15 Cheapest Roofing Material (Popular & Durable)

Need a roof that won’t break the bank? Here’s 15 Cheapest Roofing Material!

Metal, rubber slate, and terracotta – you won’t miss out on quality or style with these budget-friendly choices. Get your home protected without emptying your wallet.

Asphalt shingles

Asphalt shingles are a top pick for roofing. They’re inexpensive, easy to find, and consist of overlapping parts made from an organic or fiberglass base with asphalt and ceramic granules. The granules protect the material from UV rays, otherwise the shingles can melt in the sun. Depending on the quality and type, shingles can last 15-30 years.

Asphalt shingles are one of the most cost-effective roofing options and their affordability makes them a great choice for budget-conscious homeowners looking for a dependable and good-looking roof covering.

Rolled roofing

Rolled roofing is a cost-effective and sturdy choice. It’s made of asphalt and mineral stabilizers. It suits flat and low-sloped roofs in both residential and commercial buildings. Proper set-up is essential to stop water from entering the building.

Rolled roofing has an asphalt top layer. It is accessible in 19-gauge and 22-gauge thickness. The rolls are typically 2 or 3 feet wide. The material is placed on the rooftop between 2×3” wooden slats in a horizontal direction for support. It is available in different colors, like black or grey. It is simple to install and great for large roofs. DIYers and professional contractors can both use it.

Corrugated metal roofing (Durable)

Corrugated metal roofing is a cheap roofing choice. Aluminum or galvanized steel is used to make it. It comes in a variety of colors. People like it due to the low cost and its long lifespan – up to 30 years.

This material is great for areas with extreme weather. It offers superior protection from hail, high winds, and fire damage. Also, its strength and rigidity makes it ideal. It can be installed on top of shingles or as a full replacement.

For those looking to save money and get a durable material, corrugated metal roofing is an excellent option.

Metal shingles (Popular)

Metal shingles are a cost-effective, increasingly popular roof choice. Aluminum and steel varieties provide weather, impact and fire protection superior to other materials. They come in many shapes and colors, matching any style.

They are lightweight, easy to install and energy efficient. The layers of coating protect against corrosion and rust, so these roofs often last over 20 years without maintenance.

PVC roofing

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) roofing is super durable and cost-effective. Compared to other roofing materials, it usually offers the lowest long-term cost and an excellent return on investment. It can last for more than 30 years, making it a perfect choice for those who need a long-lasting and budget-friendly roofing solution. Plus, it requires minimal maintenance. This saves homeowners money and time.

PVC roofs are available in many colors and designs. They add beauty, prevent fading, and are energy-efficient. All this makes PVC roofs an ideal choice for both residential and commercial buildings.

TPO roofing

TPO roofing is becoming more popular due to its low cost and wide range of options. TPO stands for thermoplastic olefin which is a combination rubber-like material for flexibility and UV resistance. It’s also tear resistant and durable against extreme temperatures.

TPO roofing can be combined with other materials, like asphalt shingles and EPDM rubber membrane. The membrane creates a waterproof seal between layers, allowing for heavy rain, snow and extreme heat.

EPDM roofing

Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EDPM) is a type of single-ply rubberized synthetic roofing membrane. It’s one of the most cost-effective and toughest materials out there. EDPM can resist ozone, UV radiation, high temperatures and is fire-resistant too. It provides an excellent defence against water damage, making it perfect for a variety of structures.

Plus, its flexibility allows it to fit any shape or application, including commercial building projects, homes, barns, sheds and RV roofs.

Fiberglass roofing

Fiberglass roofing is a cost-effective option for many roof projects. It’s lightweight, durable and easy to install. It consists of a woven fiberglass fabric laminated with a water-resistant urethane. This combination gives it strength and flexibility, plus resistance to harsh weather.

Fiberglass can be an overlay on existing material, or the base layer in a new build or reroof project. Its non-combustible nature meets fire safety standards. Plus, it doesn’t absorb much water and is resistant to corrosion and rotting. These features make it ideal for flat roofs or areas with water runoff.

Installation is easy, as fiberglass panels can be cut using standard hand tools. Preformed membrane products require minimal fasteners. Lightweight pieces provide wind resistance and easier installation, reducing labour costs.

Composite roofing (Cheapest)

Composite roofing is #1 on the list of the 15 cheapest roofing materials. It has rubber, plastic, and recycled wood fibers. It’s an attractive and low-maintenance material that comes with a 25 year warranty.

Installation costs can vary, but are usually between $7.00-$10.00 per square foot. Giving home owners the peace of mind that their roofs will last for many years!

Concrete tiles

Concrete tiles have been a go-to roofing material for many years. They offer great protection from the elements, such as fire and wind. Plus, they come in a variety of colors to spruce up your home exterior. They’re lightweight and simple to install, so you don’t need a professional roofer.

Plus, they may need yearly maintenance, depending on their coating. This could involve redoing the coating every so often. In the long run, they need fewer repairs than other types of roofing.

Clay tiles

Clay tiles are attractive and durable. They are slightly pricier than other roofing materials. But, they have advantages. Clay tiles are fireproof and can resist heat from outside sources like wildfires. They form an airtight seal, making them great for homes in hot climates. Clay tiles come in various shapes and sizes, adding a stylish look to any home. When installed by a pro, clay tiles last for many years.

The downside is that they may discolor when exposed to certain elements. Also, maintenance is needed to prevent water damage.

Slate tiles

Slate tiles are pricey, yet they offer great durability and longevity making them an attractive option. It’s vital to know some facts about slate before making a decision. It’s made of natural stone and colors such as gray, green, purple, and black can vary depending on the installation site. Light to dark shades are achievable.

Slate is extremely durable and fireproof. With proper installation it can last 100 years or more. Its classic look is unparalleled. Slate roofing has been around since Ancient Rome, and is still seen on prestigious buildings today.

Wood shingles

Wood shingles are a favorite amongst many homeowners – they look natural! They’re usually made of either cedar or pine, with cedar being pricier.

This roofing material is lightweight and can be set up easily by a skilled DIYer with basic tools. It offers durability and a classic look, although it won’t last as long as metal or composite roofs.

Green roofs

Green roofs are a sustainable and energy-efficient roofing system. They feature layers of vegetation, making them aesthetically pleasing and functional. They are lighter and simpler to install than traditional materials, like asphalt shingles or concrete tiles. Plus, they provide insulation. This helps reduce heating costs in cold climates and cooling costs in warm climates.

Initially, green roofs may be expensive. But, they have an extended lifespan, so this brings long-term savings on repair and replacements.

Thatch roofs

Thatch roofs have been around for centuries. They are affordable and made of dried vegetation like rushes, reeds and straws, held together with rope or string.

Advantages include: lightweight, good insulation and wind resistance. Downsides: they need to be inspected yearly. Also, they need more maintenance than other types of roofs, and will need repair or replacement more often due to their lack of durability.

Frequency Ask Question

How long do asphalt shingles last?

The lifespan of asphalt shingles can vary depending on the quality of the material, climate, and installation. Typically, asphalt shingles can last between 15 to 30 years. However, regular maintenance and inspections can help extend the lifespan of the shingles.

Are there any downsides to using asphalt shingles?

Yes, there are some downsides to using asphalt shingles. They are not as durable as some other materials, such as metal or tile, and can be susceptible to damage from severe weather, such as hail or high winds. Additionally, they are not as environmentally friendly as some other options and can contribute to landfills when replaced.

Are there any other inexpensive roofing materials?

Yes, there are some other inexpensive roofing materials, including rolled roofing, corrugated metal, and asphalt roll roofing. However, it’s important to consider factors such as durability, aesthetics, and local building codes when choosing a roofing material.

Can I install asphalt shingles myself to save money?

t is possible to install asphalt shingles yourself to save money, but it’s important to have the proper knowledge, tools, and safety equipment. Improper installation can lead to leaks and other issues, which can be costly to repair. It’s always recommended to consult with roofing professional such as Mighty Dog Roofing.

Zakynthos Neo

I am a multi-talented designer and contractor with over 10 years of experience in the field. I have a passion for creating beautiful, innovative spaces that reflect my clients’ needs and styles. My skills include architectural design, interior design, space planning, project management and construction supervision.