Rising Asphalt Costs Shouldn’t Have Homeowners Improvising

Increasing asphalt costs is an unpopular topic, but because we like to be an open book with our customers, we thought it best to be upfront about pricing changes and stress that it shouldn’t be the only determining factor when buying or repairing a roof.

The Background

Material costs, asphalt in particular, have spiked recently with multiple price increases this year alone on roofing-related products. Asphalt shingles prices have been bumped as much as 14%.

So Many Things to Consider

Cost is important, but it’s only one part of the equation when buying or repairing a roof. Its importance will depend on your needs and how much you are willing to spend, but it should never be the only factor.  Reputable roofing contractors can often find a solution that fits your needs and budget. With increased costs, the temptation can be great to improvise by either finding a contractor offering a “deal” or delaying repairs or replacement.

The Deal Too Good to Be True

Never was the adage “you get what you paid for” truer than in the roofing industry. Our friends at Kelly Roofing note that “fly-by-nighters” employ many underhanded tactics to swindle homeowners. The problem is reviews might not be accurate because these companies can go out of business every few years and begin again under a new name to void warranties and can change their license qualifiers to maintain a clean complaint history with the BBB.

But the quote won’t lie. If a roofing contractor is undercutting your other estimates by a large chunk of change, you should wonder how they can afford to offer such a price. Perhaps they don’t hold certifications or insurance. Or they can under-report earnings and employee wages to save on insurance premiums and avoid paying workman’s compensation. They might leave things off the initial estimate to win the job and then add costs after the fact.

Nearly 40% of roof repairs are the result of improperly installed roofs, a big reason why choosing a cheap roofing option is not the same as purchasing a knock-off brand of tissues. This decision is an investment that you’ll live with for decades. If properly installed, it will increase your home’s value and curb appeal on top of protecting it from the elements.

Click Here to read the quick and informative list of Top 10 Ways Roofers Rip off Building Owners.

I’ll Get to It…Some Day

There’s nothing wrong with taking your time to reach a decision about a new roof. It’s a huge matter that–because of the very companies mentioned above–should not be taken lightly. However, make sure you have your roof inspected on a regular basis to avoid any surprises. Staying proactive will mean paying less in the long run because roofs in need of repair or replacement can cause costly damages to the interior of your home.

There Is No Price on Peace of Mind

While these costs are out of our control, our mission is to provide the best service–paying close attention to the needs of your home–and use the highest-quality products. Cutting corners isn’t a reputable practice. Your home deserves better than that, and so do you.