Do you save more money going cheap on your roof?
When it’s time to replace your roof, many homeowners face the same question: should you choose the cheapest option available, or invest more upfront in a high-quality roof that lasts longer? While a low-cost roof may seem like the better deal initially, the long-term math often tells a different story.
Upfront Costs: Cheap vs High Quality Roofing
Here are typical installed costs and average lifespans for common roofing materials:
| Roofing Material | Installed Cost (per sq. ft.) | Average Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Asphalt Shingles | $4 – $7 | 15–25 years |
| Architectural Shingles | $6 – $10 | 25–35 years |
| Metal Roofing | $8 – $16 | 40–70 years |
| Clay or Concrete Tile | $10 – $25 | 50+ years |
Cost Comparison Over Time
To fairly compare roofing costs, we’ll use a typical 2,000-square-foot home and evaluate costs over a 60-year period.
Option 1: Cheap Roof (Basic Asphalt Shingles)
- Initial cost: $4.50 per sq. ft. × 2,000 sq. ft. = $9,000
- Average lifespan: 20 years
- Replacements over 60 years: 3 roofs
Total 60-year cost:
- Roof 1: $9,000
- Roof 2: $9,000
- Roof 3: $9,000
Total cost over 60 years: $27,000
Option 2: High-Quality Roof (Metal Roofing)
- Initial cost: $12 per sq. ft. × 2,000 sq. ft. = $24,000
- Average lifespan: 50 years
- Replacements over 60 years: 1 roof
Total cost over 60 years: $24,000
Annualized Cost Comparison
Looking at cost per year helps show the true value of each option:
| Roof Type | Total Cost (60 Years) | Average Cost Per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingles (3 replacements) | $27,000 | $450 per year |
| Metal Roof (1 replacement) | $24,000 | $400 per year |
Additional Long-Term Savings
Maintenance & Repairs
Cheaper asphalt roofs often require more frequent repairs as they age, particularly after storms. Metal and other premium roofs resist rot, cracking, and wind damage, resulting in fewer repair costs.
Energy Efficiency
High-quality roofs, especially metal, can reflect solar heat and reduce cooling costs by up to 10–25% in warmer climates.
Home Value
Long-lasting roofing materials can increase resale value and appeal to buyers who want to avoid future roof replacement costs.
When a Cheap Roof Makes Sense
A lower-cost roof may still be the right choice if you plan to sell your home within 10–15 years, have a limited budget, or need a short-term solution. However, for long-term homeowners, repeated replacements often cost more over time.
Final Verdict
While cheap roofing options have lower upfront costs, higher-quality roofing materials usually provide better long-term value. Fewer replacements, reduced maintenance, potential energy savings, and increased home value often outweigh the higher initial investment. To get a free quote on different roofing material options and advice on their lifespan and durability, contact Noble Roofing today!
