In Delaware, most full roof replacements fall between the mid-$6,000s and low-$20,000s depending on size, material, tear-off, and code requirements, with asphalt shingles on the low end and slate on the high end.
If you’re budgeting a new roof in Delaware this year, start with the basics: roof size (in squares), material, tear-off and repair scope, and local code/permit requirements. Third-party pricing snapshots for Delaware place typical replacement totals near $7,967 on average, with a broad $6,166–$20,478 range depending on your home and choices. Those numbers line up with what we see in bids across New Castle, Kent, and Sussex Counties.
Common materials and typical ranges (1,800–2,200 sq. ft. home)
- Asphalt shingles: Delaware’s most common and most budget-friendly choice. National and local cost trackers put installed pricing roughly in the $4–$5 per sq. ft. neighborhood for standard architectural shingles, with premium, impact-rated, or coastal packages costing more. Asphalt keeps upfront cost down, but plan for periodic maintenance in coastal zones.
- Metal (standing seam/panels): Higher upfront cost, longer service life, great wind performance when properly detailed. Coastal communities in Sussex County often consider metal for durability and lower maintenance.
- Cedar shake/slate/premium systems: These sit at the top of the price spectrum. They’re selected for design, historical fit, or longevity and require pro installation.
What drives your number up or down
- Tear-off layers & deck repairs. A single-layer tear-off is quicker and cheaper than stripping two layers, and any damaged sheathing adds cost. In New Castle County, replacing the roof covering alone generally doesn’t require a building permit unless you’re repairing/replacing more than 25% of the sheathing—but once decking repairs cross that threshold, permitting and inspections apply (which adds time and some administrative cost).
- Pitch and access. Steeper roofs and tight driveways increase labor.
- Underlayment & ice barrier. Local code officials can require an ice barrier at eaves for certain materials; even when not mandated, homeowners sometimes choose upgraded underlayments for better moisture control.
- Flashing & ventilation. Correct flashing, balanced intake/exhaust, and ridge work help shingles last and reduce moisture problems—smart investments in Delaware’s humid climate.
- Warranty level. Enhanced manufacturer warranties often require using matched components and certified installers, slightly increasing materials cost but improving long-term value.
The Delaware climate factor
Delaware sits in IECC Climate Zone 4A (mixed-humid). That means summer humidity and year-round moisture management matter. Ventilation, air sealing at penetrations, and correct underlayment choices help your roof assembly perform better over time. Energy code updates in the state track modern IECC versions, which influence related envelope and ventilation details.
Storms and coastal exposure
Delaware’s coast sees high winds and frequent storm events. The NOAA/NCEI Storm Events Database tracks wind and hail incidents by county and date—useful context when planning material and fastening requirements (e.g., wind ratings, starter/edge securement). If your property is exposed along the shore or in open terrain, discuss wind uplift, fastener patterns, and edge metal with your contractor.
How to read bids apples-to-apples
- Confirm tear-off layers, dump fees, and whether decking replacement is included per sheet.
- Ask for underlayment type (synthetic vs felt), ice/water shield coverage, and flashing scope.
- Verify ventilation changes (new intake or ridge vents).
- Check that the proposal references code compliance for your city or county, not generic language.
Bottom line
A well-specified asphalt shingle roof is still the value leader for most Delaware homes. If you’re near the coast or want lower maintenance over time, metal may pencil out over the long run. Either way, clear scope, code-compliant details, and proper ventilation make the biggest difference in service life.
