Has the weather taken a toll on your roof too? Are you looking for a roof replacement in Gainesville? We know how daunting the idea of replacing your roof can be, especially when you’re worried about the expenses involved. But fear not, we are here to help you.
Our team at Division Kangaroof has been working in the area for quite some time now, and we know how costly a roof replacement can be, and despite the financing options available, your wallet can take a hit.
But don’t fret because we’ve got some fantastic alternatives up our sleeves that strike the perfect balance between affordability and durability.
#1 Asphalt Shingles
When it comes to budget-friendly roofing, asphalt shingles will surely take the cake. No matter where you do your research, you will definitely find the asphalt roofing shingles at the top of any list of the cheapest roofing materials.
This is the most popular roofing material for a reason. Not only is it affordable, but shingles also come in a wide range of styles and colors to suit your home’s architecture. Asphalt shingles are categorized into 3 broad categories:
- 3-Tab shingles
- Laminated Shingles
- Luxury Shingles
Out of this list, 3-tab roof shingles are the cheapest roofing materials available on the market. Luxury shingles are an advanced version and are more expensive, but are also better in terms of both aesthetics and durability.
Here are a few reasons why asphalt shingles are cheap:
- Asphalt shingles are manufactured using asphalt, which is a widely available and affordable petroleum-based material.
- Asphalt shingles are lightweight and easy to transport, which minimizes shipping expenses.
- Asphalt roof shingles are also easy to install, making the process quicker and more cost-effective.
Limitations Of Asphalt Shingles
- If you’re looking for a roofing material to last half a century or more, you might want to explore other options.
- Extreme temperature fluctuations can impact the performance of asphalt shingles.
- In extremely hot climates, they may age more rapidly, so it’s essential to consider your region’s weather conditions.
Also Read: Can You Paint An Asphalt Roof?
#2 Metal Roofs
From asphalt shingles, we move to our next cheap roofing alternative, a metal roof. Now let’s get one thing clear, metal roofing systems are not as cheap as asphalt shingles, but stand tall when it comes to the value you’ll receive for the price.
While the initial cost might be higher than asphalt shingles, the long-term benefits are worth it. Metal roofs can last for 50 years or more, and they reflect heat, keeping your home cooler during hot summers.
Plus, it looks cool and modern, adding a touch of class to any house. So, if you want a roof that’s strong, sleek, and won’t let you down, metal roofing is the way to go!
Pros Of Metal Roofs
- Metal roofs can last much longer than other roofing materials. Aluminum and steel roofs can last for 40-60 years. On the other hand, premium copper metal roofs can last for over 100 years.
- It can withstand harsh weather conditions like heavy rain, strong winds, and snow, without getting damaged easily.
- Metal roofs reflect sunlight, reducing the heat absorbed by your home, which can lead to lower cooling costs in hot climates.
Cons Of Metal Roofs
- The upfront cost of metal roofing can be higher than some other materials, which might be a drawback for budget-conscious homeowners.
- Some people find that rain hitting a metal roof can be noisier compared to other roofing materials, but this can be mitigated with proper insulation.
Also Read: The Best Metal Roof Styles for Your Home (Photo Gallery)
#3 Wood Shingles
Wood shingles bring a touch of timeless charm to your home’s roof. Crafted from natural wood, each shingle bears a unique character, adding rustic elegance to your abode.
Wood shingles look superb when the sun shines over them. You’ll witness a warm, golden hue, creating a visual delight that enchants all who behold it. Beyond aesthetics, these shingles boast exceptional insulation properties and reduce your reliance on your heating and cooling systems (HVAC systems).
Types Of Wood Used For Wood Shingles
Various types of natural wood are used to create breathtaking shingles, and some options are cheaper than others. Here are some of them:
Cedar:
Cedar shingles are one of the most popular types of wood shingles among homeowners in Georgia. Cedar wood is a classic option and is cheaper than other types too.
– Cypress:
Another beloved wood for shingles, it boasts inherent strength and decay resistance. Derived from the bald cypress or the white cypress tree, this wood showcases a stunning blend of light and dark tones
– Composite / Synthetic Wood Shingles
When you are looking for cheap roofing alternatives, composite wood shingles can be your best choice. These are made from several different wood fibers and are manufactured in factories.
Pros Of Wood Shingles
- Wood shingles exude a classic, natural charm, adding a warm and rustic look to your home’s exterior.
- Wood has natural insulating properties, which can help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption.
- Wood shingles are a renewable and biodegradable roofing option, making them an environmentally conscious choice.
Cons Of Wood Shingles
- Wood shingles require a lot of attention. Without adequate maintenance and protection, wood shingles can be susceptible to decay, rot, and damage from insects and moisture.
- Natural wood is a combustible material, and certain regions with fire safety regulations may restrict the use of wood shingles.
#4 Synthetic Slate Roof
You must be thinking, Uh! What’s a premium roofing material like a slate roof doing in the list of cheap roofing alternatives? Well, yes, we agree a slate roof is one of the more expensive roofing systems out there. But know that if you install a slate roof, you may just achieve long-term savings by installing a roof that requires minimal maintenance and repairs for over your lifetime.
However, an even better option in terms of cost is the synthetic slate option.
Synthetic slate is a marvel of modern engineering. This material emulates the exquisite beauty of natural slate while offering good durability and affordability.
Crafted from a combination of recycled rubber and plastic, or a composite of various materials, synthetic slate shingles mirror the appearance and texture of genuine slate, providing an elegant and sophisticated roofing solution.
Its lightweight nature makes installation a breeze, reducing the strain on your home’s structure, while its superior weather resistance ensures resilience against hail, wind, and fire.
Top Brands:
DaVinci Roofscapes:
Renowned for its high-quality synthetic slate shingles, DaVinci Roofscapes offers a wide range of colors and profiles, providing homeowners with ample choices to suit their architectural preferences.
EcoStar:
Focused on sustainability, EcoStar manufactures synthetic slate shingles from 80% recycled rubber and plastic, offering an environmentally conscious roofing alternative.
Brava Roof Tile:
Brava Roof Tile’s synthetic slate shingles not only showcase the beauty of genuine slate but also deliver superior performance against extreme weather conditions.
Pros of Synthetic Slate Shingles:
- Synthetic slate is a more budget-friendly option compared to natural slate, making it accessible to homeowners seeking a high-end look without the steep price tag.
- Lightweight: Its lightweight composition allows for easier installation, reducing labor costs and potential strain on the roof’s structure.
- Environmentally Friendly: Made from recycled materials, synthetic slate is an eco-conscious choice, contributing to reduced waste and resource conservation.
Cons Of Synthetic Slate Shingles
- Some synthetic slate shingles might exhibit slight variations in color or texture, which could be perceived as less authentic compared to natural slate.
- In the event of damage, repairing or replacing synthetic slate shingles can be more challenging due to their unique manufacturing process.
- Certain synthetic slate products may not perform optimally in extremely cold climates, as they can become brittle in freezing temperatures.
This finishes our list of the top roofing materials that won’t hurt your pocket. If you are on a budget you can also check out our other blog in this series: Cheap Siding Options (2024)
Trust Us To Install Your New Roof
When it comes to cheap alternative roofing materials that won’t break the bank, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you prefer the classic look of asphalt shingles or the durability of metal roofing, each of these roofing materials has something unique to offer.
No matter what you decide for your roof, we can offer our help. At Division Kangaroof, we have a team of experienced roofing professionals who have been working in Georgia and the surrounding areas for years. We install quality roofing materials such as asphalt shingles and wood shakes. Contact us today at (918) 260-4075.
FAQ’S
A. Not at all! These roofing alternatives offer cost-effective solutions without compromising quality. Many of them provide long-lasting durability and are manufactured with advanced materials for superior performance.
A. YA solar roof is surely the next big thing. For environmentally conscious homeowners looking to save on energy bills, solar shingles are an innovative option. These shingles harness the power of the sun and convert it into electricity for your home. However, they surely do not come cheap. Since these are a newer phenomenon, their cost is a bit higher than regular shingles, however, they can be useful in the long run.
A. Consider factors like your budget, climate, home’s architectural style, and the longevity you desire. Consulting with a professional roofing contractor can also help you make an informed decision.
