18–25 squares. Bigger roof, more material and labour, linearly.
A walkable 4/12 pitch installs fast. Anything over 8/12 needs safety harnesses, slower work, and adds 15–30% to labour. Multiple dormers, hips, and valleys cut and waste more material.
Rotten plywood under the old shingles is the #1 quote surprise. Honest contractors quote a per-sheet rate up front ($75–$120 per 4×8 sheet installed) so you know what to expect if any is found.
A single layer comes off quickly. Two or three layers (legal up to two in Ontario) means more labour, more dump fees, and a heavier disposal cost — often $500–$1,500 extra.
Adding ridge vent, upgraded intake, new skylight flashing, or a chimney re-flash are usually a few hundred dollars each but extend the life of the entire system. Skipping them shortens it.
Sample Quotes
Ranges reflect typical 2026 Ontario pricing including materials, labour, tear-off, disposal, underlayment, flashing, and basic ventilation. HST not included.
Common Questions
Yes, Ontario Building Code allows up to two layers — and it saves $1,000–$2,000 in tear-off. But it hides rotten decking, voids most manufacturer warranties on premium shingles, and shortens lifespan. Most reputable contractors strongly recommend a full tear-off.
Only if the damage is from a sudden insured event — wind, hail, or fallen tree. Wear-and-tear and age aren't covered. We document storm damage clearly and work directly with adjusters when the claim is legitimate.
For larger jobs we offer instalment options through partner lenders so a $14,000 roof doesn't have to come out of one cheque. Ask during the estimate.
Late spring through early fall (May–October) gives the best install conditions — shingles seal properly above ~10°C. Booking in winter or early spring usually means better scheduling and occasionally better pricing.
Get an Exact Number
Estimates are free, on-site, and itemized — material, labour, decking allowance, and disposal listed line by line. No pressure, no upsell.
