Labour is the most expensive part of replacing a roof. It typically accounts for 50–60% of the total cost. On a standard semi-D re-roof costing €9,000, roughly €4,500–€5,400 goes on the roofers' time.

After labour, materials are the second biggest cost. And within materials, your tile or slate choice has the biggest impact.

Here is how a typical semi-D roof replacement breaks down in 2026:

Cost itemApproximate cost% of total
Labour (crew of 2–3, 4–6 days)€3,800–€5,20050–58%
Tiles / slates€1,200–€3,50016–25%
Membrane and battens€600–€9007–9%
Skip hire and waste disposal€600–€9006–8%
Ridge tiles and flashings€400–€7004–6%
VAT (13.5%)Included in above—
**Scaffolding (separate)**€1,200–€2,000Extra

Why is labour so expensive?

Roofing is skilled work done at height. It requires trained, insured tradespeople who know what they are doing in all weather conditions. A roofer in Ireland charges €300–€450 per day depending on location. Dublin rates are at the top end.

Speed also affects cost. A roof with lots of angles, valleys, a chimney or Velux windows takes longer to work around than a simple gable roof. Each additional feature adds hours.

The hidden cost that often overtakes everything else

Rotten timber underneath the old tiles. When you strip a roof on a house that is 25 years or older, you frequently find rotten roof beams that must be replaced before the new tiles go on. Each beam repair costs €400–€800. Four to six bad beams add €1,600–€4,800 to the final bill.

Budget 10–15% extra on any quote for this. A roofer who does not mention the possibility of hidden timber damage is not giving you the full picture.

More resources: Hidden costs of roof replacement · Roof cost per m² Ireland · What a quote should include