Building · Cost Guide
How Much Does Roofing Cost in Ontario?
Roofing costs in Ontario range from $5,000 – $10,000 per project. Prices vary by scope, city, and site conditions.
$5,000+
Starting price
2-5 days
Timeline
10%
Recommended contingency
Roofing Cost Breakdown
| Scope | Low | High | Unit | Labour | Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt shingle re-roof (1,200 sq ft roof) | $5,000 | $10,000 | per project | 55% | 45% |
| Flat roof replacement (modified bitumen) | $8,000 | $15,000 | per project | 50% | 50% |
| Metal roof installation | $12,000 | $25,000 | per project | 45% | 55% |
| Roof repair (leak, shingle replacement) | $300 | $1,500 | per repair | 65% | 35% |
| Soffit and fascia replacement | $2,000 | $5,000 | per project | 55% | 45% |
Price Ranges at a Glance
Asphalt shingle re-roof (1,200 sq ft roof)
Flat roof replacement (modified bitumen)
Metal roof installation
Roof repair (leak, shingle replacement)
Soffit and fascia replacement
What's Included vs Not Included
Typically Included
- Old shingle removal and disposal
- Roof deck inspection and minor repairs
- Ice and water shield at eaves and valleys
- Synthetic underlayment
- Shingle installation with proper nailing
- Ridge cap and ventilation
- Flashing at walls, chimneys, and vents
- Clean-up and debris removal
Not Included (Extra Cost)
- Roof deck replacement (plywood, $2-$4/sq ft)
- Structural repairs (rafters, trusses)
- Skylight installation or replacement
- Gutter and eavestrough replacement
- Chimney repair or removal
- Attic insulation upgrade
Roofing Cost by City
Prices adjusted for local labour rates and material costs across 15 GTA cities.
| City | Low | High | vs Toronto | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Toronto City of Toronto | $5,000 | $10,000 | 0% | View |
Mississauga Peel Region | $4,763 | $9,525 | -5% | View |
Brampton Peel Region | $4,635 | $9,270 | -8% | View |
Vaughan York Region | $4,868 | $9,735 | -3% | View |
Markham York Region | $4,840 | $9,680 | -3% | View |
Richmond Hill York Region | $4,818 | $9,635 | -4% | View |
Aurora York Region | $4,713 | $9,425 | -6% | View |
Oakville Halton Region | $5,083 | $10,165 | +2% | View |
Burlington Halton Region | $4,795 | $9,590 | -4% | View |
Milton Halton Region | $4,635 | $9,270 | -8% | View |
Ajax Durham Region | $4,558 | $9,115 | -9% | View |
Pickering Durham Region | $4,635 | $9,270 | -8% | View |
Oshawa Durham Region | $4,453 | $8,905 | -12% | View |
Whitby Durham Region | $4,530 | $9,060 | -10% | View |
Hamilton City of Hamilton | $4,508 | $9,015 | -10% | View |
Money-Saving Tips
Replace roof before it leaks — water damage to attic and structure costs 3-5x the roofing price.
Architectural shingles cost 10-15% more than 3-tab but last 10-15 years longer.
Metal roofing has 50-year lifespan vs 20-25 for asphalt — compare lifecycle cost, not installed cost.
Ice and water shield is required in Ontario — don't let contractors skip it at eaves.
Schedule roofing for spring or fall — peak summer demand drives prices up 10-20%.
Related Cost Guides
Roofing Cost FAQs
How long does a roof last in Ontario?
Asphalt shingles: 15-25 years depending on quality, installation, ventilation, and weather exposure. Architectural shingles (thicker, better wind resistance) last 20-30 years. 3-tab shingles last 15-20 years. Premium shingles (impact-resistant, Class 4) can last 30-50 years but cost 50-100% more. Metal roofing lasts 40-70 years. Factors that shorten roof life: poor ventilation (attic heat bakes shingles), ice dams (water backs under shingles), south-facing exposure (more UV and heat), overhanging trees (moss, debris, shade retains moisture).
Do I need to replace the roof deck (sheathing) when re-roofing?
Only if it's damaged. During tear-off, inspect the deck for: soft spots (rot from leaks), gaps between panels (shrinkage or poor installation), broken or cracked panels, sagging (indicates structural issues with rafters). If less than 10-20% of deck is damaged, replace only the bad sections. If more than 20% is damaged, consider full re-sheath ($2-$5 per sq ft) for a uniform substrate. Skipping deck replacement when needed leads to shingles lifting (nails pull through soft OSB), uneven surface (shingles wear prematurely), and potential leaks (gaps allow water through underlayment).
What's the difference between architectural shingles and 3-tab shingles?
Architectural shingles (also called dimensional or laminated) are thicker, heavier, and have a textured appearance (shadow lines mimic wood shakes). They have better wind resistance (110 mph vs 60 mph for 3-tab), longer warranties (25-50 years vs 15-20 years), and better curb appeal. 3-tab shingles are flat, uniform, and cheaper ($70-$100 per square vs $100-$150 for architectural). For $1-$2 per sq ft more, architectural shingles are worth it — better durability, appearance, and resale value. Most new homes use architectural shingles; 3-tab is dying out.
Can I install new shingles over old shingles (overlay)?
Technically yes — OBC allows one layer of overlay (two total layers of shingles). But it's not recommended. Overlaying hides deck damage (rot, gaps), adds weight (old + new shingles = 6-8 lbs per sq ft extra), shortens new shingle life (uneven substrate causes premature wear), and voids most manufacturer warranties. Savings: $1-$2 per sq ft by skipping tear-off. Cost of problems: $5K-$15K if deck rots undetected and needs replacement later. Pay the extra $1,500-$3,000 for a full tear-off — it's the right way to do it.
How do I prevent ice dams?
Ice dams form when heat escapes through the ceiling into the attic, melts snow on the roof, and the melt refreezes at the cold eave. The ice blocks further melt, which backs up under shingles and leaks into the house. Prevention: (1) Insulate attic to R-50 (blown cellulose, spray foam, or batts) to reduce heat loss. (2) Ventilate properly — 1:300 ratio (1 sq ft vent per 300 sq ft attic floor), split 50/50 between soffit intake and ridge exhaust. (3) Install soffit baffles (maintain airflow channel between insulation and roof deck). (4) Air-seal ceiling penetrations (pot lights, duct boots, wire holes) to stop warm air leaks. Ice/water shield at eaves (required by code) prevents leaks but doesn't stop ice dams — it's a bandaid. Fix the insulation and ventilation.
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