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Which is cheaper, rolled roofing or shingles?

Published in Roofing Material Costs 3 mins read

Rolled roofing is generally cheaper than shingles, both in terms of material cost and the labor required for installation, maintenance, and repair.

Rolled roofing stands out as the more budget-friendly option when considering initial investment and ongoing labor needs compared to traditional shingles. While shingles often offer greater longevity and aesthetic appeal, their higher material price, coupled with more demanding installation and maintenance, makes them a more substantial overall investment.

Understanding the Cost Differences

The primary reason rolled roofing is less expensive lies in several factors:

  • Material Cost: Rolled roofing materials are typically less expensive per square foot than asphalt or other types of shingles.
  • Labor and Expertise: Installing rolled roofing often requires less specialized labor and time compared to laying individual shingles, which significantly reduces installation costs. Maintenance and future repairs for rolled roofing also tend to be less labor-intensive.

To provide a clearer picture, here's a comparison of these two common roofing materials:

Feature Rolled Roofing Roofing Shingles
Initial Cost Lower Higher
Installation Simpler, faster, less labor-intensive More complex, time-consuming, requires more skill
Durability Shorter lifespan (5-10 years typical) Longer lifespan (15-30+ years typical)
Maintenance Generally easier, less frequent patching More involved, individual shingle replacement
Aesthetics Basic, utilitarian appearance Wide variety of styles, colors, and textures
Ideal Use Low-slope roofs, sheds, garages, temporary fixes Steep-slope roofs, primary residences, commercial
Repair Cost Often simpler and less costly Can be more expensive due to labor and matching

Rolled Roofing: The Economical Choice

Rolled roofing, also known as asphalt roll roofing, is a cost-effective solution often chosen for its affordability and ease of application. It comes in large, continuous rolls, typically 3 feet wide, making it quick to install on certain types of roofs.

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Its lower material cost and reduced installation time make it ideal for projects where budget is a primary concern. This includes outbuildings like sheds, garages, workshops, and low-slope (or flat) roofs where water drainage isn't a major issue, or as a temporary roofing solution.
  • Simplicity: The large sheets mean fewer seams and a faster application process, which translates directly into lower labor costs.

However, its lifespan is generally shorter than shingles, meaning it may need replacement more frequently.

Roofing Shingles: A Greater Investment for Longevity and Aesthetics

Roofing shingles, particularly asphalt shingles, are the most common roofing material for residential homes. While they involve a higher upfront cost, they offer significant benefits that contribute to their long-term value.

  • Higher Initial Cost: Shingles are more expensive per square foot than rolled roofing. This higher cost is compounded by the more intensive labor required for their installation, as each shingle must be carefully layered and fastened.
  • Substantial Investment: The total investment for shingles is more substantial due to their material cost and the increased labor and expertise needed for installation, as well as for ongoing maintenance and repair.
  • Durability and Aesthetics: Shingles boast a much longer lifespan and come in a vast array of colors, styles, and textures, providing superior curb appeal. This makes them the preferred choice for primary residences and buildings where aesthetics and long-term durability are key priorities.

For more detailed information on various roofing costs and materials, you can consult resources like HomeAdvisor's Roofing Cost Guide.

In conclusion, for those prioritizing the lowest initial expenditure, rolled roofing is the clear winner. However, for a longer-lasting, more aesthetically pleasing roof, shingles represent a more substantial, yet often worthwhile, investment over time.