How Roof Size and Pitch Affect the Cost of Your Memphis Roof
When Memphis or Collierville homeowners start shopping for a new roof, one of the first questions we hear is:
“Why does the price vary so much between houses that look about the same size?”
The answer often comes down to two key factors: roof size and roof pitch.
At Restoration Roofing, we believe in being transparent about what affects the cost of your new roof. Let’s break down what these two factors mean, and how they can impact the final price.
1. What Do We Mean by “Roof Size”?
When roofers talk about “size,” we don’t measure in square feet like carpet or tile. Instead, we measure in “squares.”
One roofing square = 100 square feet of roof surface.
So, a 20-square roof means about 2,000 square feet of roof area.
Naturally, the larger the roof, the more shingles, underlayment, flashing, and labor are required — which drives up cost.
2. What Is Roof Pitch?
Pitch is simply the slope or steepness of your roof.
- A low-pitch roof looks almost flat — think of a ranch-style home in Collierville.
- A steep-pitch roof has a sharp angle, often seen on larger two-story homes in Germantown or East Memphis.
Pitch matters because it affects how safe and how fast roofers can work. Steeper roofs require:
- Extra safety harnesses and equipment
- Slower, more careful installation
- More labor hours
That added difficulty increases the cost per square.
3. Real Example: 20-Square Roof in Memphis
Let’s look at two real-world examples.
- Low-Slope 20-Square Roof
- Around $550 per square
- Total: $11,000
- Steep-Slope 20-Square Roof
- Around $600–$650 per square
- Total: $12,000–$13,000
The difference comes down to the extra time, labor, and safety required to install shingles on a steep slope.
4. Why This Matters for Memphis & Collierville Homeowners
In our area, homes vary widely — from flat-roofed Midtown bungalows to steep-pitched estates in Collierville.
If you’re comparing roofing quotes, make sure you’re comparing apples to apples. A quote for a low-slope roof will naturally be lower than one for a steep roof, even if the home square footage is the same.
That’s why at Restoration Roofing, we provide a detailed inspection and transparent estimate before we ever sign a contract. We want you to know exactly what drives the cost so there are no surprises.
5. Other Factors That Can Impact Cost
While size and pitch are major factors, a few other things can affect roofing prices in Memphis and the surrounding areas:
- The type of shingle (3-tab vs. architectural vs. designer)
- Roof complexity (valleys, dormers, chimneys)
- Tear-off vs. nail-over installation
- Decking repairs or rotten wood replacement
- Local code requirements in Shelby County
Work With Restoration Roofing
At Restoration Roofing, we understand that choosing a roofing contractor isn’t just about comparing prices — it’s about choosing a partner who will be honest, transparent, and dependable from start to finish.
Whether your home has a simple low-slope roof or a complex, steep-pitched structure, our experienced team will walk you through every detail — from measurements to material choices — and provide a clear, fair estimate with no hidden fees.
We proudly serve Memphis, Collierville, Germantown, Arlington, Olive Branch, and beyond, and we’re committed to delivering quality craftsmanship and peace of mind on every roof we touch.
Call Restoration Roofing today at (901) 854-3402 or book your FREE roof inspection online. Let us help you get the perfect roof — at the right price — for your home.
Choose Restoration Roofing and get the protection your home deserves. Give us a call at 901-854-3402 or fill out our Contact Us form and we will reach out to you with our next available inspection. Make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more tips on finding the best roofing contractor for you.
If you’re ready for a free inspection and honest estimate, give our team a call today.
