Roof replacement is a significant investment for any homeowner. However, the cost of a complete shingle roof replacement has been steadily increasing over the past few years and there are no signs of a slow down. Additionally, the quality of asphalt shingles has deteriorated, leading to a decline in the life expectancy of a roof.

We felt it was important to explore and expose why costs are rising for a complete shingle roof replacement and why the quality of asphalt shingles has deteriorated.

According to a report by HomeAdvisor, the average cost of a new roof installation in the United States is $9081-$12,444. The report cites the rising cost of materials and labor as the primary reason for the increase in cost. The cost of raw materials such as asphalt, oil, and steel has increased over the years, resulting in higher prices for shingle manufacturers. This increase in cost is then passed on to homeowners when they purchase shingles for their roof replacement.

Additionally, the demand for roofing services has also increased, which has resulted in higher prices. According to Angi's List, "The rise in home improvement spending has led to a shortage of skilled labor, and the demand for roofing services has skyrocketed. The increased demand, coupled with a shortage of qualified roofers, has driven up the cost of roof repairs and installations."

The deterioration in the quality of asphalt shingles is another reason why the life expectancy of a roof has declined. Over the years, shingle manufacturers have been using less asphalt in their shingles to reduce costs. As a result, the shingles have become thinner and more susceptible to damage from the elements. According to an article by Consumer Reports, "Many shingles made today are thinner and less durable than shingles made in the past. The reduced thickness and durability can make the shingles more susceptible to damage from wind, hail, and other weather events."

Furthermore, the quality of the fiberglass mat used in shingles has also deteriorated. The fiberglass mat is the foundation of the shingle, and a poor-quality mat can lead to shingles that are more prone to damage. According to an article by The Spruce, "The quality of the fiberglass mat has a significant impact on the durability of the shingle. Lower quality mats can lead to premature cracking and splitting, reducing the life expectancy of the shingle."

In conclusion, the rising cost of a complete shingle roof replacement can be attributed to the increase in the cost of materials and labor. However, the decline in the quality of asphalt shingles has also contributed to the decrease in the life expectancy of a roof. Homeowners should be aware of these factors when considering a roof replacement because the days of a 25-30 year old roof is long gone.

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