The cheapest shingles you can buy are three-tab asphalt shingles, which are the most basic economy grade of asphalt roofing, costing significantly less than architectural dimensional shingles. Among currently available brands in North America as of 2024-2026, the cheapest options include TAMKO Elite Glass-Seal three-tab at about 75 to 100 dollars per bundle or 225 to 300 dollars per square covering 100 square feet, IKO Marathon 25 three-tab at 80 to 105 per bundle, GAF Royal Sovereign three-tab at 80 to 110 per bundle, Owens Corning Supreme three-tab at 85 to 115 per bundle, and CertainTeed XT 25 three-tab at similar pricing. Three-tab shingles are cheapest because they have a single layer fiberglass mat, flat uniform appearance, lighter weight, and shorter warranty of 20 to 25 years versus architectural shingles which have two laminated layers, dimensional look, and 30 year plus life. You can find cheapest prices at Home Depot, Lowe's, or local building supply during off-season sales in late fall and winter, or by buying by the pallet for contractor discount. However, cheapest upfront is not always cheapest long-term because three-tab lasts 15 to 20 years versus architectural lasting 25 to 30 years and has lower wind rating of 60 mph versus 130 mph for architectural, so may need earlier replacement and more repairs.
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