If your roof is showing signs of wear—leaks, sagging, or visible weather damage—you might be wondering whether it’s time to refelt your house roof. While not the most glamorous home improvement project, refelting is crucial for preserving your roof’s integrity and protecting your home from the elements.
One of the most common questions homeowners ask is: How much does it cost to refelt a house roof? The answer depends on various factors, including roof size, material, labor, and the condition of the underlying structure.
Read too: How Long Do Standing Seam Metal Roofs Last? A Comprehensive Guide to Durability and Longevity
This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know about refelting your roof, including average costs, factors that influence pricing, the importance of roofing felt, and how to choose the right contractor for the job.
What Is Roof Felt and Why Is It Important?
Roof felt, also known as underlayment or roofing membrane, is a protective layer installed between your roof’s deck and the shingles or tiles. It acts as a secondary barrier against moisture, wind, and UV damage.
Why roof felt matters:
- Prevents leaks in case shingles or tiles are damaged
- Helps with ventilation and reduces condensation
- Adds extra insulation
- Enhances fire resistance (in some felts)
- Complies with local building codes
Over time, felt can degrade due to age, water infiltration, or physical damage. When this happens, your roof becomes vulnerable—even if the outer roofing layer looks intact.
Signs You Need to Refelt Your Roof
Before getting into costs, it’s helpful to know when a roof needs refelting. Here are some signs:
- Persistent roof leaks despite patching
- Visible sagging between rafters
- Crumbling or flaking felt in roof space
- Water stains or mold on ceilings
- Increased energy bills due to poor insulation
- Shingle/tile shifting or missing
If your roof is 15–30 years old and you notice any of these issues, it’s a good time to consider a refelt as part of maintenance or a full re-roof.
How Much Does It Cost To Refelt A House Roof?
Now, to the question at hand: How much does it cost to refelt a house roof?
The average cost to refelt a roof in the US ranges from $2,500 to $9,000, with most homeowners paying around $4,500–$6,000. The cost depends on:
- Size of the roof
- Access and slope (pitch)
- Type of felt used
- Labor rates in your area
- Whether you’re refelting only or replacing tiles/shingles too
Cost Breakdown by Roof Size
| Roof Size (Square Feet) | Estimated Refelt Cost |
|---|---|
| 1,000 sq ft (small home) | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| 1,500 sq ft (average home) | $3,500 – $6,000 |
| 2,000+ sq ft (large home) | $5,000 – $9,000+ |
Note: Costs increase with roof complexity, steepness, and condition of existing materials.
Types of Roofing Felt
The type of roofing felt you choose significantly affects the total cost and performance.
1. Traditional Bitumen Felt
- Made from asphalt and fiberglass
- Most common and affordable
- Typically $0.50–$1.50 per square foot
2. Self-Adhesive Felt
- Easier and faster to install
- Good for DIY or flat roofs
- $1.00–$2.50 per square foot
3. Torch-On Felt
- Heat-applied (requires professional installation)
- Extremely durable and waterproof
- $2.00–$4.00 per square foot
4. Synthetic Underlayment
- Lightweight and moisture-resistant
- UV-resistant and longer-lasting
- $1.50–$3.00 per square foot
Each type has its pros and cons. If you live in a rainy or snowy area, investing in high-performance felt can prevent future water damage.
How Much Does It Cost To Refelt A House Roof – Detailed Factors That Affect Pricing
Here’s a deeper look into the key variables that influence how much it costs to refelt a house roof.
1. Roof Type and Pitch
Steeper roofs are harder to work on and often require safety equipment or scaffolding. Flat roofs are easier to access but may require more waterproofing layers.
2. Removal of Old Felt or Roof Covering
If your existing felt is in poor condition or there’s underlying rot, the old layers need to be stripped, which adds to the labor cost.
3. Location and Labor Costs
Labor rates vary depending on where you live. Urban areas with higher costs of living (like California or New York) can have roofing costs up to 30% higher than rural zones.
4. Accessibility
If your home has multiple levels or limited space around the property, setup and logistics can be more complicated—leading to higher labor fees.
5. Repairs and Replacements
If roof trusses, battens, or boards are rotting or damaged, replacing these can add $500–$3,000 to your project depending on severity.
Is It Worth Refelting Without Replacing Tiles or Shingles?
Yes, you can refelt a roof without replacing tiles or shingles, especially if they’re still in good condition. This is known as a felt retrofit and is often done from inside the roof space or by carefully removing and reusing the outer covering.
However, if your tiles or shingles are cracked, curled, or have lost their granules, it may be wiser to do a full re-roof.
How Long Does Roof Felt Last?
Most modern roof felts last 20–30 years, depending on material quality and exposure. Factors that reduce lifespan include:
- Extreme weather (UV exposure, snow loads, heavy rain)
- Poor installation
- Inadequate attic ventilation
- Lack of maintenance
If your home is in a climate-prone area, consider investing in premium felt with a longer warranty (up to 50 years).
How to Choose a Qualified Roofing Contractor
Refelting may seem straightforward, but it’s a job best left to licensed professionals. When choosing a roofing contractor:
- Verify licensing and insurance
- Ask for detailed, itemized quotes
- Check for warranties on labor and materials
- Read reviews and ask for references
- Ensure they follow OSHA and local building codes
Always get at least three quotes to ensure competitive pricing.
Can I Refelt a Roof Myself?
DIY refelting is not recommended for most homeowners unless you have experience with roofing and understand safety protocols.
Risks include:
- Improper sealing, leading to leaks
- Voiding roofing material warranties
- Personal injury from roof falls or burns (for torch-on felt)
However, self-adhesive felt on small flat roofs (like garden sheds or garages) can be manageable for experienced DIYers.
Cost-Saving Tips for Refelting Your Roof
While roof work is never “cheap,” there are ways to lower the cost of refelting your home:
- Schedule work during the offseason (late fall or early spring)
- Choose a reputable contractor with transparent pricing
- Ask if you can reuse any materials (tiles, battens)
- Maintain your roof regularly to extend its lifespan
- Get quotes from local contractors rather than national chains
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to refelt a roof?
A: For a standard-sized house, it typically takes 2 to 5 days, depending on weather and complexity.
Q: Is refelting covered by insurance?
A: Insurance may cover refelting only if it’s part of a claim (like storm damage). Routine wear and tear is generally not covered.
Q: Can you refelt part of a roof?
A: Yes. If damage is localized, partial refelting is possible—but full replacement is more cost-effective in the long run.
Q: Does new felt improve insulation?
A: While felt provides a moisture barrier, it doesn’t offer high insulation. However, modern underlayments can contribute slightly to energy efficiency.
Final Thoughts
So, how much does it cost to refelt a house roof? You can expect to pay anywhere from $2,500 to $9,000, depending on size, material, labor, and additional repairs. While it’s not a small expense, refelting is crucial to maintaining your roof’s integrity and protecting your home for decades to come.
Whether you’re patching up storm damage or giving your roof a full facelift, understanding your options and the pricing involved will help you make the best decision for your home and your budget.
Leave a Reply