The top three costs, other than the land, will be roofing, flooring, and windows.   We dive into the details of these three and provide a summary and estimated costs.

 

Roofing Comparison:

Summary 

• Cheapest upfront: Composition (asphalt) – ~$4–15/ft²; lifespan ~15–30 years.

• Mid–high cost / long-lasting: Metal roofing – ~$8–16/ft²; lifespan 30–50+ years; energy-efficient.

• High investment, top durability: Slate (natural) – $10–30/ft²; lifespan up to 200 years; very heavy.

• Balanced option: Concrete tile – $10–20+/ft²; lifespan ~50–100 years; moderate cost.

 

1. Roofing Options

• Composition (Asphalt) Shingles

  • Lifespan: ~15–30 years depending on quality (basic vs. architectural)

  • Pros: Most affordable, lightweight, easy to install, widely available, customizable in style and color.

  • Cons: Shorter lifespan, less durable compared to premium materials. 

  • Cost: Composition (Asphalt), $4–$15, Most budget-friendly.

• Metal Roofing (Standing-seam panels or metal shingles)

  • Lifespan: ~30–50 years, with some systems lasting up to 75–100 years

  • Pros: Durable, fire-resistant, recyclable, energy-efficient (can reduce cooling costs by ~40%) Lightweight and suitable for many homes without structural changes.

  • Cons: Higher upfront cost; can be noisy in heavy rain or hail; needs properly skilled installers

  • Cost: $8-$16 (shingles) to $10-$16 (seam); overall range $4-$40.  Price varies with profile and material; steel cheaper, copper pricier.

• Slate (Natural)

  • Lifespan: Extremely long — 75 to 200+ years

  • Pros: Exceptional durability, natural stone aesthetic, low maintenance.

  • Cons: Very heavy (often needs structural reinforcement) and among the highest price points

  • Cost: $10-$30; synthetic options $4-$12 Highest cost, premium value and

• Concrete Tile / Slate Alternatives

  • Lifespan: ~50–100 years

  • Pros: Lower cost compared to natural slate or clay, versatile in look, decent durability.

  • Cons: Heavy; potential issues like algae, fading, and underlayment replacement needed after ~20 years

  • Cost: $10-$20; ($3-4/ft²) Mid-range; supply-only costs lower, full install higher.

 

Additional Considerations

• Weight & Structural Needs: Heavy materials like natural slate or concrete may require structural reinforcement; light materials like metal and asphalt usually don't

• Energy Efficiency & Environmental Impact: Metal roofs reflect heat and help cut cooling costs; they're also recyclable. Asphalt shingles are less eco-friendly

• Maintenance Needs: Asphalt requires moderate upkeep. Slate and metal are low-maintenance. Concrete tiles may need periodic cleaning, underlayment replacement in ~20 years

• ROI & Property Value: Premium materials like metal or tile add significant home value and can offer long-term savings despite higher initial cost

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Window Types: Features & Functionality

 

Summary: 

• Best Value & Energy Efficiency:
  Vinyl offers a strong performance-to-cost ratio, making it a popular choice for many homeowners.

• Longest-Lasting & Premium Performance:
  Fiberglass provides long-term durability, thermal efficiency, and low maintenance—great for homebuyers who prioritize long-term return.

• Elegance & Insulation:
  Wood gives an unmatched aesthetic and natural insulation but requires commitment to upkeep.

• Modern Design & Durability:
  Aluminum shines in minimalist aesthetics and structural strength but needs thermal enhancements for energy efficiency.

• Balanced Specialty Option:
  Composite/clad frames offer blend benefits—insulation, style, low upkeep—though at a higher price, they’re often well-warranted.

 

Casement Windows

• Operation: Hinged at the side; open outward like a door using a crank mechanism.

• Pros:

  • Excellent energy efficiency—tight seals when closed reduce air infiltration.

  • Easy to open and ideal for tight spaces; wheelchair‑friendly crank operation.

  • Often provide wider, unobstructed views and contemporary aesthetics.

• Cons:

  • Mechanical crank can fail over time and may be expensive to repair.

  • Less suitable for areas where furniture or planters obstruct outward swing.

​Double-Hung Windows

• Operation: Two vertical sashes—both move up and down inside the frame.

• Pros:

  • Traditional look, widely available, and competitively priced.

  • Tilt-in sashes make cleaning easier, especially on higher floors.

  • Fewer mechanical parts can mean better long-term reliability.

• Cons:

  • Can be harder to clean from outside without tilt-wash feature.

  • Slightly less airtight than casements due to sliding tracks.

Fixed (Picture) Windows

• Operation: Do not open; purely stationary.

• Pros:

  • Excellent energy performance—simple and fully sealed.

  • Provide unobstructed views and let in abundant light.

  • Typically, lower in cost if you don’t need functionality.

• Cons:

  • No ventilation—best paired with operable windows for airflow.

 

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Flooring Types: 

Summary:

• Budget-conscious, versatile option: Laminate or vinyl—ideal for ease, water resistance, and value.

• Luxury & resale boost: Hardwood or natural stone tile, but expect higher costs.

• Comfort & insulation: Choose carpet for warmth; cork offers a quieter, softer alternative but needs care.

• Stylish & sustainable: Bamboo and cork are eco-friendly; vinyl less so.

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1. Hardwood (Solid & Engineered)

• Pros: Timeless elegance, durable, can be refinished multiple times, boosts home value.

• Cons: Sensitive to moisture, requires maintenance, higher upfront cost.

• Cost: Consumers report hardwood ranges roughly $5–$10 per sq. ft

  • Installation: $3.50–$4.50 per sq. ft

  • Higher-end: $8–$20 per sq. ft depending on species (oak, cherry).

2. Vinyl (Sheet, Plank, Luxury Vinyl LVP/LVT)

• Pros: Affordable, waterproof, scratch-resistant, wide styling options.

• Cons: Can emit VOCs, harder to refinish or recycle.

• Cost:

  • General range: $1–$7 per sq. ft (materials); install adds $1–$4

  • Vinyl plank: $3.50–$13.50 installed

  • LVT/LVP: $1.50–$12 per sq. ft, depending on quality 3. Laminate

• Pros: Budget-friendly, mimics wood/tile, easy floating installation.

• Cons: Not moisture-resistant, cannot be refinished, may show wear in time.

• Cost: Among the most affordable at $1–$7 per sq. ft, similar to sheet vinyl

4. Tile (Ceramic, Porcelain, Natural Stone)

• Pros: Highly durable and water-resistant; great for wet areas and varied finishes.

• Cons: Cold, hard underfoot, grout needs upkeep.

• Cost:

  • Ceramic: around $1–$15 per sq. ft; Porcelain: $10–$20; Stone: up to $20–$30+.

  • Installation can range $4–$10 per sq. ft due to labor intensity.

5. Carpet

• Pros: Soft underfoot, excellent sound insulation, warm, reduces noise.

• Cons: Prone to stains, holds allergens, shorter lifespan.

• Cost:

  • Basic: $2–$5 per sq. ft; mid-tier $3–$12; luxury (wool/blends): $10–$25

  • Installation: Additional $1–$3 per sq. ft

6. Bamboo

• Pros: Sustainable, durable, installs similarly to hardwood.

• Cons: More expensive than laminate; some products may emit formaldehyde.

• Cost: Generally cheaper than traditional hardwood, price likely falls in between laminate and hardwood.

​7. Cork

• Pros: Renewable, soft underfoot, antimicrobial, good insulation.

• Cons: Needs sealing, moisture-sensitive, can fade or dent.

• Cost: About $3–$8 per sq. ft (materials); installation adds $2–$5.

8. Concrete

• Pros: Ultra-durable, low maintenance, industrial vibe.

• Cons: Hard, cold underfoot, can be slippery if untreated.

• Cost: Varies widely; refinishing costs around $3–$8 per sq. ft.