November 30, 2025

Is That "$6,497 Roof Replacement" Ad Too Good to Be True? 7 Things Hawaii Homeowners Need to Know

You've seen the ads on Facebook. Beautiful new roof, unbelievably low price, "limited time only." Before you fill out that form, read this.

1. Those Low-Price Ads Are Lead Generation Traps

A legitimate roof replacement in Hawaii costs $15,000 to $30,000 for most homes. That $6,497 price? It's for the smallest possible scenario. Maybe a shed or carport. Not your house. These ads exist to capture your contact info. Once a salesperson visits, your roof suddenly becomes "more complex" and the real quote is 3-4x higher.

2. Here's How Contractors Actually Calculate Your Price

Roofers charge by the "square" (100 sq ft of roof area). In Hawaii, expect $650–$750+ per square minimum, plus $150–$200 per plywood sheet if there's hidden rot underneath. That means small homes (1,500-2,000 sq ft) typically run $12K–$18K, medium homes (2,000-2,500 sq ft) cost $16K–$22K, larger homes (2,500-3,000 sq ft) come in at $20K–$27K, and large homes (3,000+ sq ft) start at $24K and go up from there.

3. The Cheapest Quote Often Costs You More

That contractor undercutting everyone by $5K has to make it up somewhere. Usually through inferior materials, rushed installation, or inexperienced crews. These shortcuts show up years later as leaks and premature failure. A $25K roof lasting 25 years works out to $2.74 per day. That's a worthwhile investment to protect everything you own.

4. Fancy Trucks Don't Equal Quality Work

Wrapped vehicles and polished presentations look reassuring, but they tell you nothing about actual craftsmanship. What really matters is the crew on your roof. Experienced, skilled installers who take pride in their work will outperform a flashy company with undertrained workers every time. Some of the best roofers in Hawaii have minimal marketing presence. They stay busy through referrals and reputation because their crews consistently deliver quality results.

5. Know the Warning Signs of a Scam

Be cautious of contractors who offer prices far below competitors, pressure you to sign immediately, request large payments upfront, can't provide license or insurance documentation, have no physical business address, or appeared right after a storm from out of state.

6. Protect Yourself Before Signing Anything

Verify licenses through Hawaii's Contractors License Board. Confirm insurance directly with the carrier. Check reviews across Google, Yelp, and BBB for patterns. Call references. Get everything in writing. Pay by check or credit card, never cash.

7. The Bottom Line

Most Oahu homeowners pay $15K–$30K for a roof replacement. Price depends on size, complexity, pitch, materials, and hidden damage. Marketing polish doesn't indicate quality, and rock-bottom prices usually signal problems ahead.

Need Help Finding the Right Contractor?

Oahu Roof Support connects homeowners with vetted local roofers matched to your specific project, whether it's insurance work or out-of-pocket. Skip the guesswork and get a real quote.

Contact Oahu Roof Support to get started.