If your roof needs replacing but your savings aren't quite ready, you're not alone. Whether you're dealing with storm damage, an aging roof, or just moved into a fixer-upper, the cost of a new roof can feel impossible to shoulder all at once.
At Equity Roofing, we've helped hundreds of homeowners across Central PA, Northern Indiana, and Southern Michigan navigate roofing projects they didn’t plan for. That experience has shown us one thing: most people are surprised by how accessible financing really is.
In this guide, you’ll learn what 2025 roof financing options are available, the pros and cons of each option, and how to choose a payment strategy that makes sense for your situation.
We’ll Cover:
Before exploring financing options, make sure you actually need a full roof replacement. Here are the key warning signs that warrant a professional inspection:
New roofs can range from $12,000 to $ 35,000 or more, depending on their size, material, and complexity. Materials and labor make up around 60% of the total cost.
For a more detailed breakdown of cost and example price ranges, visit our 2025 Cost Guide for Homeowners.
Homeowners can explore multiple options for financing their new roof, from working directly with their roofer to a third-party loan. Some states also offer government programs that can be used in place of or in combination with traditional financing.
| Loan Type | Recommended/Minimum Credit Score |
| Government/state programs | No minimum/low minimum below 580 |
| Personal Loans | 580+ |
| Home Equity Loan | 620+ |
| GoodLeap Financial | 650+ |
| Credit Cards | 670+ |
What it is: Unsecured loans through specialized lenders (like GoodLeap Financial) that partner with roofing companies. Approval is based on credit score and income.
Best for: Most homeowners with decent credit
What it is: Secured loans that use your home as collateral to borrow against the equity you've built up. HELOCs work like a credit line you can draw from as needed.
Best for: Homeowners with significant equity who can wait
What it is: Unsecured loans from banks or credit unions based solely on your creditworthiness and income. No collateral is required, but higher interest rates apply compared to secured loans.
Best for: Quick approval without risking your home
What it is: Using existing credit cards or applying for new ones to charge roof costs. Some offer 0% introductory rates, but most carry high interest rates.
Best for: Small repairs under $5,000 or supplementing other financing
What it is: Federal and state assistance programs designed to help homeowners with limited income, poor credit, or special circumstances finance home improvements.
Best for: Low-income homeowners, seniors 62+, or those with very limited financing options
Paying even a partial amount of your roof’s bill in cash can come with a 2–3% cash discount. The exact percentage varies by contractor and their current promotions.
Cash payments are considered ACH transfers (an electronic money transfer between banks), check, or dollars. You can use a home equity loan or HELOC for partial payment and still receive the cash discount, as long as you're not using the company's in-house financing.
Some loans may be appealing because they overlook low credit scores, but be wary of their terms and conditions.
Watch out for:
If financing through a roofing company, make sure to ask:
The ideal roofing company can track your application status, assist you with troubleshooting, and answer your questions. Look for companies that are fully integrated with their lender and have dedicated account managers who respond quickly.
Yes, as long as you own the land. If the land is owned by a family member, both parties should be on the loan.
Great question! The exact process for hardship situations varies by lender, but many offer employment protection or grace periods. Ask your roofing company's financing representative for specific details about hardship options.
Yes, and it's recommended since a higher combined income improves your debt-to-income ratio.
After realizing you need a new roof, it's common to feel overwhelmed by the potential cost, especially when the expense catches you off guard. Many homeowners have faced the same uncertainty, wondering how they'll pay without draining their savings or taking on risky debt.
Now, you understand that roof financing isn’t just possible; it’s accessible, flexible, and designed to ease the burden during an already stressful time. You’ve seen your options and know how to choose the one that best fits your situation.
At Equity Roofing, we guide homeowners through every step of the roof replacement process, from financing to final inspection. For your next step, read our article What to Expect With a New Roof Replacement so you know exactly what’s ahead before making any decisions.