Why are my roofing quotes different?
If you’re in the market for a new roof, you may be surprised at how much prices can vary from one contractor to the next. Sometimes, the quotes can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars apart! So, why are your roofing quotes so different? And more importantly, which one should you choose? This blog post will discuss the factors that go into pricing a new roof and provide tips on getting a good quality roof without breaking the bank.
What factors go into my roof replacement quote?
The main factors that make up the cost of your roof are material and labor. And the cost of both depends on the size and complexity of your roof. To determine this the contractor will use satellite measurements from either a third-party company such as Eagleview or Roofr or by conducting an in-person inspection. The price of materials for your roof will also be based on the type of roofing system you choose. For example, asphalt shingles are the most popular and affordable option, while metal roofs are more durable but come with a higher price tag. Additionally, if you need other related services for your roof beyond a replacement, such as replacing damaged decking, soffit, fascia, or repairing/replacing your chimney, this will impact the final price of your roofing project. And all of this affects the cost of labor, which is typically charged by the square foot.
Even though both roofing companies are quoting the same work, the quotes are vastly different. Why is that?
There are several reasons that the cost of a new roof could vary widely, even if you are getting quotes for the same material and work from different contractors.The first is that one contractor may include the cost of removal and disposal of your old roof in their quote, while the other does not. This is an essential factor to consider. While this can save hundreds to thousands of dollars, pending the size of your roof, this can negatively affect the quality of your roof. Without exposing the roof to the raw substrate there is no way to guarantee that there is no existing water damage. And roofing over water damage can potentially cause more damage to your home and expose your roof to further leaks and rot in the future.
The second reason for a quote discrepancy could be the quality of the materials being used. Some contractors will try to undercut other companies by promising the same shingle, metal, or flat roofing material type or quality. But won’t use the roofing components that go with that particular roofing system and will replace it with lesser quality materials. This can completely void the warranty with the manufacturer, and because those components are not made for that particular roofing system it can even shorten the life of your new roof.
Another reason for a quote discrepancy is the roofing contractor’s overhead, profit, and labor cost. Some companies are large, national corporations with significant marketing budgets and high operating costs, which means they need to charge more to turn a profit. On the other hand, smaller, local businesses may have lower overhead costs and can therefore offer more competitive pricing. In addition, some contractors may choose to outsource their roofing work to subcontractors to save on costs. Although this may lead to a decrease in cost, it also may mean you’ll have an amateurish crew working on your roof who are unfamiliar with your roof type–this could result in errors. And If you want your roofing system to be effective, it’s crucial that it is installed properly.
How can I get a good quality roof without breaking the bank?
When you’re comparing quotes from different contractors, it’s important to remember that the lowest price isn’t always the best deal. In fact, going with the cheapest option could end up costing you more in the long run if the quality of materials and workmanship is poor. To get the most bang for your buck, it’s important to find a balance between price and quality.
If you want to make sure you’re not overpaying for your new roof, keep the following key points in mind:
- Get multiple quotes – Getting multiple bids from different contractors will give you a better idea of how much your roof should cost.
- Get a detailed estimate- This is probably the most important thing you can do. Before excepting an estimate make sure everything is in writing. Your estimate should have the scope of work listed, including the tear-off and disposal of your current roofing system, and a list of all materials by the brand name that will go on your new roof. Your estimate should also include the length of your workmanship warranty (warranty with the contractor) and your material warranty ( warranty with the material manufacturer).
- Do your research- No matter whether you are getting a metal roof, a shingle roof, or a new flat roofing system it is important that you do your own research to make sure you know what components should be included in your estimate and that the materials that will be used are good quality. The more you know about roofing systems, the more likely you will get a quality roof at a fair price.
- Wait until the slow season- The roofing industry is very seasonal, with the busier times being April through September. If you can wait to have your roof replaced during the slower months you are more likely to get a better price as companies are trying to increase their business.
- Let your contractor know what price range you are comfortable with- You do not have to go with a cheap, subpar company just because their estimate is lower. If you find a company that you like but their quote is too high, tell them your budget so they can help determine what roofing system they can provide while staying within your price range.
In the end, the best way to get a quality roof at a fair price is to do your research, know what you want, and be willing to negotiate. With a little effort, you can be sure to find a roofing contractor that will give you the best possible value for your money.
