The cheapest roofing option is basic asphalt shingles, which cost between $4.25 and $4.95 per square foot. According to RubyHome, asphalt shingles are the most affordable choice for homeowners on a budget. They are also the most popular roofing material in the U.S., used on about 80% of homes. Asphalt shingles last 20 to 30 years depending on the type you choose. Many homeowners pick this option because it saves money upfront and still protects their home well.
What Makes Asphalt Shingles So Cheap?
Asphalt shingles cost less because they are simple to make and install. The materials are easy to find, which keeps prices low. Labor costs are also lower since roofers can install them quickly.
According to RubyHome, for a 1,700 square foot roof, basic asphalt shingles run $6,800 to $68,000 total, depending on your location and installer. The low end of that range uses basic three-tab shingles, which are the most budget-friendly option available.
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Other Budget-friendly Roofing Options
If you want to save money but have other choices, consider these materials.
| Material Type | Cost Per Sq. Ft. | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Asphalt Shingles | $4.25-$4.95 | 20 years |
| Corrugated Metal | $5.50-$11.50 | 40-80 years |
| Flat Roofing | $5.50-$7.50 | 20-30 years |
| Architectural Asphalt | $4.50-$8.25 | 30 years |
Flat roofing and corrugated metal are also cheap options. Flat roofing costs $5.50 to $7.50 per square foot and works well for homes with flat roof designs. Corrugated metal costs $5.50 to $11.50 per square foot and lasts much longer than asphalt, up to 80 years.
Can You Save Money Another Way?
According to RubyHome, DIY installation can save about 50% on costs. However, mistakes during DIY work can lead to higher costs later, like leaks and water damage. Professional installation costs $4 to $40 per square foot depending on your area.
The average roof replacement cost is $9,526 according to RubyHome. Storm damage causes about 33% of roof replacements, and leaks cause another 33%. If your home needs a roof soon, basic asphalt shingles give you the best value for the money right now.
Why Choose Budget Roofing?
Budget roofing makes sense if you plan to sell your home soon or have a tight budget. According to the National Association of Home Builders, 92% of homeowners consider the roof a top 3 home improvement priority. A new roof protects your home from water damage and keeps your family safe.
Basic asphalt shingles are reliable and common. Most roofers know how to install them, so finding someone to do the work is easy. They may not last as long as premium options, but they work well for most homes and save you thousands of dollars.
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Work with a professional professional roofer to protect your property with quality roofing solutions.