Angie’s List recently surveyed 75 service companies (roofers, painters, asphalt driveway installers, window and lawn care companies) to get their take on rising prices. Angie’s List found that the price of asphalt shingles has increased between 15% and 50% and paint costs are increasing by $3 a can.
Along with these findings comes some advice for consumers.
* Don’t be shocked if you’re paying more for products like vinyl windows, plastic pipes, lawn fertilizer, oil filters and tires. They’re all petroleum-based and affected by the fuel crunch.
* Insist on itemized changes for material costs so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
* If you’re starting a home improvement project with a contractor, include costs of materials in your list of questions, and try negotiating.
* Expect to wait longer for custom orders. Most suppliers won’t be sending half-full trucks with gas prices as high as they are.