The cost of roofing depends on several factors, including your location, the height and complexity of the project, and the experience level of your roofing service. It also depends on the size of the area (square metres) that you want roofed which impacts the amount of roofing material and time required to complete the project.

Key costs to plan for include:

1. Investigating and fixing ‘What’s causing the roofing failure?’.
2. Building height and complexity – increases labour and safety equipment.
3. Scaffolding for multi storey or steep roofs – can double the cost.
4. Roofing material type and lifespan – tiles vs metal sheeting vs thatch roofing.
5. Roof waterproofing.
6. Ongoing roof maintenance – extends the life of your roof by 3 to 5 years.
7. Roofing materials and delivery.
8. Hiring a skip and removing rubble – for bigger roof installations.
9. Asbestos removal – by a licensed asbestos contractor.
10. Extra budget for unexpected delays (e.g. roof installations and roof repairs take longer in wet weather).

Our advice: Get a clear, itemised quote

Always ask your roofing contractor for a detailed, itemised quote that includes:

1. Material costs
2. A breakdown of the roof installation and repair phases or steps
3. Labour charges (hourly or daily rates)

There's no universal "per square metre" price — but you can ask your roofing service to break the total cost down into a per-square-metre estimate to help you compare quotes more easily.

Typical daily labour costs:

1. Labourer: R350 - R500
2. Apprentice: R500 - R800
3. Trade qualified: R800 - R1500
4. Experienced main roofing contractor: R2000 - R2500
5. Multi-skilled, experienced contractor: R3500+

For the best results, it’s worth hiring a reputable, experienced roofer to supervise and guide the roof installation team. This ensures high-quality, long-lasting roofing and can save you money in the long run. If needed, rather save up to hire the best roofing service you can afford – the results will be worth it.

How can I keep my roof repair costs down?

Book it through HandymanDirect

1. Appoint a recommended roofing contractor who understands your vision and the best, most affordable way to achieve it.
2. Identify any underlying problems causing the roof to fail or leak before installing a new roof or doing roof repairs. Common problems include damp, loose roof tiles or roof sheeting, wood rot, and celling damage.
3. Choose the best quality roofing materials for your budget to extend the life of your roof and save you on overall costs.
4. Avoid mid-project changes, as they often cause delays and extra costs. Provide images or examples of what you want upfront.
5. Stay involved. Regularly check the roof installation, take progress photos, and address concerns early with your roofer to ensure a high-quality outcome and save on overall costs.
6. When you book your roofing service through HandymanDirect, we’ve got your back. Simply send us a few photos, and we’ll provide an expert opinion - and even speak directly to the roofing contractor on your behalf.
7. Do annual roof maintenance to extend the lifespan of your roof. Ask your roofing company to check and do fascia board, soffit boards and barge board repairs as well as roof painting and roof sealing when it’s needed.