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Labor Cost to Install Shingles: What Homeowners Need to Know in 2025
When it’s time to replace or repair your roof, one of the first things most homeowners want to know is: “How much will it cost to install shingles?” More specifically, the labor cost to install shingles can make up 60% or more of the total roofing project. While the price of roofing materials like asphalt shingles or metal panels is relatively consistent, labor costs vary based on region, roof complexity, time of year, and even the contractor’s experience.
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down what you can expect when it comes to labor costs for shingle installation, the factors that impact pricing, and how to ensure you’re getting the best value for your investment—especially if you’re in Northeast Ohio, where homes face harsh winters, high winds, and seasonal freeze-thaw cycles.
Table of Contents
- Average Labor Cost to Install Shingles
- Cost Per Square Foot vs. Per Roofing Square
- Factors That Affect Labor Cost
- Labor Cost by Roof Complexity
- Labor Cost by Shingle Type
- Cost to Remove Old Shingles
- Ohio Roofing Labor Rates in 2025
- DIY vs Professional Installation: A Cost Comparison
- How to Get the Best Roofing Labor Quote
- Why Choose S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC
1. Average Labor Cost to Install Shingles
Nationally, labor costs to install shingles range from $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot, depending on project specifics. That means if your home has a 2,000 square foot roof, you could pay $3,000 to $7,000 for labor alone.
In roofing, a “square” refers to 100 square feet. So if a roofer quotes you $150 to $350 per square, that refers specifically to labor costs (excluding materials, underlayment, permits, and disposal).
2. Cost Per Square Foot vs. Per Roofing Square
Understanding how roofers price their work is key to interpreting estimates.
- Per Square Foot: Easier for homeowners to understand. A 2,000 sq. ft. roof at $3/sq. ft. = $6,000 labor.
- Per Roofing Square: A roofer might quote $300 per square (100 sq. ft.), which also equals $6,000 for 2,000 sq. ft.
At S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, we use clear, transparent pricing in both formats to help our clients understand exactly what they’re paying for.
3. Factors That Affect Labor Cost
Several key factors can influence labor cost to install shingles:
✅ Roof Size
Larger roofs naturally require more labor. However, larger jobs can also benefit from economies of scale, slightly lowering the labor rate per square foot.
✅ Roof Pitch (Slope)
Steeper roofs are more dangerous and labor-intensive. OSHA regulations may require harnesses, scaffolding, or additional workers, driving up labor costs.
✅ Roof Complexity
Roofs with dormers, skylights, chimneys, valleys, and intricate architectural features require extra time and precision, increasing labor rates.
✅ Accessibility
If your roof is difficult to access—due to landscaping, fencing, or lack of driveway space—expect labor charges to rise.
✅ Tear-Off Requirements
Removing old shingles adds labor. We’ll cover this more in Section 6.
✅ Time of Year
In Ohio, roofing labor costs can be slightly higher during busy spring and fall months. Off-season installations may offer lower labor rates.
4. Labor Cost by Roof Complexity
| Roof Complexity | Description | Labor Cost Range per Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|---|
| Simple/Gable Roof | One or two sloped surfaces | $1.50 – $2.50 |
| Moderate Complexity | Hip roof, one chimney/skylight | $2.00 – $3.25 |
| High Complexity | Steep pitch, multiple valleys | $2.75 – $4.00+ |
5. Labor Cost by Shingle Type
The type of shingle impacts labor time and technique:
▪️ 3-Tab Asphalt Shingles
- Easiest to install
- Labor Cost: $1.50 – $2.50 per sq. ft.
▪️ Architectural Shingles
- Thicker, longer-lasting, more complex layout
- Labor Cost: $2.00 – $3.25 per sq. ft.
▪️ Luxury/Designer Shingles
- Mimic wood or slate; may require custom fitting
- Labor Cost: $3.00 – $4.50 per sq. ft.
At S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, we install Owens Corning Duration architectural shingles, which offer excellent durability, wind resistance, and beautiful color options for homes in Ohio.
6. Cost to Remove Old Shingles
Before new shingles can be installed, the old roof often must be torn off. Tear-off labor ranges from:
- $1.00 to $2.00 per square foot, depending on:
- Number of shingle layers
- Decking condition
- Accessibility
🔍 Why Tear-Off Is Important
While some contractors offer to install new shingles over existing ones to save money, this often leads to ventilation issues, hidden leaks, and warranty voids. We always recommend a full tear-off for best results.
7. Ohio Roofing Labor Rates in 2025
In Northeast Ohio, you can expect roofing labor to fall in these ranges:
| City/County | Labor Cost Per Sq. Ft. | Total Roof (2,000 sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|
| Youngstown | $1.75 – $3.25 | $3,500 – $6,500 |
| Jefferson | $1.60 – $3.00 | $3,200 – $6,000 |
| Ashtabula County | $1.80 – $3.50 | $3,600 – $7,000 |
| Cleveland Metro | $2.25 – $3.75 | $4,500 – $7,500 |
These figures are just for labor. Your total cost will also include:
- Shingles and materials
- Underlayment
- Ice/water shield
- Flashing and drip edge
- Permits and inspections
8. DIY vs Professional Installation: A Cost Comparison
Some homeowners consider DIY to save money, but roofing is one of the most dangerous and technically demanding home improvement projects.
| Task | DIY Cost (Labor) | Pro Cost (Labor) | Risk/Downside |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic 3-tab roof | $0 (your time) | $3,500+ | Safety risk, no warranty |
| Architectural roof | $0 | $4,000–$6,500 | Mistakes can lead to leaks/damage |
| Complex roof | Not recommended | $5,000–$8,000+ | Code violations, higher repair costs |
Hiring professionals like S&K Construction ensures your roof is installed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all local codes.
9. How to Get the Best Roofing Labor Quote
Want to make sure you’re not overpaying for labor to install shingles? Here are some tips:
✅ Get Multiple Quotes
Always compare at least 2–3 licensed contractors. Look beyond price—consider reputation, warranty, and timeline.
✅ Ask for Labor vs Material Breakdown
Your quote should clearly list labor costs, material costs, tear-off, and disposal fees.
✅ Choose a Local Roofing Contractor
Local roofers understand regional climate needs, code requirements, and permitting. S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, based in Jefferson, OH, is deeply rooted in the Northeast Ohio community.
✅ Check for Certifications
We’re proud to be an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, offering extended warranties and premium workmanship.
✅ Ask About Warranty
A proper roofing labor warranty should be at least 5 years—ours goes even further depending on the project scope and materials.
10. Why Choose S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC
Here’s why homeowners throughout Ashtabula County, Youngstown, and surrounding areas choose us for their roofing projects:
✅ Local, Licensed, and Insured
✅ Owens Corning Preferred Contractor
✅ Financing Available
✅ Free Roofing Inspections and Estimates
✅ 5-Star Google Rating from Satisfied Customers
✅ Fast Turnaround and Full Cleanup
We provide honest labor quotes with no hidden fees—and we back every shingle with a labor and material warranty that you can trust.
What Our Customers Are Saying
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“We were dreading the cost of replacing our roof, but S&K walked us through every detail. The labor was affordable, and they finished in two days!”
— Amy M., Jefferson, OH
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Other companies quoted high labor rates with no transparency. S&K gave us a line-by-line estimate and the crew was professional from start to finish.”
— Marcus L., Youngstown, OH
Final Thoughts: Plan Your Roofing Project with Confidence
The labor cost to install shingles is a major component of your roofing investment, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding the factors that go into pricing—and working with a trusted local contractor—you can ensure that your new roof is installed properly, affordably, and built to last for decades.
If you’re planning a roof replacement in Northeast Ohio, contact S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC today for a free, no-obligation roofing estimate.
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