When you get a roof estimate – the amount that your roofing company quotes you to either repair or replace your roof – you’ll most likely want to know how the inspector arrived at that number. It’s important that you know that proposals definitely differ between contractors. So, what goes into an estimate for a roof replacement or repair?
Elements Covered in a Free Roof Estimate
One thing’s for sure: When you ask a professional roofing contractor (one with a good reputation in the community) for a quote, the contractor should be able to break it down for you to explain the costs of materials and labor. This is exceptionally important, because a roof – whether you’re having it repaired or replaced – is a big investment that most homeowners have to make at least a couple of times.
A good roof estimate includes all the information you need, but if you don’t see it, feel free to ask. You need to work with a contractor who’s willing to go into the details with you. Some of the factors that go into an estimate for a roof replacement or repair include:
- Project details
- Cost of materials
- Cost of labor
- Cost for permits
- Cost of cleanup and removal of debris
- Information on the type of materials the contractor recommends or that you’ve chosen
- The types of product warranties that come with your materials
- Information on workmanship warranties
Pro Tip: If a contractor wants to give you a quote without “crunching numbers,” that’s not the right contractor for you. Likewise, if someone gives you a verbal quote without writing anything down, choose another roofing company.
Project Details
Your contractor should outline the project’s details for you, including when the project will start and end, payment terms and who’s responsible for what. You need to get that contractor’s estimate for a roof replacement or repair in writing – that way, you’ll know exactly what to expect from the project.
Cost of Materials, Labor and Permits
Your materials and the contractors’ labor should be listed and estimated in your paperwork. The cost of the permits (every locality is different) should be in your estimate for a roof replacement or repair, too.
Cost of Cleanup and Removal of Debris
Cleanup and debris removal, which is especially important for large roof repairs and complete roof replacements, has to be included in your new roof estimate. That way, you’ll know the complete cost of every phase of the project.
Material Information
You and your contractor will talk about the materials you want to use, whether you’ve chosen synthetic slate, asphalt shingles or other materials, as well as underlayment, flashing and ventilation components. That way, your roofer can give you an accurate cost based on how much you need – and it’ll all be listed in your estimate for a roof replacement or repair.
Warranty Information
If the products you’ve chosen come with warranties, your contractor can give you all the information you need. Workmanship warranties and guarantees are important, as well. When a good contractor provides you with a free roof estimate, he or she will be able to put all this information on paper.
What Many People See On an Estimate for a Roof Replacement or Repair
Often, contractors submit bids with very little detail. Sometimes you’ll only see the total cost without the price of materials or labor on your estimate for a roof replacement.
While proposals can differ quite a bit between contractors, your estimate for a roof replacement or repair should tell you everything you need to know. If you’re not clear on what figures made up the estimate you received, you can ask the contractor to provide more detail.
However, if the contractor isn’t willing to do so – or if he or she provides numbers that don’t make sense to you, it’s time to get a different estimate for a roof replacement; choose someone who understands your concerns and who will give you the details you need to make an informed decision.
Request a Free, No Obligation Roof Inspection
When Should You Get an Estimate for a Roof Replacement?
As soon as you notice issues with your roof, it’s a good idea to call a professional for help. You may not need to get an estimate for roof replacement – you might just need repairs – but it’s better to err on the side of caution by bringing in a team of local roofing experts.
It’s especially important that you talk to a professional if you see any leaks inside your attic or worse, inside the living areas of your home. Water leaks never get better on their own; they only become worse with time. Even a small leak can quickly spiral out of control and cause tremendous amounts of damage. If you address a leak as soon as you discover it, there’s a good chance that the damage isn’t too severe – and you may be able to save a lot of money by having it repaired.
Do You Need an Estimate for a Roof Replacement or Repair?
When your roof isn’t doing its job of protecting your home, it’s time for a free roof estimate. Call us at (972) 521-4763 today. We’ll work around your busy schedule and set up a time for a professional inspector to check out your roof’s issues, and we’ll provide you with a roof estimate that helps you make the best possible decision.
