What’s the real cost of a new garage roof in Sussex?

It’s the most common question I get, whether I’m working in Hove or giving a quote in Worthing: “Jan, how much for a new garage roof?” The honest answer is it’s not a one-size-fits-all price. Anyone who gives you a flat figure over the phone without seeing the job is guessing, and you’ll be the one who pays for it later.

I believe in fixed-price quotes, so let me break down the real factors that go into the cost of replacing your garage roof. There are no hidden surprises with me, just straight talk.

So, what are the main things that affect the price?

Forget ballpark figures for a minute. The final cost on your quote comes down to four key things:

  • Size: It’s simple maths. A double garage in Brighton will cost more than a single garage because it requires more materials and more labour. I measure every roof precisely.
  • Material Choice: This is a big one. You’ve got three main choices for a flat garage roof, and they all have different price points and lifespans. I’ll get into those in a moment.
  • The Decking: What’s underneath the current felt? If the timber boards (usually OSB or plywood) are soft, rotten, or sagging, they have to be replaced. Putting a brand new roof on a rotten base is like putting new tyres on a broken axle. It’s a waste of your money and I refuse to do it.
  • Insulation: Is your garage attached to your house? Do you use it as a workshop or gym? If so, you’ll need to consider insulation to meet building regulations and keep it warm. This adds to the material and labour cost.

Can you give me a rough price for a standard single garage?

Alright, I know you want numbers. Based on a standard single garage (around 15 square metres) here in the Brighton area, here’s what you can generally expect. These are 2024 prices and include stripping the old roof, checking the deck, and a professional finish.

  • High-Performance Torch-On Felt: This is my go-to. A modern three-layer system is tough, reliable, and looks neat. You’re typically looking at somewhere between £1,500 – £2,500.
  • EPDM Rubber: A great, long-lasting single-sheet system. It can be a bit more expensive, often ranging from £1,800 – £2,800.
  • GRP Fibreglass: Very durable and seamless, but it’s the most expensive option and can be prone to cracking if the decking isn’t rock solid. Expect to pay £2,200 – £3,500+.

Remember, these are estimates. The only way to get a firm cost is for me to see it. For a detailed breakdown specific to your garage, you should check out my garage flat roof replacement service page.

What are the ‘hidden’ costs I need to watch out for?

This is where some companies get you. The initial quote looks cheap, but the extras soon pile up. I always include everything in my fixed-price quotes. Here’s what you need to ask about:

  • Timber Decking: As I mentioned, if your timber boards are rotten, they need replacing. This will add a few hundred pounds to the job for materials and labour.
  • Fascias and Soffits: Are the boards around the edge of your garage roof made of timber and looking a bit flaky? Now is the perfect time to replace them with low-maintenance uPVC. It’s much cheaper to do it at the same time as the roof. I provide a full uPVC fascia and soffit replacement service.
  • Guttering: Old, cracked guttering on a new roof makes no sense. Replacing the gutters and downpipes while the scaffolding (if needed) is up is efficient and smart. If you need new ones, I can handle the guttering and downpipe installation properly.
  • Skip Hire: Getting rid of the old roofing materials costs money. Make sure it’s included in your quote.

Can I just paint my old felt roof with some waterproof paint to save money?

You can, and people do it all the time. You can go buy a tin of Acropol, roof sealant, or some bitumen paint and slap it on. It might even stop the leak for a few months if you’re lucky.

But here’s the blunt truth: it’s a temporary patch, not a fix. You’re often just trapping moisture underneath, which makes the timber decking rot even faster. When you finally call a professional like me, the repair job is often more expensive because the underlying structure is more damaged. It’s a classic false economy.

A professionally installed new system is a long-term investment. If you want to learn more about the different systems available, I cover them on my main flat roof services page.

How do I get an accurate, fixed price for my garage roof?

Simple. You stop guessing and get an expert to look at it. I provide a completely transparent service. I’ll come out, get on the roof, assess the condition of the deck, measure up properly, and discuss the best material options for your budget and needs.

You’ll then get a detailed, fixed-price quote with no obligation. You’ll know the exact cost before any work begins. And once I start, you get access to my client portal with daily photo updates, so you can see the progress for yourself.

The first step is easy. You can book a free roof inspection directly on my website. I’ll handle the rest.