What to Expect When Getting a Roof Estimate

Obtaining an estimate from a qualified contractor is the best way to figure out how much your roofing project will cost. But, more importantly, what do you expect to gain from a roofing estimate? Roofing estimates will range technically depending on the kind, shape, and quality of the roof. There are several companies that provide roofing sheets, but the majority of them have poor roofing estimating techniques.

Every roofing estimate must include a few key aspects. Local residential roofing contractor STARR Roofing & Gutters takes an in-depth look at the details of a well-written estimate.

Full Description of Work

The roofing estimate should include a detailed description of the work to be done. All roofing materials to be utilized, such as the type of tiles or shingles, flashing locations, type and thickness of underlayment, nail and fastener sizes, and type of waterproofing sealant, should be stated and described in the document. Even the names of the roofing products should be written down if possible. It must also specify whether the roofing contractor will remove the old roofing material and underlayment.

Company Contact Information

The roofing company’s contact information should be included in the estimate, including the company name, physical address, phone number, and email address. When you have questions concerning the estimate or the roofing project, these details will come in handy. Take it as a red flag and move on to the next roofer if the contractor you’re thinking about hiring  can’t supply basic information about their business.

Project Timeline

Some roofing projects can be completed in a matter of days, while others might take months. Minor roof repairs can often be completed in a single day, which can save you money. However, larger tasks, such as total roof replacement, may take longer. When you get a residential roofing estimate from a prospective roofer, it should provide details of how long it will take to complete your project. It’s crucial to remember, however, that this schedule is only an estimate, and the project could take longer or shorter than expected depending on circumstances that may happen along the way.

Breakdown of Costs

The breakdown of the estimated project costs will be the most prominent feature of the estimate you’ll receive from potential roofing contractors. All supplies, roof removal, debris removal, labor, and, if necessary, equipment rental will be included in these charges. The estimate should break down each and every expense so that you can see exactly where your money is going. Before signing the contract, make sure you ask about any concerns you have about the charges. Keep in mind that accepting the lowest bid isn’t always the best option. Other crucial variables to examine are the roofing company’s local reputation, years of expertise, certifications, and more.

Warranties and Guarantees of Work

Each manufacturer’s warranty and material guarantee should have its own section in the estimate. In general, limited lifetime warranties protect against material defects for the first few years of a new roof’s life before they become prorated. A labor or workmanship warranty covers roofing inspections and installation errors. This warranty usually lasts a year after the replacement.

If you sell your home, the estimate should mention whether the warranty is transferable to the new owner. Signing over the roofing warranties and craftsmanship assurances is a significant selling point for many. Read the fine print to learn about your roof replacement company’s warranties and promises.

Payment Terms and Schedules

A full explanation of the parties involved and their duties for specific areas of the roof should be included in a well-written roofing estimate. If certain aspects of the roofing project will be outsourced to other contractors, the estimate must include information about these, including their responsibilities. 

Additionally, information about the roofing inspections, upfront payment, total deposit, and mode of payment and time should be mentioned in more detail. Ideally, the roof replacement contract will include a clause allowing the customer to defer final payment until the service is done to their satisfaction.

Homeowner’s Right to Cancel

According to the law, homeowners who engage in contracts with roofing contractors have the right to cancel the contract within three business days of signing it, without penalty or obligation. However, before attempting to get out of a contract, you must read it thoroughly. Some contractors may include a condition that makes you liable for 10% of the contract’s total value if you cancel after the three-day cooling-off period.

Insurance and Licensing Information

Choose an asphalt shingle and metal roofing contractor who is completely licensed and carries insurance, particularly general liability insurance and workers’ compensation. A lien release should also be included and prioritized since it protects you from liability if the roofer fails to pay the subcontractors or companies that will provide the materials for your roof. Simply take a step back and do not sign a contract with a roofer who cannot or does not want to offer information regarding their license and insurance.

Going Over Your Roof Estimate

Going over your roof replacement estimate with your contractor is the most critical part of the process. They should sit down with you and go over each and every item in your proposal line by line. Remember that the estimate must be as detailed as possible so that you understand why it is the cost of your roof replacement. When meeting with a potential roofing contractor, it’s critical to ask the correct questions.

Make sure you hire the right metal roofing contractor so you can have an overall positive experience and ensure the success of your project. They must be licensed, bonded and insured and are certified by the top industry brands.

STARR Roofing & Gutters has been providing the best roofing services to the citizens of Texas Hill Country for over 20 years. Our goal is to be completely open and honest with you about the work we conduct on your home or company. We’ll help you make the best decisions so that the money you spend on a new roof pays off handsomely. Contact us today for a free consultation and quote. Call us at (512) 736-6539 or fill out the online form to get started.