Table of Contents
Introduction
In this article, I’ll give you the typical costs for installing a new roof in West Virginia 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, West Virginia labor costs, and other relevant factors, including roofing project values from actual West Virginia 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.
Roof replacement costs in West Virginia tend to be somewhat below the national average, with statewide construction costs averaging about 7 percent lower than the U.S. average. (Compare with 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 popular residential roof covering in West Virginia, but alternatives like metal panels, cedar shingles and shakes, and natural slate are also used. Commercial low-slope roofs commonly use single-ply membranes (EPDM, TPO, and PVC), modified bitumen, or spray polyurethane foam.
On average, West Virginia residential roof replacement prices in 2025 typically range from around $5.50 per square foot for basic asphalt shingles to around $32 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 $55,000 depending on the material selected.
Commercial roofing often costs more than people expect, largely because of insulation requirements. Board insulation is normally installed as part of a low-slope roof system, and typically costs about $1.00 to $1.50 per square foot per inch of thickness, while providing roughly R-4 to R-6 per inch.
Commercial roof replacement prices in West Virginia generally range from around $4.50 per square foot for a ballasted EPDM overlay with no new insulation to around $16 per square foot for a 2-ply modified bitumen system with enough insulation to meet the West Virginia energy code R-30 requirement for roofs with insulation entirely above the deck.
The tables below provide cost information for all roof types and systems.
Climate Considerations for West Virginia Roofs
West Virginia’s climate is primarily humid continental, with some humid subtropical in the lower elevations of the southern counties. Winters are generally cold, with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing, and snowfall is common in the Allegheny Highlands and higher mountain areas. The eastern panhandle tends to be somewhat milder, while the mountains can experience heavy snow and ice storms. Summers are warm to hot and humid across much of the state, often accompanied by thunderstorms and periods of heavy rainfall. Average annual precipitation ranges from about 32 inches in the eastern panhandle to over 60 inches in the higher mountain regions, making West Virginia one of the wetter states in the Mid-Atlantic.
Heating degree days are much higher than cooling degree days throughout the state, especially in the central and northern regions. Because of this, reflective “cool” roofing is less of a concern, and darker roofing materials may actually be better because it absorbs solar heat in the winter instead of reflecting it away. Roof algae (caused by Gloeocapsa magma) can be a problem for asphalt shingles in West Virginia, and black or dark gray shingles can help hide the black streaks better than light-colored shingles.
Given these conditions, homeowners and property managers in West Virginia should keep the following points in mind:
- Asphalt shingles are the most common and affordable roofing material. Algae-resistant shingles are recommended to minimize black streaking and biological growth. Dark shingles are probably better than light-colored shingles.
- Proper ventilation and underlayment are essential. Roof assemblies should include balanced ventilation, quality underlayment, and properly-installed ice-and-water shield to protect against freeze-thaw cycles and ice damming. Improper roof/attic ventilation can void your roof warranty.
- Metal roofing is a performs well in West Virginia’s climate, as it sheds snow and ice effectively and resists high winds and heavy rainfall. PVDF-coated aluminum or steel panels provide durability, low maintenance, and long-lasting color retention.
- Slate, tile, and cedar shakes also perform well when installed with correct flashing and drainage details to handle snow loads and ice buildup. For cedar products, Class A fire-rated assemblies are recommended, and copper or zinc strips can help reduce algae, moss, and mildew growth in the humid climate.
- Insulation and attic air sealing are important to reduce heating costs and prevent ice dams. A well-insulated attic space with air-sealed penetrations can improve comfort while protecting the roof system from overheating or ice dam damage.
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 West Virginia. 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, 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 West Virginia
| Average Cost of a Residential Pitched Roof in West Virginia | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
$5.20 | $520 | $8,840 |
| Asphalt Shingles Architectural or Dimensional Shingles |
$5.70 | $570 | $9,690 |
| Asphalt Shingles Luxury or Premium Shingles |
$7.10 | $710 | $12,070 |
| Cedar Shake & Shingle Red Cedar Shingles |
$12.95 | $1,295 | $22,015 |
| Cedar Shake & Shingle Red Cedar Shingles Class A Fire Rated System |
$14.55 | $1,455 | $24,735 |
| Cedar Shake & Shingle Red Cedar Shakes |
$12.50 | $1,250 | $21,250 |
| Cedar Shake & Shingle Red Cedar Shakes Class A Fire Rated System |
$14.10 | $1,410 | $23,970 |
| Metal Roofing Exposed Fastener Panels (Aluminum, Basic Coating) |
$10.25 | $1,025 | $17,425 |
| Metal Roofing Exposed Fastener Panels (Steel, Basic Coating) |
$7.65 | $765 | $13,005 |
| Metal Roofing Exposed Fastener Panels (Steel, PVDF/Kynar Coated) |
$9.55 | $955 | $16,235 |
| Metal Roofing Metal Shingles (Aluminum, Basic Coating) |
$13.00 | $1,300 | $22,100 |
| Metal Roofing Metal Shingles (Steel, Basic Coating) |
$9.75 | $975 | $16,575 |
| Metal Roofing Metal Shingles (Steel, PVDF/Kynar Coated) |
$12.20 | $1,220 | $20,740 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Aluminum, Basic Coating) |
$15.80 | $1,580 | $26,860 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Steel, Basic Coating) |
$11.85 | $1,185 | $20,145 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Steel, PVDF/Kynar Coated) |
$14.80 | $1,480 | $25,160 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Copper) |
$31.60 | $3,160 | $53,720 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Zinc) |
$21.40 | $2,140 | $36,380 |
| Metal Roofing Flat Seam Metal (Copper, Soldered Seams) |
$37.20 | $3,720 | $63,240 |
| Slate Roofing Hard Natural Slate (Grade S1) “Standard” 1/4″ Thick |
$22.40 | $2,240 | $38,080 |
| Slate Roofing Hard Natural Slate (Grade S1) “Rough Texture” 1/4″ to 3/8″ Thick |
$24.85 | $2,485 | $42,245 |
| Slate Roofing Hard Natural Slate (Grade S1) “Architectural” 3/8″ to 1/2″ Thick |
$29.05 | $2,905 | $49,385 |
| Synthetic Composite Synthetic Composite Shingles (Engineered Polymeric Tile) |
$11.70 | $1,170 | $19,890 |
| Tile Roofing Clay Tile Flat Profile (Shingle Style) |
$14.30 | $1,430 | $24,310 |
| Tile Roofing Clay Tile Mission (2 Piece) |
$15.15 | $1,515 | $25,755 |
| Tile Roofing Clay Tile S-Profile (1 Piece) |
$13.65 | $1,365 | $23,205 |
| Tile Roofing Clay Tile Premium Styles |
$17.20 | $1,720 | $29,240 |
| Tile Roofing Concrete Tile Flat Profile (Shingle Style) |
$10.90 | $1,090 | $18,530 |
| Tile Roofing Concrete Tile S-Profile (1 Piece) |
$10.40 | $1,040 | $17,680 |
| Tile Roofing Concrete Tile Premium Styles |
$13.00 | $1,300 | $22,100 |
| Tile Roofing Lightweight Concrete Flat Tile (Shingle Style) |
$11.35 | $1,135 | $19,295 |
Table 2: Commercial Roof Costs in West Virginia
For energy code purposes, West Virginia spans IECC Climate Zones 4 and 5, and both require commercial low-slope roofs with insulation entirely above the deck to meet a minimum of R-30 continuous insulation (R-30ci). These requirements are established by the West Virginia State Building Code, which is based on ASHRAE Standard 90.1. The minimum insulation levels apply to both new construction and roof replacements on existing buildings.
Always verify current R-value requirements with your local building department, as code requirements can change.
When performing a roof recover (installing a new roof over an existing one), this insulation requirement typically does not apply. Roof recover projects generally involve installing a layer of cover board over the existing 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 West Virginia | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | $9.95 | $995 | $248,750 |
| EPDM Roofing Ballasted EPDM 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $10.35 | $1,035 | $258,750 |
| EPDM Roofing Ballasted EPDM 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $4.50 | $450 | $112,500 |
| EPDM Roofing Ballasted EPDM 90-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $10.75 | $1,075 | $268,750 |
| EPDM Roofing Mechanically-Attached EPDM 45-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $12.90 | $1,290 | $322,500 |
| EPDM Roofing Mechanically-Attached EPDM 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.30 | $1,330 | $332,500 |
| EPDM Roofing Mechanically-Attached EPDM 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $4.95 | $495 | $123,750 |
| EPDM Roofing Mechanically-Attached EPDM 75-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.60 | $1,360 | $340,000 |
| EPDM Roofing Fully-Adhered EPDM 45-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.10 | $1,310 | $327,500 |
| EPDM Roofing Fully-Adhered EPDM 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.55 | $1,355 | $338,750 |
| EPDM Roofing Fully-Adhered EPDM 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $5.20 | $520 | $130,000 |
| EPDM Roofing Fully-Adhered EPDM 90-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.90 | $1,390 | $347,500 |
| Metal Roofing Exposed Fastener Panels (Aluminum, Basic Coating) | $10.25 | $1,025 | $256,250 |
| Metal Roofing Exposed Fastener Panels (Aluminum, PVDF/Kynar Coated) | $12.80 | $1,280 | $320,000 |
| Metal Roofing Exposed Fastener Panels (Steel, Basic Coating) | $7.65 | $765 | $191,250 |
| Metal Roofing Exposed Fastener Panels (Steel, PVDF/Kynar Coated) | $9.55 | $955 | $238,750 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Aluminum, Basic Coating) | $15.80 | $1,580 | $395,000 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Aluminum, PVDF/Kynar Coated) | $19.75 | $1,975 | $493,750 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Steel, Basic Coating) | $11.85 | $1,185 | $296,250 |
| Metal Roofing Standing Seam Metal (Steel, PVDF/Kynar Coated) | $14.80 | $1,480 | $370,000 |
| Modified Bitumen Roofing APP-Modified Bitumen 2-Ply System With R-30 Insulation | $15.60 | $1,560 | $390,000 |
| Modified Bitumen Roofing APP-Modified Bitumen 2-Ply System No Additional Insulation | $8.50 | $850 | $212,500 |
| Modified Bitumen Roofing APP-Modified Bitumen 3-Ply System With R-30 Insulation | $18.15 | $1,815 | $453,750 |
| Modified Bitumen Roofing SBS-Modified Bitumen 2-Ply System With R-30 Insulation | $16.05 | $1,605 | $401,250 |
| Modified Bitumen Roofing SBS-Modified Bitumen 2-Ply System No Additional Insulation | $8.95 | $895 | $223,750 |
| Modified Bitumen Roofing SBS-Modified Bitumen 3-Ply System With R-30 Insulation | $18.85 | $1,885 | $471,250 |
| PVC Roofing Mechanically-Attached PVC 50-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.35 | $1,335 | $333,750 |
| PVC Roofing Mechanically-Attached PVC 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.70 | $1,370 | $342,500 |
| PVC Roofing Mechanically-Attached PVC 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $5.45 | $545 | $136,250 |
| PVC Roofing Mechanically-Attached PVC 80-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $14.00 | $1,400 | $350,000 |
| PVC Roofing Fully-Adhered PVC 50-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.55 | $1,355 | $338,750 |
| PVC Roofing Fully-Adhered PVC 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.95 | $1,395 | $348,750 |
| PVC Roofing Fully-Adhered PVC 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $5.65 | $565 | $141,250 |
| PVC Roofing Fully-Adhered PVC 80-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $14.30 | $1,430 | $357,500 |
| PVC KEE Roofing Mechanically-Attached PVC KEE 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $14.90 | $1,490 | $372,500 |
| PVC KEE Roofing Fully-Adhered PVC KEE 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $15.10 | $1,510 | $377,500 |
| PVC KEE Roofing Fully-Adhered PVC KEE 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $6.85 | $685 | $171,250 |
| PVC KEE Roofing Fully-Adhered PVC KEE 80-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $15.50 | $1,550 | $387,500 |
| Spray Polyurethane Foam SPF 5-Inch Thick Silicone Coating Light Prep | $10.70 | $1,070 | $267,500 |
| Spray Polyurethane Foam SPF 5-Inch Thick Silicone Coating Heavy Prep | $12.35 | $1,235 | $308,750 |
| TPO Roofing Ballasted TPO 45-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $9.70 | $970 | $242,500 |
| TPO Roofing Ballasted TPO 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $10.05 | $1,005 | $251,250 |
| TPO Roofing Ballasted TPO 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $4.25 | $425 | $106,250 |
| TPO Roofing Ballasted TPO 80-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $10.45 | $1,045 | $261,250 |
| TPO Roofing Mechanically-Attached TPO 45-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $12.65 | $1,265 | $316,250 |
| TPO Roofing Mechanically-Attached TPO 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.00 | $1,300 | $325,000 |
| TPO Roofing Mechanically-Attached TPO 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $4.75 | $475 | $118,750 |
| TPO Roofing Mechanically-Attached TPO 80-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.35 | $1,335 | $333,750 |
| TPO Roofing Fully-Adhered TPO 45-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $12.85 | $1,285 | $321,250 |
| TPO Roofing Fully-Adhered TPO 60-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.30 | $1,330 | $332,500 |
| TPO Roofing Fully-Adhered TPO 60-mil Membrane No Additional Insulation | $5.00 | $500 | $125,000 |
| TPO Roofing Fully-Adhered TPO 80-mil Membrane With R-30 Insulation | $13.60 | $1,360 | $340,000 |
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.