New Construction Roofing

The ideal time to engage a roofing contractor is during the design phase, well before construction begins. Here's the optimal timeline:

Design Phase (3-6 months before construction):

• We review architectural plans to ensure proper roof design for drainage and ventilation
• Recommend materials that complement your home's style and budget
• Identify potential issues before they become expensive changes
• Provide accurate cost estimates for budgeting

Pre-Construction (1-2 months before start):

• Coordinate scheduling with your general contractor
• Order materials to ensure availability when needed
• Finalize color selections and any custom details

During Construction:

• We install the roof at the optimal point in your build schedule (typically after framing inspection, before interior work begins)
• Coordinate with other trades to avoid delays
• Meet all building code requirements and schedule required inspections

Early involvement allows us to catch design issues, order materials on time, and integrate seamlessly with your construction schedule. Last-minute roofing decisions often lead to delays and compromise on material choices.

New construction roofing costs in Lincoln typically range from $4 to $12 per square foot installed, depending on materials and complexity. For an average 2,000 sq ft home:

• Budget tier (3-tab asphalt shingles): $8,000-$10,000
• Mid-range (architectural shingles): $10,000-$14,000
• Premium (designer shingles or metal): $14,000-$20,000+
• Luxury (slate-look, cedar shake, standing seam metal): $20,000-$35,000+

Factors Affecting Cost:

• Roof pitch: Steeper roofs (8/12 pitch or higher) increase labor costs by 20-30%
• Complexity: Multiple valleys, dormers, turrets, or skylights add cost
• Ventilation system: Ridge vents, soffit vents, and proper attic ventilation ($500-$1,500)
• Underlayment upgrades: Synthetic underlayment or ice/water shield in valleys ($300-$800)
• Accessories: Gutter systems, snow guards, or decorative elements

New construction is typically 15-25% less expensive than replacement because there's no tear-off, disposal, or potential deck repairs. We provide detailed line-item estimates so you understand exactly what you're paying for and can make informed choices about where to invest or save.

Nebraska's climate presents unique challenges—hot summers, cold winters, and severe storms with hail and high winds. Here's how different materials perform:

Best for Nebraska's Climate:

• Metal Roofing (40-70 years): Excellent hail resistance, superior wind ratings, energy-efficient in summer heat. Initial cost is higher but longest-lasting option.
• Impact-Resistant Architectural Shingles (30-50 years): UL 2218 Class 4 rated shingles withstand hail better and often qualify for insurance discounts. Best balance of cost and performance.
• Designer Shingles (40-50+ years): Thick, heavy shingles resist wind and impact damage. Premium appearance with excellent durability.

Good Options:

• Standard Architectural Shingles (25-30 years): Most popular choice. Good performance in Nebraska weather at reasonable cost.

Budget Option:

• 3-Tab Shingles (20-25 years): Least expensive but shorter lifespan and lower wind/hail resistance. May need replacement sooner after severe storms.

Our Recommendation: For new construction in Nebraska, we strongly recommend Class 4 impact-resistant architectural shingles. The modest upfront premium (10-15% more than standard) pays for itself through lower insurance premiums, better storm performance, and longer life. Many insurance companies offer 20-30% premium discounts for Class 4 roofs, recovering the extra cost in 3-5 years.

We work with both! Our flexible approach accommodates different construction scenarios:

For General Contractors and Builders:

• Competitive subcontractor pricing for volume work
• Reliable scheduling to keep your project on track
• Coordinate with your timeline and other trades
• Handle all required permits and inspections
• Direct billing with standard construction payment terms
• Multiple ongoing projects with staggered schedules

For Owner-Builders and Direct Homeowners:

• Guide you through the entire roofing process
• Help you understand options and make informed decisions
• Handle permits, inspections, and code compliance
• Coordinate with your framing crew or other contractors
• Transparent pricing with detailed explanations
• More hands-on consultation about materials and design

Why Builders Choose Us:

• We show up when scheduled—no delays or excuses
• Quality work that passes inspection the first time
• Professional crews who respect the job site
• Competitive pricing without sacrificing quality
• 20+ years building relationships with Lincoln contractors

Whether you're a production builder needing reliable roofing for multiple homes or a homeowner acting as your own general contractor, we adapt our service level to your needs. We've worked with everyone from large development companies to first-time owner-builders.

Energy-efficient roofing can significantly reduce your heating and cooling costs. Here are the best options for new construction in Nebraska:

Cool Roof Shingles (Solar Reflective):

• Specially designed granules reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat
• Can reduce roof surface temperature by 50-60°F on hot summer days
• Lower attic temperatures = less air conditioning needed
• Particularly effective in lighter colors, but now available in darker shades too
• Adds minimal cost ($100-$300 for average home)

Metal Roofing:

• Highly reflective surface reduces heat absorption
• Some metal roofs reduce cooling costs by 10-25%
• Can be installed with above-sheathing ventilation for even better performance
• Available with special coatings that maximize solar reflection

Proper Ventilation System:

• Ridge vents: Continuous exhaust ventilation along roof peak
• Soffit vents: Intake ventilation at roof eaves
• Proper balance: Ensures hot air escapes and cool air enters
• Impact: Can reduce attic temperatures by 30-40°F
• Costs $500-$1,200 but provides immediate benefits year-round

Additional Energy Efficiency Upgrades:

• Radiant barrier: Reflective material under roof deck ($200-$500)
• Spray foam insulation: Between rafters for superior R-value
• Light-colored roofing: Reflects more heat than dark colors (especially with cool roof technology)

For new construction, this is the perfect time to maximize energy efficiency since you're not constrained by existing systems. We'll help you select the right combination of materials and features based on your budget and priorities. Many homeowners recover the investment in energy-efficient roofing within 7-10 years through reduced utility bills.