Best Roofing Materials Ranked By Cost And Durability
When choosing a new or replacing the roof of your home, one of the most important factors is to consider the cost, durability, longevity, sustainability, and efficiency of the materials that you choose. All of these elements go in together.
For instance, the durability of your roof is crucial how well it holds to harsh weather conditions of say, McKinney, and Frisco in Texas is ultimately going to affect how long it will last.
The other thing is the energy efficiency of the roofing material which adds running costs for instance, if you go with a cheaper roofing material that isnt energy-efficient, itll add to your electric bills in the summer.
While the material of the roof is extremely important, the correct installation will literally decide how long your roof will last.
Although DIY is fun and can save you costs, do not attempt to install roofing materials on your own unless you are a trained professional.
With that said, it is also in your best interest to consult with a residential roofing contractor before you purchase the material for your roof.
There are many factors to consider, such as the style of your home, the slop of your roof, and what roofing material is best for your citys climate.
Here are four roofing materials ranked by cost and durability. Each has its unique advantages, so read carefully and then decide which on to go after.
What Is Cheaper Tin Or Shingles
Shingle roofs are cheaper than metal roofs.
The tin panels already cost more than shingles, and youll pay extra because metal roofs require more installation skills.
Tin roofing ranks somewhere in the middle of the various metals in price, as its more expensive than steel but cheaper than zinc or copper.
Not every roofer has experience installing a tin roof. While metal roofs are resilient, they have to be installed correctly.
The Cost To Roof A House With A Screw
A screw-down metal roof is also referred to as an exposed fastener roof, an agricultural panel, a 5-V crimp roof, a maxi-rib, or a multi-rib panel. The screw-down roof is designed to give you the look and feel of a metal roof. But exposed fastener roofing requires less labor to install than a standing seam metal roof system.
However, the exposed screws will require some maintenance somewhere between 5 and 10 years.
View screw-down metal roof colors and options here.
For a screw-down metal on a house with 2 straight sides. Without chimneys, skylights, or valleys the average cost is $16,500.
A screw-down metal roof on a home with 2 stories. A little more complex, with a chimney, dormers, and a couple of valleys, the average cost is $22,750.
A screw-down metal roof on a house with 2 or 3 stories. More complex, with a chimney, walls, and several valleys, the average cost is $31,700.
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What Roofing Material Is For A Flat Roof
By: Author Olin Wade
A flat roof is a roof which is almost level in comparison to the house or building. They are not entirely level, as they have a small incline to allow for water drainage. Many commercial and industrial buildings have flat roofs because they are less expensive to install than pitched roofs.
Including asphalt, gravel, EPDM rubber, and PVC. Asphalt is the most common type of roofing material used on flat roofs, as it is relatively inexpensive and easy to install. However, asphalt roofs require regular maintenance and can be susceptible to leaking.
Gravel roofs are another option for flat roofs. Gravel is a low-cost roofing material that is easy to install. However, gravel can be difficult to remove if it gets caught in a storm or if it needs to be replaced.
EPDM rubber is a more expensive roofing material, but it is also more durable and resistant to leaking. PVC is another durable and leak-resistant roofing material, but it is more expensive than EPDM rubber.
Contents
The Cheapest Roofing Material For Your Roof Replacement
If youre on a tight budget, asphalt shingles are going to be the most cost-effective roofing material for your upcoming roof replacement.
While asphalt is the cheapest roofing material, there are 3 different types of asphalt shingles that vary in price and affect how much youll spend on your roof replacement.
3-tab shingles are the cheapest of the 3 types of asphalt shingles and are a great option for a tight budget. But theyre slowly starting to be phased out of the roofing industry.
Dimensional asphalt shingles are the most common type you see on roofs today. They cost about 15% more than 3-tab shingles, but give you more life and better warranty options.
Luxury asphalt shingles are the most expensive option of the 3 types. Theyre going to be almost double the cost of dimensional shingles, but theyre one of the most aesthetically pleasing roofs youll see.
But if you’re looking for the most cost-effective roofing material, youre probably going to go with a 3-tab or dimensional shingle for your asphalt roof replacement.
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Things To Consider When Choosing An Affordable Roof
Although its tempting just to consider the upfront cost of choosing a shingle material, you should also think about the long-term costs and how frequently a material may need to be replaced. Youll also want to check the shingles hail ratings as an indicator of how well they do in inclement weather and how durable they are over time, especially if you live in an extreme climate. The energy efficiency of your shingles should also be considered, as this can play a significant role in how comfortable your home is and how high your energy bills are.
Least Expensive Roofing Materials In Gilbert Arizona
The roof will take up a considerable chunk of your houses budget but is a vital necessity. Its what keeps our home dry and protected from the elements, so you cant scrimp on the materials. Those on a tight budget can sigh in relief, as there are relatively cheap roofing materials to choose from.
This may leave you wondering, what are the least expensive roofing materials in Gilbert, Arizona? Read on to find out!
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How Much Does Metal Roofing Cost
In general, the upfront cost of a metal roof is much higher than the cost of a roof containing asphalt shingles. However, given a metal roofs durability, the overall cost of installing and maintaining it is much lower than needing a total roof replacement every 15 to 20 years.
Here are some of the most common metal roofing materials and how much they cost to purchase and install. The overall prices are calculated for the average American roof size of 1,700 square feet.
Asphalt Shingles The Most Widely Used Roof Material In The Us Are Reliable And Efficient And May Be Right For You
Matt ClawsonThe MaterialCostOptionsLife Expectancy
Cons
- Asphalt roofs do not handle extreme temperature variations as well as some material types, such as metal-seam roofs.
- Asphalt roofing is not considered a green material. It is a petroleum-based product, and it usually doesnt provide much insulation value.
- It is difficult to disguise the fact that asphalt roofs are the composition, manufactured product they are rather than a true natural material such as slate, wood or clay.
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What You Should Know About Asphalt Roof Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most cost-effective roofing material that has easier installation and low upfront installation costs. Shingles can be installed as a DIY home improvement project, saving you even more money upfront. However, asphalt shingles require regular repairs and should be monitored for damage more regularly than more expensive materials.
House Method Roofing Methodology
Arranging for a home repair of this scale is going to be a fairly involved project. If you havent conducted renovations like this either via a contractor or on your own then it can be a bit overwhelming. At House Method, we pride ourselves on being able to take all of the guesswork out of the equation for you.
Weve thoroughly evaluated each roofing type to make your selection process easier. Through exhaustive research into hundreds of different roofing providers throughout the United States and analyses of thousands of individual homeowner experiences, weve broken our roof rating system down into the following categories.
All roofs receive an aggregate rating between and . This rating is comprised of six key evaluation criteria, which weve outlined below. The rating between and will correspond to a secondary rating out of five stars, which is displayed more visibly in our articles across this category.
More Roofing Resources
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Tile Clay Concrete And Sandcast: 50+ Years
Tile roofs are the second most popular roofing systems in Arizona. They can be made of clay, concrete, and sandcast. Concrete tiles are generally more affordable than clay, but tend to not last quite as long due to the underlayment being of lesser quality than what typically comes with clay or sandcast tiles.
- Advantages of Tile Roofs: Tile roofs can last up to 50+ years in Arizona. Some Arizona tile roofs have even been even known to last up to 80 years! While tile roofs longevity may last the entire duration of a homeowners lifetime, the underlayment will need to be replaced every 25-35 years. Undamaged tiles can be re-installed and re-used.
- Tile roofs are also fireproof, resist rot, and the majority of Arizona insects. The concrete tiles themselves are actually cooler than other roofing options, like asphalt shingles, which helps to reduce ambient temperature in the attic and can help save on overall electricity costs.
The Cost Of A New Roof With The Top 7 Roofing Materials
Dont you just hate it when you go to a website and you land on an article, read it, only to find out at the end of the article that you need to contact someone to get the answer you were searching for? It usually goes something like this: to find out more information on our costs and prices, click this button to contact us!
Listen, we get how frustrating this can be, so we promise to not only have the difficult conversations about price but also to be transparent and provide you with as much information as we can upfront.
The cost of having your roof replaced is a lot like purchasing a car. There are many variables and options that will determine the final amount needed to cover your particular style or taste, right?
Many of the same model vehicles come with options for more horsepower, special paint, or tire and wheel packages. Do you love upgraded interior packages with a sunroof or a panoramic view? Lets not forget about the amazing electronic packages available.
So, do you prefer the basic model or the one with all the bells and whistles? Or maybe somewhere in between? Well, just like buying that perfect vehicle, the one that’s just right for you, there are a lot of bells & whistles’ to choosing a roof that is just right for you.
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Do I Need A New Roof 1asphalt Roofing Shingles Cost Less About $1 A Square Foot
Topping the cheapest roofing materials is asphalt shingles, costing about $1 to $2 a square foot plus labor.
Asphalt roofing shingles are considered the most popular and cost-effective roofing material among homeowners working on a budget. They are relatively lightweight and easy to install, lasting between 15 to 20 years. Some higher-weight architecture shingles can last 25 to 30 years.
Asphalt shingles come in layered rows on a roof, creating an illusion of the more expensive single shingles like cedar and slate.
There are three types of asphalt shingles available in the market today strip shingles, dimensional shingles, and luxury shingles.
It is important to understand their differences before picking the right one for your project. The downside of using shingle roofs is that they are more susceptible to heat damage, algae, and mold caused by excess moisture gathered underneath if you live in a colder region.
The Cost Replace A Roof With A Standing Seam Metal
Unlike the screw-down roof system, there is little to no roof maintenance needed for a standing seam roof system. A standing seam metal roof is one of the best roofs. It may be the top roof option available for any home or business.
And yes, as you can see from the figures below, this roof installation comes with a much higher upfront investment. Because standing seam metal roofing is the highest quality for metal roof systems.
One of the reasons is that superior installation methods require skilled metal roofers. The installation goes much slower than with a screw-down metal roof system. Standing seam metal installed correctly will provide your property with the highest wind protection around.
View theStanding Seam metal roof colors.
For a standing seam metal roof on a house with 2 straight sides. Without chimneys, skylights, or valleys the average cost is $27,500.
A standing seam metal on a house with a roof that is a little more complex. Has a couple of hips and valleys, the average cost is $34,900.
A standing seam metal roof on a house with 2 or 3 stories. More complex, with a chimney, walls, a skylight, and several valleys, the average cost is $42,300.
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When Installing A Roof Which Is The Cheapest
Asphalt is the most affordable roofing material, but three distinct types of asphalt shingles vary in price and influence how much you will spend on your roof replacement.
3-tab shingles are the cheapest of the three types of asphalt shingles and are a great choice for a tight budget.
- However, they are not as durable as the other two types of asphalt shingles and have a shorter lifespan.
The most popular asphalt shingle is the 3-tab variety, which is also the most widespread.
- They are 15% more expensive than three-tab shingles, but they last longer and come with more warranty options.
The most costly option of the three types is luxury asphalt shingles.
- Theyll be rough twice the cost of boxy shingles, but theyre one of the most visually attractive roofs you can imagine.
- However, if you want to save money on your asphalt roof replacement, you should consider a 3-tab or dimensional shingle.
Cheap Roofing Material #: Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles come in three main types:
- Three-tab shingles
- Dimensional shingles
- Designer or Luxury shingles
Three-tab shingles have three tabs on each strip. These are the cheapest shingle option for your roof. While not as long-lasting as the best shingles available, you can expect them to last up to 25 years or more.
Dimensional, or architectural shingles are the mid-range selection in this type, usually having a pattern or design that is visually more attractive. These shingles may have special features such as energy efficiency, impact resistance, and more. They usually last up to 30 years or longer.
Designer shingles are the cream of the crop, sometimes reaching more than ten times the cost of three-tab shingles. They offer some of the prettiest patterns available while having top-tier durability. Its common to see them last for around half a century.
Here are their average costs per square foot:
- Three-tab shingles: $1.40 per square foot
- Dimensional shingles: $5.50 per square foot
- Designer shingles: $12 per square foot
The total average costs can be calculated assuming a roof measures 1,500 square feet.
- Three-tab shingles: $2,100
- Designer shingles: $18,000
Youll be paying for materials plus labor costs.
In the case of asphalt shingles, the type you buy influences the final price significantly. Sticking with three-tab shingles tends to reduce the money spent, as designer shingles are expensive and may be more difficult to install.
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Additional Factors To Think About When Selecting Asphalt Shingles
The most affordable roofing material for a replacement is asphalt shingles. You also learned which asphalt shingle is best for someone on a limited budget. While cost is the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to choosing which asphalt shingle is right for your roof replacement, there are a few more factors to consider, including:
Which Roofing Material Option Is Best For You
When youre considering different roofing materials for your new roof, start by considering the price and the materials suitability to your climate.
Your roof is a huge investment in your home. While you want to choose a roof that fits your budget and needs, aim for quality and durability. That raises the value of your home overall.
Need to make an insurance claim? Get answers and options fast. Well take a look.
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Clay And Concrete Tiles Have Lower Lifetime Costs
Clay tiles are machine-baked molded clay. Top-quality clay tiles are one of the more durable roofing materials. They are affordable in the long run as their installation and maintenance costs are lower than other roofing materials.
Clay roofing materials cost averages from $12.50 to $24 per square foot. The price is mostly for simple clay roofing options, but more exotic tiles have a higher price.
Concrete tiles, on the other hand, are made by mixing sand, cement, and water.
One of the differences between clay and concrete is their water absorption rate. Concrete tiles at 13% and clay tiles at 6% qualifying clay tiles as the best and most popular in the market despite being the more expensive of the two.
Clay and concrete tiles, in comparison, keep your home cool as they have heat-reduction properties, and on average, concrete roof tiles hold up better in extreme weather conditions, unlike clay that can crack and shatter.
