Cheapest Roofing Materials in 2025

Cheapest Roofing Materials: Getting the Highest Value for the Lowest Cost

Though no roof is ever truly cheap, the materials you choose make a huge difference in how much your new roof will cost. From the traditional asphalt shingle to newer options like spray foam or corrugated steel, there’s a material that fits nearly every budget and style. Most roofing projects fall between $5,800 and $12,800 for a 2,000-square-foot home, with the average landing around $9,200.

Below, we break down the most affordable roofing materials, compare cost and durability by type, highlight materials with the best ROI, and offer practical tips for saving on your roof replacement.

What Is the Cheapest Material for Roofing?

Find Me Local Roofing Pros

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular and cost-effective roofing materials. There are two main types to consider if you’re on a budget:

• 3-Tab Shingles: These are the most affordable option, typically ranging from $3.50 to $5.00 per square foot. They offer a clean, uniform look and can last around 20 years with proper maintenance.
• Architectural Shingles: Also known as dimensional shingles, these provide better durability and a more layered appearance. Prices range from $4.00 to $8.50 per square foot, with a lifespan of 25 to 30 years.

Pros

• Easy and affordable installation
• Good weather resistance
• Wide variety of styles and colors

Cons

• Not the best for the environment
• Isn’t the safest for fire hazard areas
• Might need periodic repairs

Corrugated Steel

Corrugated steel starts at $4 per square foot and can last up to 45 years. It’s lightweight, weather-resistant, and budget-friendly, especially for homes with simple roof designs or minimal slope.

Pros

• Withstands harsh weather, including wind, rain, and hail, and lasts 30 to 45 years.
• Puts less stress on your home’s structure compared to heavier materials like tile or slate.
• Requires minimal upkeep over its lifetime.

Cons

• Can be louder during rain or hail without added insulation.
• More industrial in appearance compared to other metal or shingle options.
• Requires a protective finish (e.g., galvanized or Galvalume) to prevent corrosion.

Composite Shingles

Composite plastic shingles are made from recycled plastics and offer enhanced durability and eco-friendliness. These are best for those who don’t mind spending a little more to get the safety they desire and at least 20 years of solid service. Composite shingles start at $4 per square foot, but the price can increase if you opt for higher-end options.

Pros

• Eco-friendly and durable
• Can look exactly like slate or cedar shakes
• Usually comes with good warranties

Cons

• Doesn’t last as long as some other options
• Might be more expensive for installation
• Limited availability in some areas

Tar & Gravel

This tar and gravel layered roof system is ideal for someone who needs a flat roof and wants peace of mind for at least 20 years. Regular maintenance is required, but it doesn’t break the bank. Starting at $2.50 per square foot, this affordable option can be great for a strong barrier against the sun and serious weather.

Pros

• Excellent fire resistance
• Affordable maintenance
• Strong weather resistance

Cons

• Heavy enough to need additional support
• Complex installation
• Not as aesthetically pleasing as other options

Find Me Local Roofing Pros

Spray Foam Roofing

Spray foam roofing provides a seamless look and exceptional insulating properties. This is best for those who want a long-lasting material that provides up to 50 years of solid service (though it will need occasional recoating). It’s among the most affordable options, starting at $4 per square foot.

Pros

• Exceptional insulating properties
• Lasts up to 50 years or more
• Environmentally friendly

Cons

• Doesn’t stand up to debris or harsh winds
• Potential for mold growth
• Might restrict ventilation

Cedar Shingles

These are the most common wood roofs. They can last up to 25 years with proper care; however, they are a bit more expensive, starting at $6 per square foot. Cedar wood shingles are not the best at fire resistance, so they aren’t recommended for areas where wildfires are common. These are best for those who want a discerning look and aren’t in a typical fire hazard area.

Pros

• Gorgeous design options
• An eco-friendly material
• Provides excellent insulation

Cons

• Can’t stand up to wildfire
• Needs regular maintenance
• Potential for insect damage

Single-Ply Roofing / Rubber

Usually employed in commercial settings, single-ply roofing is best for those who want impressive durability but don’t care about aesthetics. In most cases, the material is actually thin rubber. The cost starts at $4.25 to $12 per square foot and has a lifespan of at least 15 years.

Pros

• Very easy installation
• Lightweight material
• Flexible to accommodate complex roofs

Cons

• No aesthetic appeal
• Membrane can be punctured by debris
• Seams can be vulnerable to leaks

Cheapest Roof Materials by Type

Choosing your roofing materials based on type can help you with design options and controlling costs.

Cheapest Metal Roof

Metal roofing offers durability, weather resistance, and long-term value. These are the top three most cost-effective metal options:

• Corrugated Steel: $4.00–$10.00 per sq. ft. — Lightweight and durable with a classic ribbed profile.
• Corrugated Aluminum: $7.00–$14.00 per sq. ft. — Resistant to corrosion, especially in coastal areas.
• Standing Seam Steel: $8.00–$16.00 per sq. ft. — Sleek, watertight panels with hidden fasteners for better protection.

Best Value: Corrugated steel is the most affordable metal roofing choice, offering strength and longevity at a low cost.

Cheapest Shingles

Shingles are a staple of residential roofing. These three types deliver the best performance for the price:

• 3-Tab Asphalt: $3.50–$5.00 per sq. ft. — The most budget-friendly and widely used shingle type.
• Architectural Asphalt: $4.00–$8.50 per sq. ft. — Thicker, more durable shingles with a layered appearance.
• Composite Shingles: $7.50–$13.00 per sq. ft. — Durable, fire-resistant shingles that mimic the look of premium materials.

Best Value: 3-tab asphalt shingles offer unbeatable affordability, while architectural shingles strike a great balance between price and durability.

Cheapest Tiles

Tile roofing is durable and stylish, and a few specific options offer real value:

• Flat Concrete Tiles: $10.70–$15.00 per sq. ft. — Affordable and long-lasting with a clean, modern look.
• Interlocking Clay Tiles: $11.00–$13.00 per sq. ft. — Classic design that reduces water penetration and boosts longevity.
• Spanish Concrete Tiles: $11.00–$15.00 per sq. ft. — Distinctive curves and good performance in hot climates.

Best Value: Flat concrete tiles are the most affordable tile option and provide strong protection with minimal upkeep.

Roof Materials With the Best ROI

While affordability matters, some roofing materials offer exceptional long-term value. These deliver a strong return on investment (ROI) through energy savings, longevity, and resale appeal:

• Solar Shingles: Starting at $21 per square foot, solar shingles can offset electricity costs over time and increase home value, especially in sunny climates.
• Slate (Natural or Synthetic): Natural slate lasts 100–150 years and synthetic alternatives offer similar aesthetics at a lower weight. With prices ranging from $8 to $35 per square foot, they’re a favorite for buyers seeking longevity and elegance.
• Copper Roofing: At $20 to $40 per square foot, copper develops a signature patina and can last more than a century. It’s prized for its style and minimal maintenance needs.

These options aren’t the cheapest upfront, but they can offer significant savings and value in the long run.

What Affects the Cost of Roofing Materials?

Beyond the type of material, several other factors can drive up or reduce your total roofing costs:

1. Roof Size and Pitch: A larger roof or one with a steep pitch requires more material and labor, increasing the final price.
2. Local Labor Rates: Installation costs can vary widely depending on your region and the current demand for roofers in your area.
3. Installation Complexity: A simple, low-pitch gable roof costs less to replace than one with dormers, valleys, or complex angles. Removing old roofing or adding new support structures also increases costs.
4. Warranties: Most roofing material comes with a solid warranty, but you can also opt for extended warranties for an extra fee.
5. Additional Items: Required items such as underlayment, any necessary repairs to the wood base, and any additional insulation.

How to Save Money on Your Roof Installation

There are some ways you can save money on your roof installation, and you don’t have to be a serious DIY enthusiast to do it!

• Repair Instead of Replace: Does your roof have some life left in it? If only a small portion of your roof is too worn or was damaged by debris or storms, you could consider replacing the affected section.
• Regular Maintenance: Making sure your roof is in good shape will slow down wear and tear. Inspect your roof with binoculars every month or so, looking for any problems. Address those issues right away.
• Compare Quotes: When you reach out to installers to put on the new roof, make sure to get at least three quotes — more is even better. Make sure the contractors are comparing apples to apples and giving you the same information. You want to get down to the price and make your comparisons with clarity.
• Haul off the Old Roof Yourself: Some contractors charge up to $500 to bring in a dumpster and haul off the old roofing. But if you want to do it yourself, you might be able to save a nice chunk of change.
• Consider Other Materials: Maybe you’ve had an asphalt roof for years and that’s what makes you comfortable, but would it be worth the extra money to go with metal? Be open to different materials than what you’ve used in the past.

Finding a Pro Roofing Contractor

When you’re ready to choose your materials and get started on your new roofing project, Modernize can help. We connect you with the best contractors in your area who are well-versed in the type of roof you want to put on your home. Let us help you find the people you need to do the best job possible for your home.

Find Me Local Roofing Pros