We analyze the effects of long-ranged elastic step-step interaction upon thermal roughening of a crystal surface within the framework of a solid-on-solid (SOS) model by means of Monte Carlo simulation. The repulsive step-step interaction is modeled by elastic dipole-forces located on sites adjacent to the steps. The interaction energy based on long-ranged potentials is calculated by a multi-grid scheme. In comparison with results for short-range interactions the equilibrium roughening temperature increases drastically as a consequence of anti-correlations between surface defects. Kinetics of crystal growth have been analyzed below and above the roughening temperature. (c) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.