Des Moines, IA

How Much Does a New Roof Cost in Des Moines, IA?

Updated 2026 pricing for Des Moines homeowners. Local material costs, labor rates, permit fees, building codes, and climate-specific recommendations for your roof replacement.

Asphalt Shingles

$5,950 – $11,900

1,700 sq ft roof

Standing Seam Metal

$11,900 – $20,400

1,700 sq ft roof

Clay / Concrete Tile

$20,400 – $42,500

1,700 sq ft roof

Average Roof Costs in Des Moines by Material

Material Cost Comparison

Based on average roof size of 1,700 sq ft

Asphalt Shingles

Per Sq Ft

$3.50 – $7.00

Per Square

$350 – $700

Total

$5,950 – $11,900

Standing Seam Metal

Per Sq Ft

$7.00 – $12.00

Per Square

$700 – $1,200

Total

$11,900 – $20,400

Clay / Concrete Tile

Per Sq Ft

$12.00 – $25.00

Per Square

$1,200 – $2,500

Total

$20,400 – $42,500

* Costs include materials and installation labor at Des Moines rates (labor multiplier: 0.88x vs. national average). Population: 215,000 (metro: 700,000).

Cost Breakdown for a 1,700 Sq Ft Roof in Des Moines

Cost Component Estimated Cost
Asphalt Shingles (materials + labor) $5,950 – $11,900
Tear-Off ($110/square × 17 squares) $1,870
Disposal ($42/square × 17 squares) $714
Building Permit (Des Moines) $141 – $500
Estimated Total (Asphalt) $8,675 – $14,984

This breakdown assumes one layer of old shingles to tear off. Multi-layer tear-off, structural repairs, or complex roof geometry will increase costs.

How Des Moines's Climate Affects Your Roof

Humid continental — hot summers (86°F avg highs), cold winters (10°F avg lows), ~36 inches rain, ~35 inches snow, severe weather season March–June with tornadoes, hail, and thunderstorms.

Iowa sits in the central hail corridor — significant hail events damage roofs frequently, especially during spring/early summer severe weather season
Heavy snowfall (35+ inches/year) and freeze-thaw cycles create ice dams at eaves; code requires ice barriers extending 24"+ past exterior wall line
Ground snow load of 33 psf per IRC — wet Midwest snow can stress roof structures, especially on older homes
Severe thunderstorms and occasional tornadoes bring wind gusts exceeding 70 mph, lifting shingles and causing progressive damage

Most Popular Roofing Materials in Des Moines

1

Architectural asphalt shingles

Dominant choice (80%+ of roofs) — excellent price-to-performance for Iowa's 4-season climate; GAF Timberline and CertainTeed Landmark are top sellers

2

Standing seam metal

Growing popularity for durability — sheds snow easily, resists hail better than asphalt, 40–70 year lifespan; good for heavy snowfall areas

3

Impact-resistant (Class 4) shingles

Increasingly popular due to hail exposure — insurance discounts of 15–28% offset the premium; Malarkey and Owens Corning Duration FLEX popular locally

Des Moines Roofing Details

Best Season to Roof

Late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October). Dry, warm weather allows optimal shingle adhesion. Summer is also acceptable. Avoid winter installations when possible.

Permit Costs

Building permits in Des Moines typically cost between $141 and $500. Contact your local building department for exact fees.

Wind Design Speed

115 mph

Average Roof Size

The average residential roof in the Des Moines metro area is approximately 1,900 sq ft.

Des Moines Building Codes & Requirements

Iowa Residential Code 2015 (with 2021 amendments) governs residential roofing
Ice barrier required — self-adhering membrane from eave edge to 24" past interior wall line (36" on steep slopes 8:12+)
Wind resistance — shingles must meet ASTM D7158 classification for local 115 mph design wind speed
Permit required for all new installations, replacements, and significant repairs from local municipality

Des Moines Metro Area

Roofing costs can vary within the Des Moines metro area based on local labor markets and contractor availability. Nearby cities include:

West Des Moines, IA Ankeny, IA Ames, IA Urbandale, IA Johnston, IA

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a roof replacement cost in Des Moines?
For a typical 1,900 sq ft roof with architectural asphalt shingles, expect $6,650–$13,300. Metal roofing runs $13,300–$22,800. Des Moines is about 12% below national average due to Iowa's lower labor costs.
Does Des Moines require a roofing permit?
Yes. Des Moines and Polk County require building permits for roof replacements and significant repairs. Base permit starts at approximately $141. Permits ensure compliance with Iowa Residential Code.
How does Des Moines hail affect my roof's lifespan?
Iowa's hail season (March–June) can reduce an asphalt shingle roof's life to 12–18 years vs. the rated 25–30 years. After major storms, schedule a professional inspection promptly. Most hail damage replacements are covered by insurance.
Is metal roofing a good choice for Des Moines winters?
Yes. Metal roofs shed snow quickly (reducing ice dam risk), handle heavy snow loads, and resist freeze-thaw damage. The higher cost ($7–$12/sq ft vs. $3.50–$7 for asphalt) is offset by 40–70 year lifespan and lower maintenance.
What is an ice barrier and is it required in Des Moines?
An ice barrier is a self-adhering waterproof membrane installed at roof edges to prevent water infiltration from ice dams. Iowa code requires it on all new roofs, extending from eave edge to at least 24" past the interior wall line.

Related Calculators

Helpful Guides

More Roofing Costs in Iowa