You may have decided that you need to replace your building’s roof. It is looking a little worn and it is older than 20 years. However, the cost of replacing a roof can be huge.
There are different materials one can use to replace a roof. Each material has its own benefits and, of course, its own price tag.
Something to bear in mind when looking for the cheapest way to cover a roof is cost vs quality. There may be excellent cheaper alternatives to use, but their quality might result in them being a more costly choice in the long run.
Different materials available
The cost of re-roofing your building depends on numerous factors. These include the size of the roof as well as the type of roof you prefer. In addition, it also depends on where your property is located, and the capital costs of the roofing company hired to replace the roof.
Roof tiles
Different roof tiles are available for a good looking, strong and sturdy roof. Some roof tiles are more costly than other types.
- Clay roof tiles – these are roof tiles made from clay, and are known for their durability, aesthetic value, and longevity. They are also an excellent choice as they are fire and weather resistant.
While an excellent roofing material choice, clay roof tiles can be a costly option. This does depend on the size of the tile and the size of the roof itself. They are most expensive than concrete roof tiles.
- Concrete roof tiles – Concrete roof tiles offer the same top benefits as clay roof tiles. In addition, they have an excellent price-quality ratio. Choosing concrete roof tiles is an excellent option as you can use them for any type of roof. Furthermore, they are a more affordable option than clay roof tiles.
Concrete roof tiles also have a high moisture resistance, and are also resistant to cracks and bending. Furthermore, concrete roof tiles are available in a wide variety of colours and shapes.
- Slate
Natural slate tiles have been used in roofing for centuries, and slate is well-known for its durability, heritage style, and long lifespan.
Slate adds style and sophistication to a roof. However, it is one of the most expensive roofing materials on the market.
-
Galvanised steel panels
The galvanised steel panels are made out of zinc-coated steel sheets. As a result, they won’t corrode regardless of the weather conditions. They can also help reduce energy bills by up to 20%, giving them an added plus point as a roofing material.
Galvanised steel roofs are available in many different colours, and allow you the opportunity to customise the look of your roof. They are also an affordable option, and their cost is often considerably less than other roofing options.
-
Asphalt shingles or Bitumen Roofing Sheets
This is best for low pitched or flat roofs. Typically, a low-pitched roof is made with a pitch between 10° and 35°. Anything below the 10° marker is considered a flat roof.
Bitumen roofing sheets are the least tile-like alternative form of roofing. As such, instead of tiles, they come in the form of shingle strips. They look the most similar to slate.
-
Plastic roof tiles
Don’t be misled by the name. Plastic roof tiles are not a cheap, environmentally unfriendly product. Rather, they are generally a mixture of limestone and recycled plastic material. They are also strong and durable.
While they don’t offer the same level of status as other roofing materials such as slate and clay roof tiles, they are nevertheless a good option for those wanting to keep costs low.
Plastic roof tiles can be installed on any pitch roof, from 14.5° all the way up to 90°. Furthermore, once they reach their lifespan of 40 odd years, they can be recycled.
The unique design of plastic roof tiles means they can withstand harsh environmental conditions. Furthermore, they can provide an attractive finish for any building.
-
Felt roofing
This is a versatile and robust roofing system. It is typically used for flat roofs. Strong and durable, it is an excellent choice to provide strength to a flat roof. It is also an affordable option compared to other flat roofing materials.
-
EDPM Rubber roofing
EPDM roofing is a type of rubber roofing material. EPDM is an acronym for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer. It is a synthetic rubber and is ideal as a roof as it has a good reputation for withstanding the elements.
EPDM roofing is also known for its durability and longevity. As such, it is an ideal roofing material. It is typically for use on flat roof buildings but is also suitable for a roof with a higher pitch. However, it is best for a low pitch roof or a flat roof.
As it is a versatile roofing material, it is ideal for roofs that experience wet weather conditions and are prone, otherwise, to leaks.
So, which is the cheapest way to cover a roof?
If you are considering the cost of material for a pitch roof per square metre, then bitumen roofing is the best choice. However, taking the durability and longevity of the roofing material into consideration, concrete roof tiles are the more affordable option.
On the other hand, if you are looking at costing for a flat roof, roofing felt is the most cost-effective product. The initial capital outlay for this product is low. However, if you are looking at the cheapest flat roofing material in terms of longevity and high performance, EPDM membrane is the best choice.
We’re proud to offer a broad range of excellent quality, yet affordable roofing products. Should you need assistance in choosing the most cheapest way to cover a roof, contact us today. We are happy to assist.
