Are you in need of a roof replacement? Getting estimates from different roofing contractors can be overwhelming. You might find yourself wondering what to expect from a roofing estimate, what’s included, what to look for, and if you’re being taken advantage of. Understanding what’s in your estimate is crucial to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money and a roof that meets your needs.
Elite Exteriors understands the importance of transparency and making sure our customers know exactly what they’re paying for. In this article, we will break down the key elements that should be included in your roofing estimate. By the end of this article, you’ll be well-equipped to sit down with your contractor and confidently go over the proposal.
Table of Contents
– Labor Costs
– Tearing Off Old Roof Layers
– Protecting Your Property
– The Installation Method
– Dealing with Rotten Decking
– Drip Edge
– Roof System Components
– Roof Ventilation
– Pipe Boots and Roof Flashing
– Dump Fees and Clean Up
– Warranties
– Validity of the Estimate
– Your Right to Rescission
– Going Over Your Estimate: Asking the Right Questions
– Conclusion: What to Expect From a Roofing Estimate
Labor Costs
If you’re wondering what to expect from a roofing estimate, just know that every line item in your estimate includes labor costs. It’s important to understand how labor is factored into the overall estimate. For example, the price of the shingles on your proposal includes not only the cost of the materials but also the labor required for installation. Keep in mind that labor costs can vary between contractors, but the material costs should generally remain the same in a specific area.
Tearing Off Old Roof Layers
As far as what to expect from a roofing estimate goes, you should look for how many layers of the old roof the contractor plans to tear off. It’s essential to ensure that all necessary layers are removed to avoid any surprises and additional costs later on. If your contractor only includes one layer in the estimate, but there are actually two layers that need to be torn off, your final cost will be higher than the original estimate. To prevent this, it’s crucial to hire a reputable local contractor who will thoroughly inspect your roof and provide an accurate estimate.
Protecting Your Property
When replacing your roof, protecting your property is of utmost importance. And when wondering what to expect from a roofing estimate, know that the estimate should include a line item list of the measures the contractor will take to protect your property during the project. This includes covering everything in your attic, protecting landscaping and foliage, and even covering swimming pools with fresh tarps. Ensuring that these protective measures are included in the estimate gives you peace of mind knowing that your property will be safeguarded during the roof replacement process.
The Installation Method
Still thinking about what to expect from a roofing estimate? Well, the installation method used for your new roof is another crucial factor to consider. Your estimate should clearly state the installation method, the number of nails used, and how many nails are applied per shingle.
Hand nailing and air gun nailing are the two main methods used for roof installation. Hand nailing is often considered superior as it provides better control and ensures a more secure attachment. If your contractor does not offer the hand nailing method, it’s important to know that your roof will likely be installed using the air nailing method.
Dealing with Rotten Decking
Rotten roof decking is a common issue that may only become apparent once the old roof is torn off. Your estimate should include a line item specifying the cost per sheet to replace any rotten decking that is discovered. Some contractors automatically include the cost of replacing decking in their estimates, while others may charge separately for the materials and labor. It’s important to discuss with your contractor how they will handle rotten decking and clarify any potential additional costs before proceeding with the project.
Drip Edge
A drip edge is an essential component of a properly installed roof. It helps to direct water away from the edges of the roof, preventing water damage. When learning what to expect from a roofing estimate, know that it should clearly state whether a drip edge needs to be installed on the rakes (the slanting edge of a roof at the end wall of the house) and eaves (the lower edge of a roof overhanging beyond the edge of the house).
While there may be instances where a drip edge is not required on the rakes, it is typically necessary on the eaves near the gutters. The estimate should include details such as the color, quantity, and specific locations where the drip edge will be installed.
Roof System Components
What to expect from a roofing estimate? Your roof replacement estimate should provide a detailed line item list of the roofing system components that will be replaced. These components are essential for the longevity and functionality of your new roof. Here are the five main roof components that should be included in your estimate:
- Underlayment: The felt used over the decking to provide additional protection. The estimate should specify the size, type, and manufacturer of the underlayment.
- Ice and Water Shield: A waterproof membrane used to protect valleys on the roof from ice and water damage. The estimate should specify the type of material that will be used.
- Starter Shingles: Asphalt-based shingles used to waterproof the eaves and rakes of the roof. The estimate should include the manufacturer and indicate whether they will be installed on both the rakes and eaves.
- Shingles: The top layer of the roof that is visible to the outside world. The estimate should include details such as the style, color, and manufacturer of the shingles you choose for your roof replacement.
- Ridge Capping: The trim installed at the peak where the two slopes of a roof meet. The estimate should specify the manufacturer and material that will be used for the ridge capping.
It’s important to note that some contractors may try to cut costs by using standard three-tab shingles for ridge capping and starter shingles. If these items are not listed separately in the estimate, it’s a good idea to inquire about the specific manufacturer and ensure that high-quality materials will be used.
Roof Ventilation
Pictured above is a ridge vent with a baffle, installed for proper attic ventilation
Proper roof/attic ventilation is crucial for maintaining a healthy roofing system. So, what to expect from a roofing estimate? Your estimate should include information about the type of ventilation system you choose, as well as the style and quantity of vents that will be installed on your roof.
There are two main types of ventilation systems: active and passive. Active ventilation systems use fans or turbines to pull in air from the outside and push it out from the inside, while passive ventilation relies on natural sources such as wind to move air through the attic. The estimate should also indicate the specific style, color, and number of vents required for your roof.
Pipe Boots and Roof Flashing
Contractor inspects pipe boot during a roof inspection
To prevent leaks around roof pipes, a neoprene boot, also known as a pipe boot, is placed around the base of the penetration. If you’re wanting to know what to expect from a roofing estimate, it should include the number of penetrations and specify the type of boot that will be used. Additionally, the estimate should account for any flashing that your roof may require.
Flashing is a metal component installed where the shingles meet other structures such as walls, chimneys, or in open valleys. Existing flashing may be reusable if it is in good condition, which can help reduce costs. The estimate should specify where new flashing will be installed and indicate the type of metal that will be used.
Dump Fees and Clean Up
At Elite Exteriors, we use a large magnet to sweep the property after a roof replacement to ensure no nails are left behind
During the tear-off process of a roof replacement, a significant amount of debris is generated. Part of what to expect from a roofing estimate includes the labor required for debris removal and the associated costs of disposing of the debris at a landfill. It’s important to ensure that the estimate covers both the labor and the disposal fees.
Additionally, the estimate should account for the labor required to clean up the area after the roof replacement is completed. This includes picking up any nails or roofing debris to ensure that your property is left clean and safe.
Warranties
Warranties are set in place to protect your new roof investment
When investing in a roof replacement, it’s essential to understand the warranties that come with your new roof. The type of warranties you will receive is part of what to expect from a roofing estimate. This includes the warranty on the materials used for your roof. Some manufacturers offer enhanced warranties when the new roof is registered with them, which can provide added peace of mind.
Additionally, the estimate should specify the length of the workmanship warranty offered by the contractor. Workmanship warranties can vary between contractors, so it’s important to understand the coverage and duration of the warranty being offered.
Validity of the Estimate
Contractor prepares for a roof inspection to provide the homeowner with a roofing estimate
Once you receive an estimate from a contractor, it’s important to note the validity period of the offer. Fluctuations in roofing material prices may impact the final cost of the project, so most estimates are valid for a specific period, typically around 90 days. If you decide to proceed with the project after the validity period has expired, the estimate will need to be updated to reflect the current prices of materials. It’s essential to have clarity on the validity period to ensure timely decision-making and accurate cost estimates.
Your Right to Rescission
In your estimate, there should be a right to rescission clause that allows you to back out of the contract within a specific timeframe. Typically, this right extends for three days after signing the contract. This provision ensures that you have the opportunity to reconsider your decision if you feel rushed or if new information arises that may impact your choice of contractor. It’s essential to carefully review the terms and conditions of your estimate, as some contractors may include clauses that require payment of a certain percentage of the contract amount if you try to back out after the right to rescission period has expired.
Going Over Your Estimate: Asking the Right Questions
Homeowners review their estimate with a roofing company representative
The most critical part of the estimate process is sitting down with your contractor to go over the proposal in detail. It’s essential to ask the right questions and ensure that you fully understand each line item in the estimate. A reputable contractor will be happy to explain and clarify any aspects of the proposal that may be unclear. It’s crucial to have an open and transparent conversation to ensure that both parties are on the same page. Hiring the right contractor is essential to ensure a smooth and successful roof replacement project.
Conclusion: What to Expect From a Roofing Estimate
Getting a roof replacement can be a significant investment, and it’s important to know what to expect from a roofing estimate. By understanding the key elements that should be included in your estimate, you can make an informed decision and ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money. From labor costs and tearing off old roof layers to protecting your property and warranties, each aspect plays a crucial role in the overall estimate. By going over the proposal with your contractor and asking the right questions, you can establish clear expectations and ensure a successful roof replacement project.
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Elite Exteriors truly values their work, and you’re home. This is just one of the many reasons why Elite Exteriors is the Southeast’s premier resource for unparalleled service, craftsmanship and quality. And it’s all backed by an unprecedented lifetime labor and materials warranty! Not only that, we offer a NO-COST initial consultation and inspection. Are you ready to see what Elite Exteriors can do for you and your home? Give us a call today at 470-350-3024, or click here to fill out an online form.