Top Roof Replacement & Installation in Honolulu, Hawaii Ranked

Replacing your roof in Honolulu is a significant investment in protecting your home from the island's unique and demanding climate. The intense sun, salt-laden air, heavy tropical rains, and potential for high winds require a strategic approach to material selection and installation quality. A successful roof installation here isn't just about aesthetics; it's about choosing a system engineered for durability, moisture resistance, and long-term performance against relentless environmental stressors. Understanding the local challenges, material options, and associated costs is the first step toward ensuring your new roof provides security and peace of mind for decades.

Kapili Roofing & Painting

94-221 Leonui St, Waipahu, HI 96797

Kapili Roofing & Painting is a licensed and insured roofing contractor serving Honolulu, HI. They specialize in roof installation, replacement, leak repair, metal roofing including standing seam, roof inspections, and certification services. The company holds certifications from leading manufacturers such as GAF and CertainTeed, ensuring expert installation and warranty-backed work. Kapili Roofing & Painting also assists clients with HOA approval processes and coordinates with solar panel removal and reinstallation when needed. Their services include roof coating applications to extend roof lifespan, tailored to Hawaii's unique climate conditions.

4.9

374 Reviews

Oahu Roofing & Repairs Honolulu

1138 Kamaile St #3, Honolulu, HI 96814

Oahu Roofing & Repairs Honolulu offers comprehensive residential and commercial roofing services in Honolulu, HI, and across the island of Oahu. Their expertise includes roof repair, replacement, new installations, leak detection, waterproofing, and roof inspections. They handle various roof types such as shingle, tile, metal, and standing seam, and specialize in commercial, hotel, and condo roofing projects. With over 25 years of experience, the company employs dedicated crews for both residential and commercial work, ensuring tailored service for each project. They provide 24/7 emergency roofing services and assist with insurance claims to support clients during urgent repairs.

5.0

84 Reviews

Unlimited Home Services

honolulu

Unlimited Home Services is a locally owned roofing company based in Honolulu, HI, serving Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. They specialize in roof installation, replacement, leak repair, and roof inspections, working closely with insurance companies to assist clients in obtaining approvals for roof replacements. Their team offers free roof assessments and coordinates with insurance adjusters to ensure proper coverage. Unlimited Home Services also handles interior damage related to roofing issues and solar panel removal. They have experience managing claims related to wind and wildfire damage and provide services for both residential and commercial properties.

5.0

83 Reviews

First Class Roofing LLC

94-1028 Molale St, Waipahu, HI 96797

First Class Roofing LLC is a licensed and insured roofing contractor serving Honolulu, HI, and the entire Oahu area. With over 17 years of experience, they provide a wide range of roofing services including installation, replacement, repair, inspection, and certification for both residential and commercial properties. Their team is skilled in handling Hawaii's unique roofing challenges, offering durable solutions like roof replacement and emergency 24/7 roofing services to address tropical weather damage. The company partners with reputable manufacturers and emphasizes quality workmanship and comprehensive project management.

5.0

78 Reviews

All Around Roofing & Waterproofing

honolulu

All Around Roofing & Waterproofing is a family-owned roofing contractor based in Honolulu, HI, serving residential and commercial clients throughout the area. With over 15 years of experience, they offer a full range of roofing services including installation, replacement, roof leak repair, metal roofing with standing seam, roof inspections, and certifications. The company provides storm damage restoration and emergency repairs, working directly with insurance providers to support clients after weather events. They are available 24/7 to address urgent roofing needs and emphasize fair, transparent pricing alongside quality workmanship.

4.9

107 Reviews

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Honolulu's Climate: The Ultimate Test for Your Roof

The beautiful Hawaiian weather presents a constant challenge for building materials. Your roofing system must be specifically chosen and installed to withstand these four primary forces:

• Salt Air Corrosion: Ocean breezes carry salt that can rapidly accelerate the corrosion of metal components ¹. This necessitates the use of high-grade, corrosion-resistant metals like aluminum or steel with specialized protective coatings.
• Intense UV Radiation: The powerful sun in Honolulu can fade colors and degrade the binding agents in materials like asphalt shingles over time ². UV-resistant products and reflective coatings are crucial for longevity.
• Heavy Rain and Humidity: Sudden downpours and constant humidity demand exceptional waterproofing. This includes high-quality synthetic underlayment, properly sealed flashings, and meticulously designed drainage systems to prevent water intrusion and mold growth ³.
• Hurricane-Force Winds: While not constant, the threat of tropical storms and hurricanes is real. Honolulu building codes often require reinforced fastening systems, such as hurricane straps/clips, to secure the roof structure to the framing, preventing uplift in extreme winds ¹.

Choosing the Right Roofing Material for Your Home

Selecting a material involves balancing budget, aesthetic preference, architectural style, and, most importantly, performance in the local environment. Here are the most common types of roofing in Honolulu:

Metal Roofing: The Durable Favorite

Metal roofs, particularly standing seam panels, are exceptionally popular for Honolulu homes ^{4 5}. They offer superior durability, inherent resistance to fire and insects, and excellent performance in high winds. Modern metal roofs are often coated with reflective, corrosion-resistant finishes that combat both salt and UV damage while improving energy efficiency by reflecting solar heat ². Although the upfront investment is higher, their longevity (often 40-70 years) can make them a cost-effective choice over time.

Asphalt Shingles: The Common & Affordable Choice

Asphalt shingles remain a prevalent and budget-friendly option for sloped roofs in Hawaii ⁵. They provide good value and a wide variety of styles. However, in Honolulu's climate, it's critical to choose premium, algae-resistant shingles rated for high UV and impact resistance. Proper installation with adequate ventilation is key to mitigating heat-related degradation and moisture buildup ³.

Tile Roofing (Clay or Concrete): Heavy-Duty & Classic

Tile roofs offer a distinctive, classic look and are incredibly durable, fire-resistant, and capable of lasting over 50 years ⁴. Their substantial weight provides excellent wind resistance. The primary considerations are cost-both for the materials and the installation-and the need for a roof structure strong enough to support the significant load. They also provide natural thermal mass, helping to regulate indoor temperatures.

Other Material Considerations

• Wood Shakes/Shingles: While offering natural beauty, wood is less common due to higher maintenance needs, susceptibility to moisture damage, and termite risks in the islands ⁵.
• Synthetic & Composite Materials: Newer products designed to mimic slate or wood are gaining traction for their durability, lighter weight, and resistance to rot and insects.

Understanding the Roof Replacement Process & Timeline

A full roof replacement is a coordinated project. After selecting a qualified, licensed, and insured contractor familiar with Honolulu's codes, the process typically involves:

1. Initial Inspection & Estimate: A thorough assessment of the existing roof, decking, and structure.
2. Material Selection & Permitting: Finalizing your choice and securing any required city/county permits.
3. Preparation & Tear-Off: Protecting your property, removing the old roofing material, and inspecting the deck for repairs.
4. Installation: Installing new underlayment, flashings, and the primary roofing material.
5. Cleanup & Final Inspection: A meticulous site cleanup and a walk-through to ensure quality.

For a standard single-family home, the physical installation can often be completed within 1 to 2 weeks ⁶. However, larger homes, complex designs, the choice of intricate materials like tile, or the discovery of significant structural repairs can extend the timeline to several weeks. Delays in material delivery or permit approvals can also impact the schedule.

Investment Overview: Roofing Costs in Honolulu

Roof replacement costs in Honolulu are influenced by home size, roof pitch, material choice, and the necessary enhancements for weatherproofing. The figures below are general estimates for an average-sized home; your specific project may vary.

• Metal Roofing: Often considered a premium investment, costs typically range from $15,000 to $30,000 or more. The higher end reflects premium standing seam profiles, specialized coatings for salt air, and complex installations ^{2 7}.
• Asphalt Shingles: As a more accessible option, asphalt shingle replacement generally falls between $7,000 and $12,000. Costs can increase with premium architectural shingles, synthetic underlayment upgrades, or if a second layer needs to be torn off ^{7 8}.
• Tile Roofing (Clay/Concrete): Given the material expense and intensive labor, tile roofs are a significant investment, often starting around $20,000 and exceeding $35,000. This may not include potential costs for reinforcing the roof structure to bear the extra weight ^{2 7}.

Remember, the single most expensive part of a new roof is usually the labor and expertise required for proper installation ⁹. Investing in quality workmanship is critical, especially in a challenging environment like Honolulu, as it directly impacts the roof's lifespan and performance.

Key Considerations for a Successful Project

Beyond material and cost, keep these points in mind:

• Ventilation: Proper attic ventilation is non-negotiable in a humid climate. It prevents heat and moisture buildup that can damage the roof deck and shingles from underneath.
• Warranties: Scrutinize both the manufacturer's material warranty and the contractor's workmanship warranty. Understand what is covered and for how long.
• Insurance & Licensing: Always verify that your contractor carries general liability and workers' compensation insurance and holds a current license with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA).
• Code Compliance: Ensure your contractor is familiar with and follows all local building codes, including requirements for wind resistance and flashing details.

Frequently asked questions

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