What tear-off means
A tear-off is stripping the existing roofing down to the deck before new roofing goes on.
Also called roof tear off, strip.
Where it matters on a roofing job
Tear-off is priced per square and per layer, plus disposal. It lets you see and replace bad decking, which a roof-over hides. Put the number of existing layers in the estimate, because a second layer found on the roof is a real cost.
What the model code says
- A roof-over is not allowed where the existing roof already has two or more layers of any roof covering. (IRC 2021, Chapter 9)
Check which code edition your building department enforces for tear-off before you quote.
What it costs
Koira's roof replacement cost guide puts a typical job at $9,350, with most between $5,800 to $13,000. The guide shows its sources and what moves the price. The roof replacement cost calculator prices a job line by line.
Work it out
- Free calculator: Roof replacement cost calculator
- Cost guide: Roof replacement cost
- Free template: Scope of work template
- Licensing: Roofing license rules by state
- Tools, templates and guides: Free roofing resources
Sources: 2021 International Residential Code, Chapter 9, Roof Assemblies (ICC). Checked October 9, 2026.