Thinking about replacing your roof or building new? One of the first questions that comes up is: How much will it cost?
Whether you’re re-roofing a weathered Hamilton home or installing a roof on a new build, the cost can vary significantly depending on several key factors. In this guide, we’ll break it all down for you—what affects the price, what to expect during the process, and why getting a custom quote is essential.
What Influences the Cost of a New Roof or Re-Roof in Hamilton?
There’s no single price tag for roofing—it depends on a mix of materials, labour, logistics, and design. Here are the biggest cost factors to consider:
1. Roof Size
Roofing is generally priced per square metre, so the larger your roof, the more you’ll pay in materials and labour. Roof size includes not just the floor area of your home but also:
Overhangs and eaves
Attached garages or porches
Multi-storey structures
2. Roof Pitch (Steepness)
A steeper roof is harder and more dangerous to work on. These roofs require more safety equipment, scaffolding, and labour time, which can increase the price.
3. Roof Design Complexity
A simple, single-slope roof is much cheaper to build or replace than a complex design with:
Multiple levels
Valleys and ridges
Chimneys, skylights, or dormers
Custom flashing or detailing
The more intricate the roofline, the more time and skill it takes to complete.
4. Material Choice
Your roofing material plays a major role in cost and performance. Here’s a quick comparison of common materials used in Hamilton:
Material | Lifespan | Cost | Maintenance | Weather Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Colorsteel | 30–50 years | $$ | Low | Excellent in Hamilton’s wet climate |
Zincalume | 20–30 years | $ | Low | Good performance, industrial look |
Concrete tiles | 30–40 years | $$$ | Moderate | Heavy; requires strong framing |
With COLORSTEEL NZ’s new MAXAM product you can now get up to a 50 year warranty on new long run roofs installed by qualified installers.
5. New Roof vs. Re-Roof
Re-roofing tends to cost more than new installations due to:
Removal and disposal of the old roofing
Structural checks or timber repairs
Upgrades to underlay, flashings, and fixings
Potential asbestos-related costs (for older roofs)
If your existing roof is showing its age, a re-roof is often the safest way to protect your home long term.
Read our Blog: Is It Time for a Re-Roof? Key Signs for Hamilton Homeowners
6. Site Access
Limited access can increase costs due to added labour and setup. Factors include:
Narrow driveways
Steep or uneven terrain
Need for scaffolding or hoists
Limited room for material delivery or storage
7. Additional Upgrades
Some homeowners choose to bundle in extras like:
Upgraded insulation
Skylights or roof windows
Solar panels
New fascia, spouting, or guttering
While optional, these are often more cost-effective to install during a re-roof than doing them later.
Real World Example
Recently, we completed a re-roof in the Waikato, where we removed the aging long run roofing and replaced it with the new COLORSTEEL roofing product, MAXAM. The home 329 m² had a moderate pitch and we were also asked to install purlin wood and cover in 3 pergolas which increased the final cost because of the extra labour and materials prepping the pergolas for new roofs. The project was completed in 8 days at a total cost of $38,000.00
Another job we completed in Putaruru was a low pitch simple 4 hip roof. This was 114 m² and costed $12,500.00 to replace the old aging roof with a new one.
What to Expect During the Re-Roofing Process
Worried about disruption? Here’s a basic breakdown of what happens during a typical re-roof:
Site preparation and scaffolding (Day 1)
Removal of old roof and inspection of structure (Day 2–3)
Installation of underlay, flashings, and new roofing material (Day 4–5)
Clean-up and final inspection (Day 5–6)
Weather conditions and roof complexity may impact this timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I stay in my house during the re-roof?
Yes, in most cases. The work is external, but it can be noisy. We’ll let you know if any indoor access is required.
Q: How long does a re-roof take?
Anywhere from 3–7 days depending on roof size, material, and weather.
Q: What if the weather is bad?
We monitor forecasts closely and use temporary protection if needed. Your home will never be left exposed.
Q: How do I know if my roof has asbestos?
If your home was built before the mid-1980s, it’s possible. We can inspect and arrange safe removal if necessary.
Why Getting a Custom Quote Matters
Every Hamilton home is different. A custom quote ensures:
✔ Accurate pricing for your specific roof size, pitch, and material
✔ No hidden surprises after the job starts
✔ Full transparency on what's included—removal, flashing, underlay, clean-up, and more
The Long-Term Value of a New Roof
Investing in a high-quality roof isn’t just about protecting your home—it’s about improving it. A new roof can:
Boost your home’s resale value
Improve insulation and reduce energy bills
Increase protection during storms and extreme weather
Eliminate ongoing leak repairs and maintenance costs
Download: Roof Cost Planning Checklist
Want a quick reference while you gather quotes? Download our Roof Cost Planning Checklist to help you:
✔ Measure your roof accurately
✔ Compare material options
✔ Ask the right questions
✔ Budget with confidence
Ready to Get Started?
At Riggall Roofing, we provide transparent, no-obligation quotes tailored to your home’s exact needs. Whether you’re planning ahead or dealing with a problem right now, we’re here to help.
Call us today on 027 683 6298
Or book a free roof assessment.
