Why Roofing Prices Changed in the Last 5 Years

Over the last five years, it seems like the prices on everything has increased. Whether it be milk or eggs or gasoline for your gas; the price has steadily risen. The cost of a new roof is no different. But do you know why roofing prices changed in the last five years?

It’s due to a combination of material costs increasing, skilled labor shortages and higher operational costs for contractors.

Asphalt shingles depend heavily on petroleum. Rising oil prices directly increase manufacturing costs. Prices for steel, aluminum and copper have jumped due to trade tariffs and supply chain pressures. All heavily influencing the rising costs of making asphalt shingles. These materials used to only see a cost rise once, maybe twice a year. Over the last five years, these costs have seen frequent upward adjustments by the manufacturing.

This causes the cost of manufacturing are then passed down to those who ultimately purchase the product.

Then you add the shortage of labor available. Over the last five years, more skilled laborers have retired from the industry, then have entered the industry. Leaving fewer available workers to actually do the work.

To retain the workers the roofing contractor can actually use, contractors offer better pay, healthcare and retirement benefits which increase overall installation costs.

On top of all of this, general liability, auto, and workers compensation insurance for roofing companies have skyrocketed. This too forces roofing contractors to raise prices to stay profitable. 

So the next time you need a new roof or even a repair, keep in mind all the rising costs you see around you in your every day life. Those same rising costs are also in the roofing industry.

If you have questions about a new roof or a roof repair, call your locally owned roofing contractor, BB Roofing and we will walk you through all the options that fit your needs and your budget. Call BB Roofing for a free, no obligation estimate today!