To get a reasonable price when replacing your roof, you must understand how roofers create their estimates. This will 1) help you choose the best materials for your job, and 2) you’ll be prepared to compare roofing quotes with confidence.
Unfortunately, many overlook the details in a roofing estimate, paying more than expected and getting lower quality. Why? Here are some common reasons people miss out on this crucial knowledge:
- Lack of Industry Knowledge: Most people don’t know much about roofing until they need it, so understanding roofing estimates feels overwhelming.
- Ignoring Market Trends: Seasonal labor costs and material prices fluctuate.
- Focusing on Price Only: Some need to consider the details before going straight to the lowest price.
Let’s break down the main factors step-by-step so you can make the best choice for your roof.
Step 1: Assess Your Roof Size and Pitch
The first thing to understand is that the size and pitch of your roof are two significant elements that directly influence your estimate. Why? Larger roofs require more shingles and other supplies, which, along with increased labor and time, raises the cost. Meanwhile, the pitch (steepness) affects safety and accessibility; a steeper roof is more challenging to work on and may need special equipment or more labor.
Simply put, the larger and steeper your roof, the more you’ll pay. For example:
- A large, flat roof is typically more accessible and cheaper to install than a similarly sized steep roof.
- A steep, multi-level roof with peaks and valleys will increase labor time and require additional safety equipment.
What to do: Measure your roof size, or better yet, ask a contractor to help with accurate measurements and a description of the pitch. Make sure they explain how these factors affect the cost.
Step 2: Consider Your Choice of Roofing Material and Quality
One of the most common mistakes is underestimating how much roofing materials can vary in cost and quality. Many choose the least expensive option (usually asphalt shingles) and must consider how material choice affects longevity and maintenance. Premium materials like metal, tile, or slate last longer and may be more durable. Still, they also come with a higher price tag.
Cheaper materials can save you money now but can cost more for repairs or replacements. Asphalt is affordable and versatile but won’t last as long as tile or metal roofing. On the other hand, tile and slate roofs can last decades longer but come with a higher upfront cost.
What to do: Research the types of roofing materials available, considering your budget and how long you plan to stay in your home. Ask your contractor for a breakdown of each material’s pros and cons, and factor those into your budget.
Step 3: Evaluate the Extent of Damage or Complexity of the Job
Where most people go wrong in this step is assuming that their roof replacement is “typical.” But every roof is different.
A roof damaged by a hurricane will end up drastically different from a roof impacted by years of 110-degree summer days.
From house to house, you’ll see varying numbers of skylights, vents, chimneys, dormers, etc. Variations like these also cause pricing differences.
What to do: You can always guess at the complexity, but it’s usually best to ask a roofer to look at the condition and complexity of your roof. Ask for specifics about additional work needed and roof features affecting the estimate.
Step 4: Account for Location and Additional Considerations
Ultimately, where you live can also affect roofing costs. Roofing labor is more expensive in some areas due to high demand, while in rural areas, it involves additional transportation fees. Accessibility matters, too; if your home is surrounded by trees or challenging to reach, you may see extra costs for setup and cleanup Plus, seasonal labor rates and market trends can cause materials to vary in price throughout the year.
What to do: Ask your contractor how location and accessibility will impact the estimate. If you’re not in a hurry, ask what time of year is slowest for them (and likely cheaper for you).
Summary
By considering your roof’s size, pitch, materials, and location, you’ll be able to ballpark costs, make a decision that fits your budget, and avoid last-minute surprises. With better information, you can select the best roofer to replace your roof to protect your home.