Roofs are expensive, no doubt about it. In fact, that is literally the first question homeowners want to know. “Zach, how much is this roof going to cost?”.

Of course the answer is always “it depends”. One of the most crucial factors is figuring out how what roofing material we are going to use. You can always find inexpensive options on the market that fit your budget. Ideally, however, you should be able to choose the right material from the low-cost options available at the moment to replace your roof.

For this reason, we focus our efforts on providing the advice you need. This way you will have all the knowledge in your hands to make the right and efficient purchases.

So, you want to know what is the cheapest roofing material for roof replacement? In this article you will have the answer. Additionally, you will be able to review some important aspects that you should take into account when changing your roof.

Roof replacement: The “most economical” roofing material.

When it comes to doing a roof replacement with a really economical material that will help your profitability, asphalt shingles are the best choice. Of this material you will find 3 different types which are as follows:

• 3-tab shingles.
• Dimensional asphalt shingles.
• Deluxe asphalt shingles.

When replacing your roof, you should take into account that these shingles vary both in price and characteristics.

For a very tight budget the best alternative is the 3-tab shingle as these are the lowest cost. However, these are more difficult to find because over time their commercialization has decreased in the roofing market.

On the other hand, dimensional asphalt shingles are the most common. Their cost exceeds that of 3-tab shingles. Even so, they still belong to the economy class. This alternative has an acceptable service life, in addition to offering better warranty options.

Lastly, luxury asphalt shingles are considered one of the most attractive options. Their price is much higher than the previous two types, this is due to the better appearance they can provide.

If you are looking for the cheapest material to replace your roof with a new one, asphalt shingles are definitely the answer.

How to select the best type of asphalt shingles for your roof?

We know that the cost of this investment is a crucial factor for every homeowner. However, before making a roof replacement for a low-cost one you should take into account other relevant points that can determine the final satisfaction of the customer.

These are the points you should pay attention to before choosing the type of asphalt shingles for your roof.

1. Asphalt Shingles Appearance

Undoubtedly, the appearance of your roof can help make your roof look much more striking and attractive. If you are looking for an option within the economical range that offers better looks you should definitely choose dimensional or luxury shingles.

Dimensional shingles have the virtue of giving a look similar to what you get on a cedar shake roof. Likewise, as luxury shingles offer a slate look. These tend to be obvious advantages of this type of material, although they have considerable differences in value, they are still a cost-effective alternative.

Now, if you are one of those people who don’t care about the look, then 3-tab shingles will work for you. Once you are clear on this point you can place your order more precisely with your local roofing contractor.

2.  Durability of asphalt shingles

Each type of asphalt shingle has an estimated life span. For this reason, you should consider this information before replacing your roof with asphalt shingles.

Regarding the durability of this material according to each type of asphalt shingles we have:

• The 3-tab shingles, with an average durability of 25 years.
• Dimensional shingles have a durability of 30 years.
• Deluxe shingles last 30 years, extendable up to 50 years if they have the right conditions.

To ensure that the durability offered will perform as you expect, you need to pay attention to two things: the attic must be properly ventilated and the shingles must be properly installed. By taking care of these details, you take care of the lifespan of your roofing material.

3.Warranty options for asphalt shingles

Generally, manufacturers offer a warranty on the roofing material so that the customer is protected when making a specific investment.

It is very important that once you have evaluated the other considerations you pay attention to the warranty options offered by each type of asphalt roofing. Take a look here:

• The 3-tab shingle roof has a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty.
• The dimensional shingle roof has a 30-year prorated manufacturer’s warranty with an option for a 50-year enhanced warranty. (non-prorated)
• Deluxe shingle roof has a prorated 30-year manufacturer’s warranty with an option for a 50-year enhanced warranty. (non-prorated)

However, to qualify for an enhanced warranty, your roof components must be sourced entirely from the same manufacturer. Also, certain conditions apply to the validity of the warranty, if the roof is damaged due to improper installation or inefficient attic ventilation, the enhanced warranty is void.

What are the risks of choosing the cheapest material to replace a roof?

A tight budget may leave you no choice but to look for low-cost roofing materials. In this case, you should be aware of the problems that can occur in the long run. The risks of cheap roofing can be varied, however, the one you should be most concerned about is the loss of your investment.

In most cases, “saving” a little money can create problems that lead to stress and dissatisfaction.  Therefore, it is usually recommended not to use the cheapest roofing materials available on the market for roof replacements.

On the other hand, you will be able to choose among the 3 available options of asphalt shingles according to their characteristics and costs. Ideally, you will be able to find a good quality alternative for your roof that can meet your expectations.

We care about giving you efficient solutions, at the same time that we provide all the knowledge you need to make a good decision when replacing your roof for a new and more economical one.