Roofing comes in a variety of materials. If you are a homeowner building your first home, or simply replacing an old one, choosing which roofing material to use can be a confusing and overwhelming experience. So, what is the most cost effective roofing material? Because there are plenty of options out there, let’s consider a few of them.
If you are looking for inexpensive yet durable roofing systems, here are the roofing types to look into.
1. Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are very popular these days. That’s for good reason. Asphalt is the cheapest of all roofing materials in the market and will last you between 15 to 30 years. This is the best option for homeowners facing budgetary constraints.
It is also widely available and comes in a variety of colors. Maintenance-wise, you may be required to replace worn-out asphalt shingles that loosen up over the passage of time.
2. Wood Shingles & Shakes
If you are aiming for a more natural look and want an aesthetic appeal to complement the rest of your home, wood shingles are the way to go. Wood is more expensive than asphalt and will typically last for about 20 years.
Wooden shingles and shakes are typically high maintenance. Since wood naturally expands and contracts, they are prone to moss and mold growth. They need to be regularly cleaned and pressure-washed to allow the wood to breathe.
3. Metal Roofing
If you live in a very windy area, then you may need to spring for a metal roof. Metal roofing can withstand heavy rains, strong winds, and extreme storms. Although metal is more expensive than its asphalt counterpart, it is more durable and will perform better during inclement weather. Metal roofing will last you for about 30 to 50 years.
Since metal roofing is extremely durable, it requires little to no maintenance. It may even last you a lifetime, which means you’ll never have to go through another roofing project again.
Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor
So, now you may know what is the most cost effective roofing material. Once you have determined the type of roofing material your home needs, the next step is choosing the right roofing company to work with. Hire a company that has your best interest at heart and is not out to make a quick buck.
Chattanooga Roofing Company provides you with the best roofing options according to your budget. As an experienced roofer with a customer-focused mindset, we take note of your requirements, budget, and timeframe and strive to meet them. Call us today at (423) 888-0258 or fill out the contact form for immediate assistance!
FAQs
Asphalt is the cheapest of all roofing materials in the market and will last you between 15 to 30 years.
What is the most cost effective roofing material? ›
What is the Cheapest Roofing Material? Plain and simple, the absolute cheapest roofing material based on cost alone is asphalt shingles. However, some other options are more expensive at the initial cost but will last longer, such as wood shingles, metal shingles, slate shingles, and solar glass shingles.
What is the most cost effective roof to build? ›
Flat Roof
These roofs are found in residential, commercial and industrial areas. Small addition renovation projects include flat roofs due to the cheaper cost.
What is the best roof for your money? ›
Shingle material has the biggest impact on your roof's performance, durability, and cost. Asphalt shingle roofs are the most affordable, while clay tile, natural slate, and solar shingles are the bigger investments.
Which of the below roofing material is most cost effective? ›
Explanation: Metal roof is the most durable one that can even last 100 years. It provides heat and cold resistance and it is easily installed. Asphalt, plastic and rubber are recycled materials but don't last long. In terms of life, metal roofs are most cost effective.
What is the cheapest longest lasting roof? ›
Asphalt Roofs
Asphalt shingles are the most popular due to their low upfront cost. To ensure they last as long as possible, asphalt shingles require a well-ventilated roof, so give some thought to how you will ventilate the roof and what kind of vent caps you want if you need ventilation holes.
What is the longest lasting roof material? ›
The NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) rates slate as by far the longest lasting roofing material, with a life expectancy of 150+ years, followed closely by clay and concrete at roughly 100 years.
What is the cheapest type of roof to install? ›
Asphalt shingles! These are some of the lowest-cost materials on the market for roofing. Asphalt shingles are very common and great for budget-conscious homeowners. Their lifespan is shorter than other roofing materials with warranties of 15-30 years (about half as long as metal roofs).
Which roof is the cheapest? ›
Now you know that an asphalt shingle roof is the most affordable roofing material. However, there's much more to know about asphalt shingle roofing and the types of asphalt shingles. Let's get to the 4 things every homeowner needs to know about asphalt shingle roofing.
What type of roof is most reliable? ›
The most durable types of roofing are slate and clay tiles but they're more expensive than materials like metal or wood. Functional roofing alternatives like green roofs and solar shingles are among the most expensive types.
The cost of installing a new roof costs between $4 and $40 per square foot—or about $7 on average—including both labor and materials. Remember that in roofing terms, this means between $400 to $4,000 per roofing square, or about $700 for the most popular materials.
What is the best roofing material for hot climates? ›
The best choice for hot climates has to be clay tile roofing. It's more expensive than rubber or metal, but it does a lot better for blocking sunlight and resisting wind.
What is the best longest lasting roof? ›
Concrete, clay, and slate tiles have an average lifespan of 100 or more years. They are without a doubt the materials that last the longest but are also, bar none, some of the most expensive. Slate roofs are often called the “forever roof” because they can last seemingly forever.
What are 2 disadvantages to asphalt shingles? ›
What are the Main Disadvantages of Shingle Roofing?
- Asphalt shingle roofing, in particular, absorbs heat from the sun and transfers it into the home. ...
- Asphalt shingle is a heavier material compared to others such as metal.
- The durability of a shingle roof isn't as long compared to other roofing materials.
On the other hand, if you are looking at costing for a flat roof, roofing felt is the most cost-effective product. The initial capital outlay for this product is low. However, if you are looking at the cheapest flat roofing material in terms of longevity and high performance, EPDM membrane is the best choice.
What damages roof the most? ›
The 10 Biggest Enemies Affecting a Roof
- Rain and Hail. Of course, water is the major element that your roof protects your home from. ...
- Wind. Wind damage to a roof is possible in severe storms. ...
- Snow and Ice. ...
- Algae. ...
- Ultraviolet Light. ...
- Trees. ...
- Animals. ...
- Improper installation.
Metal roofs are long-lasting, environmentally friendly, and more durable than your standard asphalt roof. However, they are slippery, can be difficult to install properly, and may be noisy during a thunderstorm or windy weather.
Are shingles cheaper than metal roofing? ›
Is it cheaper to put a metal roof or shingles? Shingle roofs are significantly cheaper upfront, but you'll have to repair your shingle roof more often, and it won't last as long. If you're in it for the long haul, a metal roof could be the better investment.
