What Type of Roof is Cheapest? (2024)

• Residential Roofing

• October 14, 2022

When you’re researching roofing materials for your next project, budgeting is a very important piece of the puzzle. You may wonder things like what type of roof is cheapest, what will last the longest, or what will increase your property value.

Here’s your guide to which type of roof is the cheapest to build and beyond. It’s also important to know the difference between cheap and cost-effective and ultimately use those tools to make your best decision.

What Type of Roof is Cheapest? The Simple Answer Is…

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).

However, that doesn’t mean they can’t be high quality. There are plenty of top-shelf asphalt shingle options, and with quality craftsmanship, you can have a beautiful asphalt shingle roof that will live a long life.

A budget may play a big role in your roofing material decision, but it’s important to get the right approach. It’s one thing to look for the absolute cheapest option and another thing to look for an option that will pay off in the long run.

Cheap vs. Cost-Effective

When you’re looking at the cost of a roofing project, it’s important to distinguish a cheap option from a cost-effective option.

A cheap option will simply be the option that costs the least amount of money. A cost-effective option may cost more than other options, however, it’s one that will pay off in a number of ways. That might translate into less repairs or replacements down the road, lower energy bills, and more.

A roof that was quickly thrown together by Chuck in a Truck with the absolute cheapest materials is not in your best interest. Cheaper does not mean better! However, it’s very important not to run yourself broke paying for this necessity. So what do you do?

The best plan is to go into your roofing project with an open mind. Weigh all your options and consider what will be beneficial to you in the long run. That might mean paying more for better materials and craftsmanship upfront to reap the benefits of a strong roof for many years.

Asphalt shingles and metal roofing are two very common cost-effective materials. Between the two, asphalt shingles are the cheaper material.

So, with asphalt shingles being a cheaper material, does that make it a bad option? Not at all! The vast majority of homeowners in the country opt for asphalt shingles because they are tried and true. They are lightweight, making for easier repairs and installation. Many trusted local roofing businesses specialize in asphalt shingles and provide high-quality ones.

However, metal roofing is an option many opt for because of its sheer strength. It resists wind and fire damage, is energy-efficient, has a long lifespan, and is more eco-friendly. On top of this, you won’t have to worry about a potential replacement for many decades with metal roofs because their warranties are so lengthy. They can endure 30 to 50 years on average. A metal roof may possibly have a lifespan of up to 70 years.

These are two great options. However, making a decision will depend on your budget, the weather conditions local to you, and the lifespan of the roof you’re going for. Here’s a list of pros so you can decipher which of these popular roofing types is the most cost-effective option.

Shingle vs. Metal Roofing: Cost-Effectiveness Comparison

Metal Roofing

• It may be more expensive to repair this type of roofing, however, you might not have to do it as often.
• Metal resists fire and powerful winds. This means less damage costs.
• Metal roofs have long warranties and last decades. The lifespan could be 30-50 years, possibly even 70. This could completely eliminate the worry of needing a roofing replacement for the rest of your life!
• In terms of customization, it is catching up withshingles. With innovative designs that come in many colors and simulate other materials like slate, metal roofs don’t have to seem like a barn.
• On a metal roof, snow melts far more quickly and ice dams are much less prone to form.
• Although metal initially costs more, it will ultimately cost about the same as shingles since it lasts so much longer. If you are eligible for tax incentives related to having a metal roof, it can even be less expensive. They may also enable you to reduce your energy costs because they are more effective at controlling temperature.

Shingle Roofing

• Shingle roofing needs to be replaced and repaired more often. However, it’s easy to find professionals who can do this well.
• When choosing between shingles and a metal roof, asphalt shingles are less expensive. They start off lot cheaper.
• Shingles are simple to install and repair. Since many businesses focus on them, getting a skilled and high-quality installation for your home is simpler and less expensive.
• There are many different styles of shingles. This roofing design is very customizable if you place a lot of importance on having a beautiful home in addition to one that serves its purpose.

Which Type of Roof is the Cheapest to Build?

The absolute cheapest type of roof to build might not be the one you want. A dangerously cheap contractor will leave things worse than he found them, and shockingly cheap roofing material will fly off with a light breeze. Cost-effective is generally a better goal to shoot for than “cheap” when it comes to getting a good roofing project done.

Overall, asphalt shingles are a great low-cost option for roofing. It’s important to work with a trusted local business when getting them so you know you’re getting the best materials and craftsmanship. Another great option for cost-effective roofing is metal. Although it costs more upfront than shingles, it’s going to last a long time if done correctly, saving you the headache of multiple re-roofings.

If you’re in the New Hampshire area and want metal or shingle roofing done right, look to Energy Shield of New Hampshire. We’ve been serving the area for over 40 years, creating beautiful roofs that stand the test of time. Need an expert opinion? Contact us today for a free, no-obligation inspection!