If you’re starting your roof replacement journey, a key question you’ll likely ask is: “how much do most roofers charge per square?” This is the industry standard unit for pricing, and understanding it can save you thousands in negotiations and planning.

Key Takeaways
💡In Knoxville, roofers charge between $350 and $700 per square depending on material and complexity.
💡A square equals 100 square feet of roofing surface
💡Price includes tear-off, underlayment, flashing, and installation.
Knoxville Roofing Costs Per Square
Roofing Material | Low-End ($/Sq) | High-End ($/Sq) |
---|---|---|
3-Tab Shingles | $350 | $450 |
Architectural Shingles | $450 | $600 |
Metal Roofing | $700 | $1,000 |
Premium Slate/Tile | $1,000+ | $2,000+ |
Data sourced from HomeAdvisor, RoofCalc.org, and local Knoxville estimates.
What Affects Roofing Cost Per Square?
- Roof complexity: More valleys and chimneys mean more work.
- Tear-off layers: More layers = more labor.
- Material weight: Heavy materials increase labor cost.
- Access: Difficult-to-reach roofs cost more.
Pros and Cons of Per Square Pricing
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Easy to compare quotes | Doesn’t reveal hidden costs |
Standardized across U.S. | Can confuse non-industry folks |
Helps budget planning | Can vary widely by region |
Web Ratings of Roofing Cost Tools
Tool/Source | Rating | Best For |
---|---|---|
RoofCalc.org | 4.7 | Estimating cost per square |
Litespeed Construction | 4.9 | Accurate local quotes |
HomeGuide | 4.6 | National average cost info |

FAQs about Roofing Charge Per Square
100 square feet of roofing surface.
It standardizes pricing.
Yes, unless stated otherwise.
Slightly lower due to regional labor costs.
Yes, by bundling services or off-season scheduling.
3-tab asphalt shingles.
Most do—always confirm.
Yes, 3–8% yearly due to inflation and supply issues.
20–30 squares.
Use both for clarity and comparison.