Houses are going to eventually need roof repair, whether it is due to Mother Nature or just the age of the home. When you begin to look for a new roof, you will discover there are a multitude of options. The prices will range from expensive to reasonable and then you have to factor in the maintenance. Regardless of the price, most materials will last more than two decades if they are properly installed.
Asphalt
One of the most popular choices for roofing materials is asphalt, mainly because it is the cheapest one on the market. Shingles made of asphalt are generally a dollar per square foot. However, in addition to being cheap, these shingles are also very durable and can be found in single pieces or rolled. The biggest downfall to an asphalt roof is how susceptible they are to severe weather. Ice and extreme winds will cause damage.
Metal
If you are looking for a cheap option that is more weather resistant, you will want to look at metal shingles. These shingles, often made of galvanized steel, copper, zinc, or lead, can handle everything up to a hurricane. They do vary in price from under two dollars a square foot to closer to six dollars. The best part about metal roofs is how simple they are to install and rarely take much time.
Clay
While rarely one of the cheaper options, clay shingles are popular because of how long they last. They are resistant to weather, molding, and insect damage. You will need to consider the up-front price of installation, which can cost between $100 and $400 a square foot, but they will last for decades. This does make them one of the cheaper overall options because you will not need to replace them likely for the life of your home.
Wood
The final cost-effective way to re-shingle your house is to use shingles made of wood. These shingles are made of cedar, because they are weather resistant and slow to decay. You will need to decide if you want them mechanically cut, shingle, or hand cut, a shake. They are cheaper than clay but are susceptible to heavy winds. Prices will vary based on size of the shingle, the style, and who manufactured it.
Regardless of the material you select, you will want to determine what your needs are before you re-shingle your roof. Talk to a professional that can help you determine what your house needs, if you need to redo the insulation on your house, and what best fits your budgetary needs.
Bonus:
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