One of the most crucial components of any roof repair or replacement project is the initial roofing estimate. While many homeowners spend most of their time comparing prices, a roofing estimate should offer much more info than simply the bottom dollar. A detailed roofing estimate allows homeowners to know exactly what work will be done, what products will be used, and what they should expect from beginning to end. So what should be included in a roofing estimate?
When it comes to roofing, not all estimates are created equal. Some contractors go the extra mile and provide a detailed explanation of the project, while others give you a flat price with no info on materials, labor, warranties, or anything else you’ll need to know. By learning what should be included in a professional roofing estimate, homeowners can avoid confusion when comparing contractors and eliminate expensive surprises down the road.
What to Expect From Your Roofing Estimate
Roof replacement isn’t something you do every day, so when the time comes, you deserve to have all of your questions answered before signing on the dotted line. A detailed roofing estimate not only benefits you, but it also protects the contractor from paying for things you decide you do not want.
If your contractor fails to include crucial information in your roofing estimate, he or she could run into some big problems. For instance, you may think certain repairs are included in the quote when they really will be extra. When the bill comes, you realize your new roof cost twice as much as you expected. Not only does this create an issue with you having to pay for unexpected costs, but it also makes it nearly impossible to compare apples-to-apples across different contractors.
Your roofing estimate should include all costs associated with installing your new roofing system. Additionally, it should explain how your roof will be installed, and what products will be included. Contractors who take the time to provide their customers with detailed roofing estimates often apply that same level of professionalism and communication throughout the roof installation process.
Roofing Materials
As mentioned above, one of the most important aspects of your roof replacement is the roofing materials. You should know exactly what products will be installed on your roof.
At minimum, your roofing estimate should list:
- Type and brand of shingles
- Underlayment
- Flashing
- Venting
- Ridge caps and starter shingles
Remember, not all shingles are created equal. Some are more durable than others, and offer different warranty lengths. When comparing roof estimates, ensure you are comparing materials as well.
Your roofing contractor should also mention if they plan to remove your old materials. Many contractors will leave your old shingles in place and install new roofing over the top. This is called an overlay, and while not always illegal, we typically recommend a complete tear-off.
Labor and Installation
One cost you’ll always find on a roofing estimate is labor. For obvious reasons, labor is a significant portion of any roofing contract.
If your roofing contractor doesn’t explain what he will be doing on your roof, how can you be sure he even knows what he’s doing? Don’t worry, asking questions is not weird. In fact, it shows that you care about getting the job done right.
The estimate should include information about how the roof will be installed, including tear-off, shingle installation, flashing replacement, and cleanup. If your contractor plans to use subs rather than his own employees to complete the job, that should be mentioned as well.
Roofing is far more than just throwing shingles on a roof. If the contractor does not mention how they will ensure proper roof ventilation, integrate flashing, or make your roof waterproof, you may want to reconsider working with them. We frequently talk about installation techniques on our blog, so be sure to check out those posts for more information.
Cleaning up after a roof installation is also something to consider when weighing up roofing contractors. While most homeowners focus on roofing materials when hiring a contractor, very few consider how the contractor will protect their landscaping, siding, windows, gutters, and driveway from damage.
Decking Repairs
The roof decking is the actual wood surface your roofing material is installed on. As mentioned before, not every problem can be seen before the old roofing materials are removed.
A thorough roofing estimate should outline how unexpected roof decking repairs are handled. Some roofing companies will provide you with a price per sheet that needs to be replaced. Others will explain under what circumstances they would need to repair your roof decking.
It’s important to note that if damage is found, the project could become more expensive. However, if your contractor mentions this in your estimate, they are most likely not trying to trick you.
Old roofs are particularly susceptible to roof decking problems. Roof leaks, ventilation issues, and excess moisture can damage your roof’s skeleton if left untreated for too long.
Replacing Flashing and Venting
Roof leaks typically occur around a home’s flashing and ventilation systems. If your roofing estimate doesn’t mention repairing or replacing these items, ask!
Roof flashing is installed to protect several areas of the roof. Chimneys, skylights, roof vents, valleys, and roof transitions are just some of the areas that need flashing to prevent leaks. Improperly installed flashing is one of the leading causes of roof leaks.
Venting is another important part of your roofing system. Your roof’s venting affects the overall lifespan of your roof, the temperature in your attic, and even your energy bills. Just like a cracked window on a cold day lets heat escape, poor ventilation traps heat and moisture in your attic.
Your roofing contractor should mention whether they will address your roof’s ventilation as part of the roofing estimate.
Warranties
Last but certainly not least, your roofing estimate should clearly outline your warranty information. Like most homeowners, you may be a bit confused about warranties. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered.
Roof warranty typically consists of two parts:
- The manufacturer’s warranty. This covers the roofing materials installed on your home.
- Workmanship warranty. This covers the labor involved with installing your new roof.
Who provides the warranty? How long is the warranty? What voids the warranty? These are all questions your contractor should be able to answer for you. Some roofing systems even offer enhanced manufacturer warranties when installed by certified contractors.
If your contractor is confident in their work, they shouldn’t hesitate to provide you with a substantial labor warranty.
Other Items to Consider
In addition to everything mentioned above, your roofing estimate should include information on how the contractor will clean up after the installation is complete. Will they pick up debris? What about discarded materials? These questions should be answered in your estimate.
Your roofing contractor should also provide you with an estimated time of completion. Again, no one can control Mother Nature, but knowing how long your roof should take is important.
When you receive your roofing estimate, you should also be told when the contractor expects payment. How much is the deposit? Will they accept progress payments? When do they need the final payment? Never agree to have work done on your roof if the contractor requests a strange upfront payment.
Conclusion
Now that you know what should be included in a roofing estimate, you will be able to weed through the homeowners who simply want to “throw shingles on your roof.” A quality roofing estimate includes information on:
- Products
- Labor
- Flashing Replacement
- Ventilation
- Decking Repairs
- Warranty Information
- Cleanup
- Timeline
- Payment Info
While price will always be a significant factor when hiring a contractor, take note of the details in each estimate. The more thorough your roofing estimate, the easier it will be to value-engineer your project rather than just choosing the lowest bidder.
Ready to get started on your next roofing project? Contact Atlas Roofing & Siding. One of our product specialists would be more than happy to provide you with a free roof estimate and professional advice on how to best protect your home.
