New Jersey’s 2024 Roofing Labor Costs Surge as Union Agreements Drive Installation Prices to Historic Highs
New Jersey homeowners are experiencing a significant shift in roofing costs as 2024 collective bargaining agreements reshape the construction landscape statewide. Union workers are united through collective bargaining agreements which help them earn family-supporting pay, good benefits and the opportunity for advancement and better lives, but these improvements are directly impacting what consumers pay for roof installations and replacements.
The Union Impact on Installation Costs
The prevailing wage rate in New Jersey significantly impacts construction costs, particularly for public works projects. However, the ripple effects extend far beyond public construction. The prevailing wage rates applicable to each craft or trade are determined by the Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development based on collective bargaining agreements, and such rates vary by county and by the type of work performed.
For roofing specifically, in New Jersey the going rate for roofing labor hovers around $60, $90 per hour which translates to about $3, $5, per foot. This represents a substantial increase from previous years, with a high demand for skilled labor and a shortage of qualified roofers, wages in the construction industry have risen. Higher labor rates directly affect replacement costs, particularly for more complex or labor-intensive roof types.
How Collective Bargaining Affects Your Roof Replacement
The 2024 collective bargaining agreements have established new wage standards that influence both union and non-union contractors. “Wage reductions are out of the question,” Coletti said, “but there could be room for possible benefit work rules adjustments. The owners in New York have always said if we can get the cost differential down to 10% to 15%, they would hire union every time.”
For homeowners wondering how much does a new roof cost in nj, the answer has become more complex in 2024. For an average-sized roof (about 1,500 square feet), homeowners in South Jersey can expect to pay between $5,000 to $9,000 for a basic roof replacement using standard asphalt shingles, while premium installations can reach significantly higher prices.
Regional Variations Across New Jersey
In New Jersey, these prevailing wage rates vary by county and by the type of work performed. Bergen County, one of the state’s most active construction markets, has seen particularly notable impacts. Local contractors like A. Russo Roofing & Siding, which has been serving the region for over 40 years, understand these regional challenges intimately.
Our team understands the unique challenges of Bergen County homes. Many were built in the 1960s and 1970s, and their roofs weren’t designed for today’s more severe weather patterns, explains the company, which has adapted its services to meet both the technical demands of modern roofing and the economic realities of union-influenced pricing.
The Consumer Perspective: What This Means for Homeowners
While union agreements ensure skilled craftsmanship and fair wages for workers, they also mean higher costs for consumers. Most Bergen Mills homes fall between $15,000-$30,000 for complete installation with quality materials, reflecting the current market conditions influenced by collective bargaining outcomes.
However, these higher costs often translate to better value for homeowners. Private and public owners continue to recognize that union contractors bring a wealth of knowledge, experience and skilled craftworkers to each job. This expertise becomes particularly valuable given New Jersey’s challenging climate conditions.
Economic Factors Beyond Union Agreements
The union impact isn’t the only factor driving costs higher in 2024. The rising cost of everything has also impacted raw roofing materials and labor. Shingles, fasteners, underlayment, and other supplies have seen price increases, leading to higher overall replacement costs.
In 2024, roofing costs have also been influenced by economic factors, such as inflation, thereby affecting the price of materials, labor, and transportation. This creates a compound effect where union wage increases combine with broader economic pressures to drive up total project costs.
Finding Value in the Current Market
Despite higher costs, homeowners can still find value by working with experienced local contractors who understand both the regulatory environment and regional challenges. Companies like A. Russo Roofing demonstrate how established contractors adapt to market changes while maintaining quality standards.
A Russo Roofing & Siding has been protecting Bergen County homes since the 1980s. We’ve been serving Bergen County for over 40 years and plan to be here for the next 40. This longevity provides homeowners with confidence that their investment will be supported long-term, even as market conditions continue to evolve.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect
As 2024 progresses, the impact of collective bargaining on roofing costs is likely to stabilize, but at these higher levels. In New Jersey we represent more than 25,000 members, mostly in construction, indicating the significant influence unions have on the state’s construction market.
For homeowners planning roof replacements, the key is understanding that while costs have increased, the investment in quality installation using union-trained workers often provides better long-term value. The combination of skilled labor, proper materials, and comprehensive warranties can justify the higher upfront costs through improved durability and performance.
As New Jersey’s construction industry continues to adapt to new collective bargaining agreements, consumers should expect these elevated pricing levels to become the new normal, making it more important than ever to choose contractors who deliver genuine value for these increased investments.