Saving money is always on our minds. After all, we’ve got bills to pay, mortgages to pay off and families to support, so it’s only natural that when it comes to large purchases, we have a good think about budgeting. If you’re planning to install a roof on a budget, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll run you through the cheapest types of roofs and talk about their different qualities. We’ll also tell you why going with a slightly more expensive roof may pay off in the long run.
Asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingle tiles tend to be the cheapest roof tile. They’re lightweight and easily constructed, allowing them to remain at a low price. Asphalt shingles have a lower life expectancy than concrete or clay tiles, lasting up to 30 years with proper maintenance but with an average lifespan of 15 to 20 years. They’re also less energy efficient because they absorb the heat of the sun more, due to their light weight. So, while their purchase and installation costs are low, asphalt singles come with a few traits that might cost more than you think in the long run.
Metal
Metal is a popular option for the Australian home, proving to be an energy-efficient and long-lasting option for roofing. While the most basic types of a metal roof can be quite cheap, the highest quality copper or zinc roofs can be pretty expensive – so if you’re looking for roofing on a budget, the latter option may not be ideal. Depending on the quality of the metal and frequency of maintenance, you can expect a metal roof to last you up to 50 years.
Concrete tiles
Concrete tiles are a super popular option for roofing. They’re not as expensive as terracotta or slate and they have a much greater life expectancy than cheaper asphalt tiles. The high density of concrete tiles helps to keep a consistent temperature in your home. While concrete tiles aren’t as durable as materials like clay or slate, they can last beyond 50 years with proper maintenance, making them a suitable roofing option if your budget allows it.
The takeaway:
So, while you may be planning to save a bit of money on your roof, it’s important you consider the long-term effects of which roof material you choose. Asphalt may have a cheaper cost upfront, but it may end up costing you more in energy bills or in restoration costs 15 or 20 years down the track.
If you need some extra help with installing roofs on a budget, talk to the team at Royce Roofing. As one of Melbourne’s best roofing teams, they work alongside you to make sure you’re 100% satisfied with your roof material choice. Then, they’ll do the best quality installation job at an affordable price. Contact the team at Royce Roofing for a quote and inspection today.