When you’re staring at an aging roof and thinking about roof replacement, the first thing most homeowners ask is: “What’s the most affordable roofing material that still protects my home?”

Whether you’re building from scratch or replacing an old roof, finding the least expensive roofing material isn’t just about price per square foot. It’s about balancing durability, maintenance, curb appeal, and how certain materials perform over time.

Let’s break down your most cost-effective options and help you pick the right roofing material for your home and budget.

Asphalt Shingles: The Most Popular and Affordable Roofing Material

Without a doubt, asphalt shingles remain the most popular roofing material in North America—and for good reason.

They’re affordable, widely available, and easy to install.

Depending on the type, asphalt shingles can cost anywhere from $1.50 to $4.50 per square foot installed.

There are two main types:

3-tab asphalt shingles: The cheapest option. Lightweight and flat, they cost less but have a shorter lifespan.

Architectural shingles: Thicker, more attractive, and longer-lasting. Slightly more expensive but still affordable.

A typical asphalt shingle roof can last 15 to 30 years, depending on climate and installation quality. If you’re looking for a cost-effective roofing material with reliable performance, asphalt is often the top choice.

Rolled Roofing: The Cheapest Roofing Material (For the Right Roof)

If you need a quick, ultra-low-cost solution, rolled roofing might fit the bill. It’s one of the cheapest roofing materials per square foot, often priced around $1.00 to $2.00 installed.

Rolled roofing is best suited for low-slope roofs, garages, sheds, and temporary structures. It’s not ideal for a primary home with steep slopes or a need for high curb appeal, but it works for basic protection on a budget.

Keep in mind: it usually lasts only 5 to 10 years, and it’s not the prettiest. But for certain roofing projects, it’s a quick fix that gets the job done.

Corrugated Metal Panels: Durability Meets Affordability

Metal roofing might sound like a premium choice—but corrugated metal panels are surprisingly affordable.

Installed properly, they cost between $3.00 to $6.00 per square foot and can last 30 to 50 years with minimal maintenance.

Metal roofing materials like aluminum and galvanized steel are fire resistant, mold-resistant, and energy efficient—especially in hot climates. Plus, metal sheds rain and snow easily, making it ideal for sloped roofs.

If you want a blend of longevity, savings, and style, corrugated metal could be your sweet spot.

Composite Shingles: Budget-Friendly and Stylish

Composite shingles (also called synthetic or engineered shingles) mimic the look of wood or slate but come at a fraction of the cost.

Made from recycled materials, they’re lightweight, easy to install, and often cost around $4.00 to $6.00 per square foot.

They’re a popular new roofing material because they offer the look of luxury without the ongoing maintenance costs of traditional materials.

Metal Shingles and Aluminum Options

Looking for something stylish yet still affordable?

Metal shingles—especially those made from aluminum—offer a unique look and excellent durability. Aluminum shingles typically cost $4.00 to $7.00 per square foot, depending on the finish and installation.

They’re also energy efficient, reflective, and great for coastal regions where salt corrosion is a concern.

While not the cheapest, they’re more cost-effective than luxury slate or clay tile roofs and can boost your home’s curb appeal dramatically.

Wood Shingles and Shakes: Beautiful But Pricey

While wood roof shingles and wood shakes offer a rustic, natural charm, they’re not considered affordable roofing options.

Expect to pay $6.00 to $10.00 per square foot, with additional costs for ongoing maintenance, sealing, and potential mold growth.

Also, wood roofs aren’t ideal in humid or wildfire-prone areas due to their vulnerability to moisture and fire.

For many homeowners, the beauty doesn’t outweigh the overall cost—especially if you’re prioritizing affordability.

Slate and Clay: Timeless, but Not Budget-Friendly

Some of the oldest roofing materials—like clay tiles and slate shingles—are gorgeous and long-lasting, but they’re among the most expensive roofing materials on the market.

Clay tile roofing: $10.00 to $18.00 per square foot

Slate roof: $15.00 to $30.00 per square foot

These are great choices for high-end homes, historical renovations, or architectural builds, but they’re rarely considered for affordable roofing.

Even soft slate (a lighter, cheaper version) can still strain a tight budget.

Flat Roofs and Commercial Buildings: Special Roofing Systems

For flat roofs, especially on commercial buildings, materials like TPO, EPDM, and PVC roofing systems are worth considering.

They range from $4.00 to $8.00 per square foot and offer energy efficiency, waterproofing, and modern appeal.

Flat roofs also open doors to future upgrades like solar panels, green roofs, or roof coatings—making them versatile for commercial and urban properties.

Tips to Keep Roofing Costs Down

• Work with trusted roofing contractors who offer transparent pricing
• Replace only the damaged section if the entire roof isn’t failing
• Compare materials not just on price, but on longevity and maintenance
• Use recycled materials or composite alternatives when possible
• Ensure proper installation to avoid costly repairs down the road
• Your Affordable Roof, Installed the Right Way

At Evergold Roofing Group, we believe affordable roofing doesn’t mean cutting corners. Whether you’re going with asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or exploring other roofing materials, we’ll help you pick a system that fits your budget and protects your home for years to come.

Ready to plan your new roof or need help choosing the right roofing material?

Let’s talk. Get your free estimate today and discover why so many homeowners trust us for cost-effective roofing done right.