How much does it cost to install a plastic roof?

Reviewed by Adam Graham remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

If you like the look of wood, tile, or slate roofs but need something lighter, less expensive, or lower in maintenance, consider plastic roofing materials. Plastic roofs are made from different blends of polypropylene, along with other synthetic materials. They are a distinct subtype of composite roofing materials and tend to be lightweight, durable, and easy to install. They come in many styles, from individual shingles to large panels that can mimic the look of a tile roof.

All these variations create a range in the total costs. The national average cost to cover a roof in plastic roofing materials is $8,000 to $12,000, with most people paying around $10,000 for a 2,000 sq.ft. plastic composite shingle roof with a slate style. This project’s low cost is $6,000 for an installed 2,0000 sq.ft. plastic shingle roof made of tile-look panels. The high cost is $14,000 for an installed 2,000 sq.ft. plastic composite shingle roof in a wood shake style on a complex roof with a high pitch, dormers, and multiple protrusions.

Plastic Roof Shingles Cost Calculator

Plastic roofs come in many styles and qualities. Plastic roofing panels tend to cost the least to purchase and install. Polymer slate and cedar-look shingles containing recycled materials and ones formulated for extra durability tend to cost the most. There is also a range of mid-cost materials in several colors and styles. Below are the average costs to shingle a 2,000 sq.ft. roof broken down by the quality levels.

Plastic roof shingles are generally lightweight, low-maintenance, and highly durable. The individual shingles can look very similar to slate or cedar shingles while being flame-retardant, lightweight, and durable. They hold up well to high winds, hail, and inclement weather, and because they are plastic, they also do well in wet areas. Most have a 50-year warranty, although the best-quality shingles may have limited lifetime warranties. Lower-quality plastic roofing materials tend to be larger sheets, so they install very quickly, but they may not look as nice as individual shingles.

While many higher-end materials can and do contain recycled material, the materials are difficult to recycle at the end of their lifespan. So, these cannot be considered sustainable or eco-friendly materials.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Maintenance. Plastic and polymer roofs are very low-maintenance. They should be inspected yearly and cleaned as needed. Otherwise, they do not require much from the homeowner.
• Sustainability. Some higher-end polymer shingles contain recycled material. However, the shingles themselves cannot be easily recycled, making them only a moderately sustainable roofing material.
• Energy efficiency. Plastic and polymer roofs tend to reflect heat and energy well and do not have high thermal transfer rates. This keeps your energy use down over the years.
• Repairs. Like any roofing material, your plastic roof may need repairs over time. This may include replacing shingles or flashing. Expect costs of around $300 to $500 for most repairs.