It’s not just the gas and groceries. Let’s discuss the elephant in the room: the increasing cost of roofing materials due to the ongoing challenges posed by inflation.

We’re certainly not a fan of the increases any more than our homeowners are, but we’ve sharpened our pencils and will continue to deliver the best possible roof at the best possible price. Now more than ever it is important to not simply go with a friendly salesman who will quote a bare-bones price for a bare-bones roof. In this blog post we’ll delve into how inflation is impacting the cost of roofing materials and share strategies for making informed choices without breaking the bank.

Before diving into the specifics of roofing material costs, it’s essential to understand the broader context of inflation. Factors such as rising production costs, rising asphalt costs (for making singles), hurricanes in the south or regional building spikes, supply chain disruptions and increased demand can all drive up prices.

Roofing materials usually increase by around 5% per year, but they are up 20% over the past two years alone. However, the trend does seem to be stabilizing.

Roofing materials are not immune to the effects of inflation. Here are some key reasons why roofing material costs have been on the rise:

• Raw Material Costs: Many roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles and metal roofing, rely on raw materials like oil and steel. Fluctuations in the prices of these commodities can directly affect the cost of roofing materials. This is the core driver of the recent roofing price increases.
• Increased Demand: High demand for roofing materials, driven by factors like housing market growth and renovation projects, can lead to higher prices. Suppliers may raise prices in response to increased demand. Sometimes demand spikes happen in other parts of the country, tightening the supply universally.
• Labor Costs: Inflation can also impact labor costs, as construction workers may demand higher wages to keep up with rising living expenses. This, in turn, can affect the overall cost of roofing projects.

Despite the challenges posed by inflation, homeowners still have options to make cost-effective roofing decisions:

1. Consider Repairs: Search volume for “roofing repairs” has increased relative to “roof replacement” search volume in 2023. We always consider whether a repair will work first, but if the problem is found across your whole roof (shingle granule loss, soft spots, other age-related issues) then a roof replacement is going to be necessary.
2. Research and Compare: Start by researching different roofing materials and their pros and cons. We can show you the shingles we chose to put on our own homes and lay out our recommendations for “Good, Better, Best” options at varying price points.
3. Budgeting/Planning: Create a realistic budget for your roofing project. Get an estimate (link) and know what you’re in for. Ask about financing options and come up with a payment plan.
4. Insurance: If your home was hit by hail or other natural forces that are causing problems with your roof, you may be able to get the new roof covered by insurance, though it can be tricky. Ask us about your options.
5. Energy Efficiency: Your roof and attic insulation can save you money. Consider investing in energy-efficient roofing materials. A slightly higher upfront cost may can lead to long-term savings and offset the initial expense.
6. Consult with Professionals: Seek advice from roofing professionals who won’t quote you a roof with incomplete parts (which voids the warranty) and cut corners to give the lowest price. Unfortunately, we are actively seeing more of these poor business practices in the market right now.
7. Preferred Contractor Status: Some roofing companies may have access to cost-saving options for doing a lot of work with certain suppliers/manufacturers. Lang Home Exteriors has access to several of these discounts. The sooner we can order the materials, the sooner we can lock in a price.

Additionally, it’s essential to research and understand the warranty and durability of different roofing materials. While cost is an important factor, it shouldn’t be the sole determining factor in your decision. Look for materials that come with a solid warranty and a proven track record of performance and durability. Investing in high-quality roofing materials can add value to your home and provide peace of mind, knowing that your roof can withstand the test of time and harsh weather conditions.

It looks like the higher prices are here to stay, so despite these higher costs, with careful planning and informed decision-making homeowners can still get savvy about ensuring they get a quality roof for the best possible price. You probably already know this, but the cheapest option is pretty much always cheap for a reason.

As you embark on your roofing journey, Lang Home Exteriors is here to assist you every step of the way. Our experienced team can provide guidance on material selection and make the process as painless as possible for both you and your bank account. Your home deserves the best, and we’re here to make it happen. Contact us today to start your roofing project.