Should I take the contractor's '0% for 18 months' offer?

Only if you can pay the balance in full before the promo ends. Otherwise the dealer fee makes it more expensive than a HELOC.

Does insurance-funded work still need financing?

Often yes — for the deductible and any upgrades (impact shingles, metal). Most contractors let you finance just that portion.

Roof Financing in 2026: Every Option Ranked by True Cost

A $20,000 roof financed the wrong way can cost $32,000. Financed the right way, it costs $22,500. Same roof.

Here are every 2026 financing option, ranked by real all-in cost including fees.

1. HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit)

Best rate available in 2026: 8.0–9.5% variable. Interest may be tax-deductible if used for home improvement. Requires ~15% equity and a 680+ FICO.

$20,000 at 8.5% for 5 years = $410/mo, $4,600 total interest.

2. Personal loan (unsecured)

Rates: 9–18% based on FICO. No collateral, funded in 1–3 days. Best for owners with limited equity.

3. Contractor 'in-house' financing

Advertised as '0% for 18 months.' Reality: 26.99% APR after the promo, and the contractor pays a 6–12% dealer fee that gets baked into your price. You're paying 8% extra whether you know it or not.

4. Credit card

Only viable if you have a 0% intro APR card AND can pay off before the promo ends. Otherwise 22–29% APR is the worst option on this list.

5. PACE financing (property tax add-on)

Rates 6.5–8.5% but attaches a lien to your property. Complicates future sale — many buyers walk. Only use if HELOC is unavailable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I take the contractor's '0% for 18 months' offer?: Only if you can pay the balance in full before the promo ends. Otherwise the dealer fee makes it more expensive than a HELOC.
Does insurance-funded work still need financing?: Often yes — for the deductible and any upgrades (impact shingles, metal). Most contractors let you finance just that portion.