Pricing reviewed October 2026
| Material | Installed cost / sq ft | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 3-tab asphalt shingles | $4.50 – $7.50 | 2026 cost guide |
| Architectural shingles | $6 – $9 | 2026 cost guide |
| Metal roofing | $8 – $14 | 2026 cost guide |
| Synthetic slate | $9 – $15 | 2026 cost guide |
| Natural slate | $15 – $30 | 2026 cost guide |
| Clay / concrete tile | $10 – $20 | editorial estimate |
| Wood shakes | $7 – $13 | editorial estimate |
| Flat roof (TPO / EPDM) | $5 – $10 | editorial estimate |
| Material | Typical lifespan (general industry range) |
|---|---|
| Asphalt shingles | 15–30 years |
| Metal | 40–70 years |
| Slate | 75–100+ years |
| Clay/concrete tile | 50+ years |
| Wood shakes | 20–40 years |
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Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest roofing material?
3-tab asphalt shingles, at about $4.50 to $7.50 per square foot installed.
Roof figures marked as from the 2026 cost guide ($4–$11/sq ft installed; ~$9,000–$18,000 typical replacement; 3-tab $4.50–$7.50, architectural $6–$9, metal $8–$14, synthetic slate $9–$15, natural slate $15–$30) come from the RoofingCostEstimate 2026 cost guide. Tile, wood shake and flat-roof ranges, tear-off add-ons, pitch/story multipliers and city adjustments are editorial estimates based on typical scope, materials and labor — not survey data. Compare written quotes from licensed local roofers.