Fiberglass shingles are a popular and durable form of asphalt shingles. Because they have a paper base (otherwise known as a fiberglass mat), they’re more fire-resistant, water-resistant, and ideal for hot climates.
However, you’ll quickly find that fiberglass shingles are among the costlier options because they’re expensive to design, create, and install.
If you’re interested in a full fiberglass shingles cost breakdown, we’ve done the legwork to estimate what this roofing material will cost. This guide covers how much fiberglass shingles cost, the pros and cons of fiberglass shingles versus other roofing materials, and much more.
What Is the Cost of Fiberglass Shingles?
Fiberglass shingles, especially high-end ones, are expensive. On average, you can expect to pay around $19,950 for the raw material and installation of fiberglass shingles on your roof. If you have a smaller roof or opt for a less expensive type of fiberglass shingle, you can expect to pay closer to $14,000, with higher-end shingles costing upwards of $25,000 for a new roof.
The cost of fiberglass shingles can vary depending on which ones you choose. Read on for a complete breakdown and comparison between the types of fiberglass shingles.
Fiberglass Shingles Cost for Materials and Installation
| Per Square Foot | Per Square (100 Sq. Ft.) | Per Project | |
| Average Cost | $6.65 | $665 | $19,950 |
| Lowest Cost | $4.75 | $475 | $14,250 |
| Highest Cost | $8.60 | $860 | $25,800 |
*Costs based on a 3,000-square-foot roof
How Much Do Fiberglass Shingles Cost by Type?
Fiberglass shingles come in two primary types: Architectural shingles and 3-tab fiberglass shingles. Both types have their own distinct look and different price point to consider:
| Types of Fiberglass Shingles | Average Cost |
| Architectural Shingles | $4.50–$7 per square foot |
| 3-Tab Fiberglass Shingles | $1–$5 per square foot |
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles are the most expensive type of fiberglass shingles at $4.50 to $7 per square foot. However, they can increase the value of your home and have a much longer life span of 30 to 50 years compared to traditional shingles. This type of shingle is often the standard for high-end homes because of its beautiful look and durability.
Pros
- Highly durable
- Usually last 30 years or more
- Typically comes with a limited lifetime warranty
- Offered in many styles
- Can withstand strong winds
Cons
- Expensive
- More complicated to install
3 Fiberglass Shingles
Three fiberglass shingles, or 3-tab shingles, are the most common and inexpensive type of fiberglass roof. They can cost as little as $1 per square foot but up to $5 per square foot. Their name comes from the tabs or cutouts, which create a longer edge, mimicking the look of three separate pieces when installed (despite only being one piece).
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to install
- 15–20 year life span in mild climates
Cons
- Not as durable as other roofing materials
- Limited customization options
How Much Do Fiberglass Shingles Cost by Square Footage?
If you’re interested in a DIY fiberglass shingles roofing project, you’ll need to know the exact cost of the raw materials. Start by calculating how many square feet of materialsyou’ll need, then reference the following table that explains the average cost by roof size.
| Roof Size | Typical Price Range | Average Cost |
| 1,000 sq. ft. | $4,750–$8,600 | $6,650 |
| 1,500 sq. ft. | $7,125–$12,900 | $9,975 |
| 2,000 sq. ft. | $9,500–$17,200 | $13,300 |
| 2,500 sq. ft. | $11,875–$21,500 | $16,625 |
| 3,000 sq. ft. | $14,250–$25,800 | $19,950 |
| 3,500 sq. ft. | $16,625–$30,100 | $23,275 |
| 4,000 sq. ft. | $19,000–$34,400 | $26,600 |
Which Factors Impact The Cost of a Fiberglass Shingles Roof?
Average numbers for the cost of fiberglass shingles provide insight into roughly how much it costs to install a fiberglass roof. However, the following factors can determine how much you’ll spend completing this home improvement project.
Roofing Material
The cost of a fiberglass roof installation varies significantly based on the type of shingle you choose. Architectural fiberglass shingles will cost anywhere from $9,000 to $15,000 or about $12,000 for a 1,500-square-foot roof on average.
Three-tab shingles are a more budget-friendly option, costing around $5,000 to $10,000 on average or approximately $6,000 for a 1,500-square-foot roof for the raw material alone.
Square Footage
The size of your roof determines how much raw material you’ll need to replace your existing roof. The majority of roofing materials are priced based on the size and square footage of your roof, so having a bigger home means you’ll end up with a higher cost for a roof replacement.
Location
Where you live affects taxes, the cost of labor, shipping costs, and even manufacturing costs. When considering different roof types, like an asphalt roof versus a fiberglass roof, look into the cost of raw materials, where they’re being shipped from, and how this may increase or reduce the overall cost.
Professional Vs. DIY Fiberglass Shingles Installation Cost
Roofing projects are typically best left to a roofing contractor because correctly installing fiberglass shingles requires training and expertise — and working on the roof can be very dangerous.
However, hiring a professional to install your fiberglass shingles roof will be more expensive, with the average cost being around $19,950. A DIY project will only cost the price of the raw materials, which is approximately $13,500 for the same-size roof with architectural shingles.
Installing Fiberglass Shingles Yourself
Without expert help, installing fiberglass shingles yourself can be very dangerous. If you fall off your roof, you may experience severe pain, internal bleeding, broken bones, harm to different body parts, and even death. Fiberglass shingle installation is also detailed work that requires a specific skill set, one which many homeowners don’t possess.
Hiring a Professional for Fiberglass Shingles Installation
Reputable roofers are the key to ensuring your fiberglass roof is installed correctly. When properly installed, fiberglass shingles can last decades and significantly improve your home’s curb appeal at the same time. Here are our recommendations for hiring a professional to install these organic shingles:
- Get a quote from a few providers: Call several roofing experts and ask them for a free consultation and quote for the roofing project.
- Consult them about their recommendations: Ask them about their recommendations for your roofing project, if you need to replace your old roof entirely, and what other improvements they would make to the roof.
- Get everything in writing: If it’s not in writing, you have nothing to reference or refer to in case something happens or the project is derailed.
So, Are Fiberglass Shingles Worth the Investment?
Are fiberglass shingles worth the higher price point? Generally speaking, paying for a fiberglass shingle roof is worth it for many homeowners, thanks to the material’s durability. These shingles last anywhere from 20 to 50 years and are low maintenance, making it easy to save money on roofing costs once you’ve paid for the roof.
However, if you live in a cold climate, consult a professional roofer before choosing your new shingles, as many fiberglass shingles don’t hold up well during prolonged low temperatures.
FAQs About Fiberglass Shingles
Are Fiberglass Shingles the Same as Asphalt Shingles?
No, fiberglass shingles aren’t the same as traditional asphalt shingles. Fiberglass shingles have a paper or felt base and start with a mat of wet fiberglass, which improves their ability to resist water and fire. A fiberglass shingle roof is also more durable than an asphalt shingle roof and has a longer expected lifespan.
Are Fiberglass Shingles Expensive?
Fiberglass shingles can be more expensive, especially if you choose the high-end architectural shingles type. However, 3-tab shingles are less expensive, with prices as low as $1 per square foot. Most homeowners can find fiberglass shingles at a price point that fits their budget.
What Are the Disadvantages of Fiberglass Shingles?
Fiberglass roofing shingles are more sensitive to cold. Prolonged exposure to cold weather can break them down faster than asphalt shingles because fiberglass isn’t a heavy, rugged material. However, these shingles hold up well in hot climates, so it really just depends on your location.
What Is the Life Expectancy of a Fiberglass Roof?
According to our research, most roofing companies have a guarantee of at least 25 years on fiberglass roofing products. In many cases, these composite shingles will last anywhere from 20 to 50 years, making them an excellent long-term investment and value for many homeowners.
