What Products Stayed the Same

Roofing

50 years ago, roofs lasted for 20 years and replacement cost was about $2000 for a shingle roof. 30 years ago, you could get a roof that was advertised to last 35 years for $5000. Now a new 35 year roof could cost $7000.

Indoor Appliances

Ovens, microwaves, toasters, barbecue cookers, refrigerators, dishwashers, clothes washers and clothes dryers still last about 20 years. The price of these appliances hasn’t changed much over the past few years.

Sub Zero refrigerators can last indefinitely, but the cost of a new one has tripled from $3400 in 1990 to $10,000 in 2016. We have been able to service our own Sub Zero and got parts shipped free. Service costs were reasonable when we needed new gaskets installed. But I expect replacement parts and installation will be high when we eventually need a new motor or cooling unit.

Norb Leahy, Dunwoody GA Tea Party Leader