When it comes to roofing repairs, replacements, or new installations, one of the most frequently asked questions by homeowners in New Jersey is: “How much do roofers charge per hour?” Roofing is a significant investment that safeguards your property, increases its value, and ensures the safety of its occupants. Understanding the costs involved—especially on an hourly basis—can help you budget wisely and avoid unexpected expenses.
With Charles Jimerson of CJ Commercial Roofing NJ, we’ll break down the average hourly rates for roofers in New Jersey, what factors influence pricing, how to compare quotes, and key considerations that affect your roofing project. Whether you’re in Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, or Trenton, this article will offer valuable insights tailored to your local area.
Average Hourly Rate for Roofers in New Jersey
As of 2025, the average hourly rate roofers charge in New Jersey ranges between $50 and $110, depending on the job complexity, the roofing company’s experience, and your specific location within the state.
General Cost Breakdown:
- Basic roof repairs: $50–$75 per hour
- Moderate repairs (e.g., flashing replacement, minor leaks): $70–$90 per hour
- Complex installations or full replacements: $90–$110+ per hour
These figures include labor costs only. Materials, disposal fees, permits, and equipment rentals are typically billed separately or as part of a project estimate.
Factors That Influence Hourly Roofing Rates in New Jersey
Several variables affect how much you’ll pay for roofing services by the hour. Here are some of the most important:
1. Roof Type and Material
Different materials require different skill sets and tools. For example:
- Asphalt shingles (most common in suburban NJ areas like Princeton and Edison) are easier to install, keeping labor costs lower.
- Slate, tile, or metal roofing—popular in upscale areas like Montclair or Hoboken—require specialized labor and can push rates higher.
2. Pitch and Complexity
A steep or multi-faceted roof design will require additional safety measures and more time, increasing the labor rate. Roofs with chimneys, skylights, dormers, or complex ventilation systems require extra precision and time.
3. Location Within New Jersey
Labor costs can vary across the state. For example:
- In North Jersey (e.g., Paramus, Hackensack), proximity to New York City drives up overhead costs, which are often reflected in labor rates.
- South Jersey (e.g., Cherry Hill, Vineland) may offer slightly lower hourly rates due to less urban density and lower cost of living.
4. Experience and Reputation of the Contractor
Highly rated roofing companies with certifications from organizations like GAF or CertainTeed often charge more per hour due to their advanced skills, insurance, and warranty offerings.
How New Jersey Roofing Contractors Structure Their Pricing
Some contractors like CJ Commercial Roofing NJ, provide flat project quotes instead of hourly rates, especially for large-scale jobs. However, hourly billing is common for:
- Small repairs (like patching leaks)
- Emergency services (e.g., storm damage response)
- Time-and-materials service calls
Be sure to ask whether the rate includes:
- Travel time
- Debris cleanup
- Assistant labor (some contractors bill separately for helpers)
Important LSI Keywords to Know:
Understanding local and related roofing terms helps you identify credible estimates. Here are some Latent Semantic Indexing (LSI) keywords to look for in service descriptions:
- Roof inspection
- Flashing repair
- Shingle replacement
- Emergency roof tarping
- Underlayment installation
- Gutter and soffit repair
What’s Included in an Hourly Roofing Rate?
A professional roofer’s hourly rate typically covers:
- Labor costs
- Basic tools and safety equipment
- Minor consumables (e.g., nails, sealants)
- On-site expertise and troubleshooting
However, materials (e.g., shingles, flashing, tar paper) are often billed separately. Additionally, some contractors in New Jersey include dump fees or permit handling in their quotes—others do not. Always request a detailed scope of work before committing.
Comparing Quotes: Red Flags and Smart Tips
Getting multiple quotes from licensed and insured roofing contractors in New Jersey is essential. Here’s how to evaluate them:
✅ Look For:
- NJ license and insurance verification
- Local reviews (Google, Yelp, Angi)
- In-person inspections before quotes
- Clear breakdown of hourly vs. material costs
🚩 Avoid:
- Extremely low hourly quotes (often signals unlicensed or inexperienced labor)
- Vague scopes of work
- “Today only” discounts or high-pressure sales tactics
Are Roofers in New Jersey Paid Differently Seasonally?
Yes. Roofing demand in New Jersey peaks in late spring through early fall. During these months, contractor availability drops and rates can increase due to higher demand. Scheduling repairs or replacements in early spring or late fall may help you secure better hourly rates and faster service.
Real-World Example: Hourly Roofing Costs in Action
Let’s say you live in Morristown, NJ, and you notice a leak after a spring storm. You call a local roofing contractor who charges $75/hour for minor repairs. The repair—resealing a skylight and replacing damaged shingles—takes 3 hours. Total labor cost = $225, plus $85 for materials and a $50 travel fee, for a total of $360.
If you delayed the call and water damage spread, repairs might have required structural fixes, pushing the labor time to 6–8 hours and doubling your costs.
Hiring a Roofer in New Jersey: What to Ask Before You Sign
To ensure you’re paying fair rates and receiving quality service, ask:
- “Do you charge per hour or provide a flat-rate estimate?”
- “What exactly is included in the hourly fee?”
- “Do you carry liability and worker’s comp insurance?”
- “Can I see recent local project photos or reviews?”
- “How long do you estimate the job will take?”
Final Thoughts: Know Before You Climb
The question “How much do roofers charge per hour?” doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer—but with context, averages, and an understanding of New Jersey’s local factors, you’re far better equipped to budget smartly.
Whether you’re in bustling New Brunswick, coastal Toms River, or the suburbs of Livingston, aligning expectations with real-world rates ensures your roof gets the care it deserves without breaking the bank.
Need a Roofing Estimate in New Jersey?
If you’re unsure how to start, consider contacting local, top-rated New Jersey roofing contractors for a free consultation. Many offer no-obligation site visits to help you understand what your project entails—and how much it will cost—before the first nail is hammered.