After Getting a Roofing Estimate

 

Roof Pricing and Contracts

After receiving bids from roofing contractors, you’ll need to study the estimates, compare prices, and hire the best roofer. Before signing on the dotted line, keep an eye out for things that should be included in the roofing estimate and research about pricing. This article will help you compare prices and make sure you’re getting your money’s worth when hiring a roofing contractor.

The following aspects of the roofing estimate can affect the price of the project. Some contractors charge more than others for materials and services, so it’s good to have a benchmark in mind when reviewing pricing.

Ask the roofer if the entire roof system is included in the price or if he is only quoting for replacement of the shingles. If you notice a contractor’s price is much lower than the other bids, it may be because he or she is only quoting the shingles, not the entire roof system. TruBlue Roofing and Remodeling quotes the cost of the entire project including every aspect of the job, not just the shingles.

 

The estimate must include:

• Removing the old roof
• Dump fees
• Underlayment
• New shingles
• Chimney work
• Flashing
• Counter flashing
• Kick-out flashing
• Flapper, ridge, or box vents
• Lead pipe jacks
• Water barrier
• Gutters

 

Question to ask the roofer before signing:

• Are you licensed?
• Are you insured?
• Does the estimate quote include tax?
• Is there a warranty? If so, what does it cover?
• What is the quality of the materials? Do I get to keep the extra shingles?
• May I see your references?
• How long has your company been in business?

 

Contracts and Pricing

Most roofing contractors have straightforward contracts for roofing projects; however, make sure you read the fine print. TruBlue Roofing and Remodeling explains every detail of the roofing contract, so make sure whichever roofer you choose does the same. A roofing contract is one of the most expensive updates for your home, so you’ll want to make sure you understand what you’re paying for when you sign on the dotted line. You’ll want to talk with the roofing company about the style and color of shingles as well as additional work like skylight installation or gutters.

 

 

Here are four things to consider before signing a roofing contract:

#1: What is the scope of work? 

You’ll want to know exactly what work will be performed and what materials will be used as well as the labor needed to complete the job. Make sure the contract spells out all that is needed for the project including materials, labor, warranty, and description of the project. Ask if the work stated in the contract meets the manufacturer’s warranty and installation requirements. This will include ventilation and other things if applicable.

 

 

#2: How long will the job take and when will it begin?

Roofing projects generally begin around two weeks after signing the contract. However, roofing start times can vary, so this is a good question to ask the roofing company. The time of year and backlog often affects this. 

Once the roofing project begins, there should not be any interruptions except for extreme weather situations. You’ll want to ask the roofer how likely it is that an interruption will take place other than weather-related delays. No one wants to have a flashy blue tarp on their roof for weeks on end, not to mention the lack of insulation during that time.

 

 

#3: What kind of materials (and brands) will be used?

Make sure that ALL materials and labor are included in the contract’s job scope. This should include ventilation, underlayments, and other products required for a roofing job. Also, ask about cleanup and disposal of the old roofing materials as well as permit acquisition fees. Nobody likes “surprise” fees at the end of a roofing job. Also, you’ll want to make sure that the brand names of the materials are listed and referenced in the manufacturer warranties.

 

 

#4: What is the deposit and payment schedule?

Before signing, it’s a good idea to ask about the payment schedule and required deposit. Never pay the total job amount upfront. Any roofer that asks you to do so, is suspect and could possibly be unscrupulous. Most roofing companies charge an initial deposit of up to one third (⅓) of the total, then a second payment occurs when the materials are delivered. The final payment is required upon job completion. 

 

 

The scope and type of materials will determine the price ranges. When reviewing a contract, make sure that it reflects what you and the contractor discussed.

TruBlue Roofing and Remodeling has many years of experience repairing and replacing roofs in central and coastal North Carolina. We service mostly the Raleigh-Durham Metro areas and coastal NC. Please call us for a free estimate at (919) 589-7290.