Do you need a new roof? Maybe a storm blew through your neighborhood and caused damage to the roof. On the other hand, you might have an older roof that is past its prime. In any case, it is time to think about a roof replacement. Having a functional roof is essential for your safety. While you may want the best materials on the market, your budget can add some restrictions. If you want to know the cheapest roofing materials, here are a few things to consider.
How Much Does a New Roof Cost?
New Jersey roofing contractors will provide you with an estimate for the roofing project. The average cost of a new roof is around $9,000. In some situations, you may spend anywhere from $6,000 to $45,000 on the project. The highest costs are the materials and labor. Other factors affect the price, such as the working conditions, time of the year, and the company’s availability.
Additionally, the extent of the roof damage also factors into the costs. Sometimes, there is not a lot of damage. You may be able to repair a section of the roof, avoiding a complete replacement. If there is any issue with the structural integrity, it could mean a new roof and higher project costs.
Another factor in the cost is the removal of old materials. A professional company will want to remove the old components before adding anything new. If they leave the old shingles, the roof could develop leaks and other types of damage over time.
Selecting the Cheapest Roofing Material
Not all homeowners will have the same budget, and the term “cheap” can vary from person to person. Before choosing a roofing material for your home, consider the price range. From there, you can select similar products in your budget. You want to ensure that the cheaper material is durable enough to hold up to the environment. Poorly made materials often require a hefty repair in the coming years.
Here are the least expensive types of roofing materials for your home.
Asphalt
Reach out to roofing companies in South Jersey about finding an inexpensive material. Often, they will mention asphalt shingles. These materials have a low price point and lower installation costs. Typically, you can expect to pay about $1 to $2 per square foot. Asphalt is not only cheap but is one of the most popular roofing materials on the market. You have a few options with your asphalt shingles. You can choose selections in the three-tab, dimensional, or luxury categories. With these various selections, you can find the right shingle that will match the look of your home.
While asphalt shingles are the least expensive, they have a few drawbacks. These shingles will last around 15 to 20 years, but they tend to need replacement more often than other materials. That means you will have to pay for repairs. Asphalt is durable but susceptible to moisture, mold, and heat.
Rolled Roofing
Many homeowners are not familiar with rolled roofing. This material comes in several giant rolls. These individual rolls use an asphalt-infused material with a mineral granule top. Often, a contractor will fasten the rolls with nails. If you want the cheapest option, rolled roofing is the material for you. These rolls are only a few cents per square foot, making them more affordable than asphalt. The low price point comes with a few drawbacks.
Don’t expect rolled roofing materials to last. You could get anywhere from five to 10 years out of the product. Rolled roofing is fine for smaller buildings but is not the best home choice. Over time, the rolled roofing can leak. Also, the roofing granules tend to wear down, allowing water to soak through the roof. Luckily, you can quickly repair rolled roofs. If you want to save money and don’t mind repairs, then a rolled roofing material might be a good choice for the budget-conscious homeowner.
Metal
Metal is turning into a popular option. Usually, you can expect to pay $1.80 to $2.50 per square foot. Corrugated metal is also available in a large range of colors to match your exterior. In that same class, galvalume and galvanized roofs are popular options because they can last for decades. Keep in mind that metal can be noisy in a storm, but it is a stylish choice. Most metal roofs can last up to 30 to 50 years.
Cedar
Finally, cedar shake shingles are popular and a less expensive option. Most shingles start at $2 and go up. With the right amount of maintenance, these cedar shakes will last for about 30 years. Cedar will give you more insulation than an asphalt shingle, and they can hold up heavy rains, winds, and snowstorms. Plus, these shingles are easy to replace.
Cedar roofs do require regular maintenance, and the material is prone to mildew, moss, and mold. If you don’t want to keep up on the maintenance, you might consider another option.
Find an Affordable Option for Your Home
At RGB Construction, we have plenty of affordable options for those roofing repairs and replacements. Our team will review your budget and find a product that works for you. We have the expertise, knowledge, and skills to give you the best roof for your next job. Along with roofing, we can help with other home projects, such as siding and windows. If you want to schedule a free consultation, give us a call at 856-264-9093.
