If you want to replace your roof, you should get a comprehensive quote that contains an in-depth overview of the project. Below are some of the things to expect in the quote.
Contractor Identification and Contact
A good estimate should contain identification and contact information of the roofing company. Roofing contractors typically include their company name, physical address, email address, phone number, and website. You can use the information to research the company (for example, in the Better Business Bureau) or to contact them for further information.
Date
The date quoted on the estimate is significant because roofing prices change over time. The cost of materials, labor costs, taxes, can all change with time. Thus, roof replacement quotes are typically valid for specific periods. For example, a contractor may tell you that their estimate is valid for two months. The date on the quote determines the starting point for the two months.
Scope of the Job
The roofing estimate should also describe the scope of the job. For example, if you want a quote for a replacement roof, the estimate should detail whether the contractor will also:
- Remove the existing roof
- Clear the debris
- Remove other structures on the roof
That way, you know what you have to pay for if you give the contractor the job.
Type of Materials
The quote should also detail the type of materials it includes. The cost of roofing materials varies by:
- Manufacturer
- Color
- Quality
- Type
For example, according to
modernize.com, 3-tab asphalt shingles are relatively cheaper than architectural shingles. Thus, if you asked for an estimate of a new shingle roof, the contractor should specify the type of asphalt in its quote.
Timeline
Roof replacement can take anywhere from one day to a couple of weeks. The timeline depends on various factors, such as:
- The roof's size
- The roof's design
- The prevailing weather
- The roofing material
- Any existing damage
The contractor should give an approximation of the project's timeline in the quote. However, don't forget that the timeline is subject to change due to unexpected changes, such as the weather.
Cost
For most people, the cost is the most significant part of a roof estimate. A good quote should include not only the overall cost but also the itemized cost of the project. Thus, you should expect to see:
- Material costs
- Labor costs
- Clean up costs
- Transport costs
The cost will depend on various factors, such as:
- Scope of the job
- Roofing material
- Season
- Roofing style
- Roofing material
However, the final cost might slightly differ with the estimated cost. For example, the contractor might unearth unexpected damage when they tear off the old roof. Most contractors allow for a slight change in costs in their estimates.
Insurance and License
A roofing contractor should have a contractor's license and relevant insurance. The license gives the contractor the legal right to operate in the state. The insurance protects you in case the roofing project causes damage or injury to a third party. For example, the contractor's insurance will come to the rescue in case the roofing project causes injury or damage to:
- A third party
- A roofer
- Your home
The contractor will show their license and insurance on the quote. You might have to shoulder such risks if you hire a contractor without insurance coverage.
Warranty
Lastly, the estimate should also contain warranty information. Specifically, you should expect to see labor and material warranty. The material warranty comes from the manufacturer of the roofing materials. The labor warranty comes from the contractor who actually installs the roof.
Whittle's Roofing Co., Inc., has been active in the roofing industry since 1972.
Contact us
about your roofing project, be it a repair, replacement, or maintenance, and we will be glad to give you a solution at a reasonable price.
