Table of Contents
Introduction
In this article, I’ll give you the typical costs for installing a new roof in Montana in 2025, for both residential and commercial buildings. I’ve spent years reviewing contractor bids and researching roofing costs for my clients around the country. The roof cost estimates I provide here were produced by analyzing current material prices, Montana labor costs, and other relevant factors, including roofing project values from actual Montana building permit data. The roof systems covered here include asphalt shingles, metal roofing, slate, tile, synthetic composite, cedar shakes and shingles, and all of the common types of low-slope commercial roofing.
Construction costs in Montana tend to fall a little below the national average. Prices are often higher in growing metro areas such as Billings, Missoula, and Bozeman. (See national average roof replacement costs.)
Actual roof prices will vary depending on location, roof size, roof slope, complexity, and, of course, the type of roof system installed. Asphalt shingles are by far the most common residential roof covering in Montana, but alternatives like standing seam metal, synthetic composite, and cedar shakes are also relatively popular. Commercial “flat” (low-slope) roofs typically use single-ply membranes (EPDM, TPO, and PVC), modified bitumen, or spray-applied polyurethane foam roofing systems.
On average, Montana residential roof replacement prices in 2025 typically range from around $5.50 per square foot for basic asphalt shingles to around $31 per square foot for high-end copper roofing. This means a typical 1,700-square-foot pitched roof may cost between about $9,000 and $53,000, depending on the material chosen.
Commercial roofing tends to cost more than most people expect, due to the insulation requirements. Board insulation is normally installed as a part of a low-slope roof system, and costs around $1 to $1.50 per square foot (installed) per inch of thickness while providing an R-value of around R-4 to R-6 per inch.
Commercial roof replacement prices in Montana range, on average, from around $4.50 per square foot for a ballasted EPDM overlay system with no insulation included to around $16 per square foot for a 2-ply modified bitumen roof with enough insulation to satisfy Montana’s R-30 above-deck insulation requirement.
The tables below provide cost information for all roof types and systems.
Climate Considerations for Montana Roofs
Montana’s climate is generally classified as continental, with long, cold winters and warm summers. Conditions vary by region: the western mountains receive heavy snowfall and significant precipitation, while the eastern plains are drier and more prone to wide temperature swings. Average annual precipitation ranges from over 40 inches in mountainous areas in the west to less than 15 inches in parts of eastern Montana. Severe weather risks include heavy snow loads, high winds, hailstorms, and summer thunderstorms. Because of the snow, roofs in Montana are often built steeper than average to shed the snow; steeper roofs can have slightly higher labor costs during a replacement.
Heating degree days far outweigh cooling degree days across the state, so energy efficiency in winter is the primary concern. Reflective white “cool roof” materials are of limited benefit, and darker roofing materials may provide a small benefit by absorbing solar heat in winter. Roof algae staining (Gloeocapsa magma) can occur, especially in wetter parts of western Montana, so homeowners may want to consider algae-resistant shingles and/or black or dark gray shingles that make those black streaks less noticeable.
Given these conditions, homeowners and property managers in Montana should consider the following:
- Asphalt shingles are the most common and affordable residential roofing option. Algae-resistant shingles are a good choice, and impact-resistant shingles are recommended in hail-prone areas of the state.
- Ventilation and underlayment are critical. Proper attic ventilation reduces condensation, helps prevent ice dams during long winters, and improves roof longevity. Ice and water shield underlayments should be properly installed along eaves and valleys. Note that improper roof/attic ventilation can void your roof warranty.
- Metal roofing is a good choice statewide. Standing seam systems shed snow efficiently, resist wind, and provide excellent durability. PVDF-coated (Kynar) panels also resist color fading and corrosion very well.
- Slate, tile, and cedar roofing perform well when correctly installed. Cedar should only be used as part of a Class A fire-rated system. Copper or zinc strips can help inhibit moss and algae growth in wetter mountain and valley regions.
- Insulation and air sealing are especially important. A well-insulated attic lowers heating demand, prevents ice dams, and helps roofs handle Montana’s long, snowy winters.
Things to Keep in Mind
These roof cost estimates should be fairly accurate; I make an effort to update them regularly using current material prices and labor data specific to Montana. Keep in mind that the costs listed below are averages, and actual costs can vary significantly depending on your specific location and the size, configuration, accessibility, and condition of your particular roof.
The residential roof cost estimates provided here are for roof replacements on roofs with a 6/12 pitch and include all standard roof components (underlayment, ice & water shield, batten systems, fasteners, flashing, etc.). Steeper roofs or roofs with complex designs can increase costs by as much as 30%.
Removal of an existing commercial or residential roof typically adds between $1 and $3 per square foot. For the estimates in the tables below, $1.50 per square foot for tear-off and disposal has been included in all pricing except for the “no additional insulation” commercial roof pricing, which generally indicates a roof recover project.
Table 1: Residential Roof Costs in Montana
| Average Cost of a Residential Pitched Roof in Montana | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Roof Type | Average Installed Cost Per Square Foot |
Average Installed Cost Per Square (100 sq. ft.) |
Average Installed Cost Typical Residential Roof (1,700 sq. ft.) |
| Asphalt Shingles 3-Tab or Strip Shingles |
$5.10 | $510 | $8,670 |
| Asphalt Shingles Architectural or Dimensional Shingles |
$5.60 | $560 | $9,520 |
| Asphalt Shingles Luxury or Premium Shingles |
$6.95 | $695 | $11,815 |
| Cedar Shake & Shingle Red Cedar Shingles |
$12.70 | $1,270 | $21,590 |
| Cedar Shake & Shingle Red Cedar Shingles Class A Fire Rated System |
$14.25 | $1,425 | $24,225 |
| Cedar Shake & Shingle Red Cedar Shakes |
$12.25 | $1,225 | $20,825 |
| Cedar Shake & Shingle Red Cedar Shakes Class A Fire Rated System |
$13.80 | $1,380 | $23,460 |
| Metal Roofing Exposed Fastener Panels (Aluminum, Basic Coating) |
$10.00 | $1,000 | $17,000 |
| Metal Roofing Exposed Fastener Panels (Steel, Basic Coating) |
$7.50 | $750 | $12,750 |
| Metal Roofing Exposed Fastener Panels (Steel, PVDF/Kynar Coated) |
$9.35 | $935 | $15,895 |
| Metal Roofing Metal Shingles (Aluminum, Basic Coating) |
$12.75 | $1,275 | $21,675 |
| Metal Roofing Metal Shingles (Steel, Basic Coating) |
$9.55 | $955 | $16,235 |
| Metal Roofing Metal Shingles (Steel, PVDF/Kynar Coated) |
$11.90 | $1,190 | $20,230 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Aluminum, Basic Coating) |
$15.45 | $1,545 | $26,265 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Steel, Basic Coating) |
$11.60 | $1,160 | $19,720 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Steel, PVDF/Kynar Coated) |
$14.45 | $1,445 | $24,565 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Copper) |
$30.95 | $3,095 | $52,615 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Zinc) |
$20.95 | $2,095 | $35,615 |
| Metal Roofing Flat Seam Metal (Copper, Soldered Seams) |
$36.40 | $3,640 | $61,880 |
| Slate Roofing Hard Natural Slate (Grade S1) “Standard” 1/4″ Thick |
$24.05 | $2,405 | $40,885 |
| Slate Roofing Hard Natural Slate (Grade S1) “Rough Texture” 1/4″ to 3/8″ Thick |
$26.75 | $2,675 | $45,475 |
| Slate Roofing Hard Natural Slate (Grade S1) “Architectural” 3/8″ to 1/2″ Thick |
$31.25 | $3,125 | $53,125 |
| Synthetic Composite Synthetic Composite Shingles (Engineered Polymeric Tile) |
$11.45 | $1,145 | $19,465 |
| Tile Roofing Clay Tile Flat Profile (Shingle Style) |
$15.40 | $1,540 | $26,180 |
| Tile Roofing Clay Tile Mission (2 Piece) |
$16.30 | $1,630 | $27,710 |
| Tile Roofing Clay Tile S-Profile (1 Piece) |
$14.70 | $1,470 | $24,990 |
| Tile Roofing Clay Tile Premium Styles |
$18.50 | $1,850 | $31,450 |
| Tile Roofing Concrete Tile Flat Profile (Shingle Style) |
$11.70 | $1,170 | $19,890 |
| Tile Roofing Concrete Tile S-Profile (1 Piece) |
$11.20 | $1,120 | $19,040 |
| Tile Roofing Concrete Tile Premium Styles |
$14.00 | $1,400 | $23,800 |
| Tile Roofing Lightweight Concrete Flat Tile (Shingle Style) |
$12.20 | $1,220 | $20,740 |
Table 2: Commercial Roof Costs in Montana
For energy code purposes, all of Montana is located in IECC Climate Zone 6. Commercial low-slope roofs with insulation installed entirely above the deck must meet a minimum of R-30 continuous insulation (R-30ci). These requirements are set by the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). The minimum insulation requirements apply both to new construction and to roof replacements on existing buildings.
While R-30ci satisfies code, building owners may benefit from exceeding this minimum to reduce heating demand during Montana’s long, cold winters and improve building efficiency.
Always verify current R-value requirements with your local code authority, as energy codes are periodically updated.
When performing a roof recover (installing a new roof membrane over an existing one), these insulation requirements generally do not apply. Roof recover projects usually involve adding a layer of cover board over the existing roof system to provide a suitable substrate, followed by the new roof membrane. Keep in mind that roof recovery is not always permitted or advisable.
| Average Cost of a Commercial Low-Slope Roof in Montana | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Roof Type | Average Installed Cost Per Square Foot |
Average Installed Cost Per Square (100 sq. ft.) |
Average Installed Cost Typical Commercial Roof (25,000 sq. ft.) |
| EPDM Roofing Ballasted EPDM 45-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $9.75 | $975 | $243,750 |
| EPDM Roofing Ballasted EPDM 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $10.15 | $1,015 | $253,750 |
| EPDM Roofing Ballasted EPDM 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $4.40 | $440 | $110,000 |
| EPDM Roofing Ballasted EPDM 90-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $10.50 | $1,050 | $262,500 |
| EPDM Roofing Mechanically-Attached EPDM 45-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $12.60 | $1,260 | $315,000 |
| EPDM Roofing Mechanically-Attached EPDM 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.00 | $1,300 | $325,000 |
| EPDM Roofing Mechanically-Attached EPDM 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $4.85 | $485 | $121,250 |
| EPDM Roofing Mechanically-Attached EPDM 75-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.30 | $1,330 | $332,500 |
| EPDM Roofing Fully-Adhered EPDM 45-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $12.85 | $1,285 | $321,250 |
| EPDM Roofing Fully-Adhered EPDM 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.25 | $1,325 | $331,250 |
| EPDM Roofing Fully-Adhered EPDM 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $5.10 | $510 | $127,500 |
| EPDM Roofing Fully-Adhered EPDM 90-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.60 | $1,360 | $340,000 |
| Metal Roofing Exposed Fastener Panels (Aluminum, Basic Coating) | $10.00 | $1,000 | $250,000 |
| Metal Roofing Exposed Fastener Panels (Aluminum, PVDF/Kynar Coated) | $12.50 | $1,250 | $312,500 |
| Metal Roofing Exposed Fastener Panels (Steel, Basic Coating) | $7.50 | $750 | $187,500 |
| Metal Roofing Exposed Fastener Panels (Steel, PVDF/Kynar Coated) | $9.35 | $935 | $233,750 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Aluminum, Basic Coating) | $15.45 | $1,545 | $386,250 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Aluminum, PVDF/Kynar Coated) | $19.35 | $1,935 | $483,750 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Steel, Basic Coating) | $11.60 | $1,160 | $290,000 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Steel, PVDF/Kynar Coated) | $14.45 | $1,445 | $361,250 |
| Modified Bitumen Roofing APP-Modified Bitumen 2-Ply System With R-30 Insulation | $15.25 | $1,525 | $381,250 |
| Modified Bitumen Roofing APP-Modified Bitumen 2-Ply System No Additional Insulation | $8.35 | $835 | $208,750 |
| Modified Bitumen Roofing APP-Modified Bitumen 3-Ply System With R-30 Insulation | $17.75 | $1,775 | $443,750 |
| Modified Bitumen Roofing SBS-Modified Bitumen 2-Ply System With R-30 Insulation | $15.70 | $1,570 | $392,500 |
| Modified Bitumen Roofing SBS-Modified Bitumen 2-Ply System No Additional Insulation | $8.80 | $880 | $220,000 |
| Modified Bitumen Roofing SBS-Modified Bitumen 3-Ply System With R-30 Insulation | $18.45 | $1,845 | $461,250 |
| PVC Roofing Mechanically-Attached PVC 50-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.05 | $1,305 | $326,250 |
| PVC Roofing Mechanically-Attached PVC 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.40 | $1,340 | $335,000 |
| PVC Roofing Mechanically-Attached PVC 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $5.30 | $530 | $132,500 |
| PVC Roofing Mechanically-Attached PVC 80-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.70 | $1,370 | $342,500 |
| PVC Roofing Fully-Adhered PVC 50-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.30 | $1,330 | $332,500 |
| PVC Roofing Fully-Adhered PVC 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.65 | $1,365 | $341,250 |
| PVC Roofing Fully-Adhered PVC 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $5.55 | $555 | $138,750 |
| PVC Roofing Fully-Adhered PVC 80-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $14.00 | $1,400 | $350,000 |
| PVC KEE Roofing Mechanically-Attached PVC KEE 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $14.55 | $1,455 | $363,750 |
| PVC KEE Roofing Fully-Adhered PVC KEE 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $14.80 | $1,480 | $370,000 |
| PVC KEE Roofing Fully-Adhered PVC KEE 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $6.70 | $670 | $167,500 |
| PVC KEE Roofing Fully-Adhered PVC KEE 80-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $15.15 | $1,515 | $378,750 |
| Spray Polyurethane Foam SPF 5-Inch Thick Silicone Coating Light Prep | $10.45 | $1,045 | $261,250 |
| Spray Polyurethane Foam SPF 5-Inch Thick Silicone Coating Heavy Prep | $12.05 | $1,205 | $301,250 |
| TPO Roofing Ballasted TPO 45-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $9.50 | $950 | $237,500 |
| TPO Roofing Ballasted TPO 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $9.85 | $985 | $246,250 |
| TPO Roofing Ballasted TPO 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $4.15 | $415 | $103,750 |
| TPO Roofing Ballasted TPO 80-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $10.25 | $1,025 | $256,250 |
| TPO Roofing Mechanically-Attached TPO 45-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $12.40 | $1,240 | $310,000 |
| TPO Roofing Mechanically-Attached TPO 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $12.75 | $1,275 | $318,750 |
| TPO Roofing Mechanically-Attached TPO 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $4.65 | $465 | $116,250 |
| TPO Roofing Mechanically-Attached TPO 80-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.05 | $1,305 | $326,250 |
| TPO Roofing Fully-Adhered TPO 45-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $12.60 | $1,260 | $315,000 |
| TPO Roofing Fully-Adhered TPO 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.00 | $1,300 | $325,000 |
| TPO Roofing Fully-Adhered TPO 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $4.85 | $485 | $121,250 |
| TPO Roofing Fully-Adhered TPO 80-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.35 | $1,335 | $333,750 |
Further Reading: Roof Cost Details by Roofing Type
- Asphalt Shingle Roof Cost Guide
- Cedar Shake & Shingle Roof Cost Guide
- Copper Roof Cost Guide
- EPDM Rubber Roof Cost Guide
- Metal Roof Cost Guide
- Modified Bitumen Roof Cost Guide
- PVC Membrane Roof Cost Guide
- Shingle Roof Cost Guide
- Single-Ply Roofing Cost Guide (EPDM, PVC, TPO)
- Slate Roof Cost Guide
- Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing Cost Guide
- Standing Seam Metal Roofing Cost Guide
- Tile Roof Cost Guide
- TPO Membrane Roof Cost Guide
About the Author
Jack Gray spent 20 years as a principal roof consultant with the Moriarty Corporation, an award-winning building enclosure consultant firm founded in 1967. Mr. Gray has worked in the roofing industry for over 25 years, with training and practical experience in roof installation, roof inspection, roof safety, roof condition assessment, construction estimating, roof design & specification, quality assurance, roof maintenance & repair, and roof asset management. He was awarded the Registered Roof Observer (RRO) professional credential in 2009. He also served as an infantry paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division and has a B.A. from Cornell University.