The cheapest roofing material: asphalt shingles
The cheapest roofing material is asphalt, averaging approximately $6.54 per square foot. However, price is not always an indicator of quality or roof longevity. The choice of both shingle brand and roofing installer significantly influences the overall quality of your roof.
The most expensive roofing material: metal roofing
The most expensive roofing material is metal, with an average cost of $19.62 per square foot. Despite its higher cost, opting for metal roofing offers a host of advantages, including extended durability, enhanced aesthetic appeal, and a potential increase in property appraisal value. Material choice isn't the sole indicator of roof quality; the brand and installation precision of the metal roofing are key for long-term performance.
How has the cost of roofing changed over time?
Since the early 1980s, the cost of roof materials have increased an average of $10 per square foot due to inflation. The largest increase in roof material costs occurred in 2008-2009 when prices increased by approximately 37.2%