You live in the same neighborhood, and your homes share the same basic attributes. Therefore, you were surprised to find out that your neighbor’s new roof estimate is considerably less than the one sitting on your kitchen table. You may be tempted to think that your roofing contractor is simply overcharging you. That may be the case, of course, but before you make an angry phone call, you may want to consider the other factors involved in your price quote.
The fact is, there are several components of the roof estimate which may not be comparable from quote to quote, or company to company. Here are some tips to help you put the two estimates on an even playing field, in order to decide the best value for your Venice home.
Comparing One Roof Estimate to Another
- Quality of Materials: All other things being equal, the quality of the roofing materials utilized in a roofing project can make a significant budgetary difference. You can expect a new roof to last between 20 and 50 years. Like any consumer good, your choices include both low and high end products. If you chose better quality shingles or tiles than your neighbor, it may account for the difference in your roof estimate total.
- Structural Differences: Perhaps one roof has skylights with flashing which need to be worked around; or maybe there is some structural damage on your roof which is necessary to fix before the roofing materials can be affixed.
From sagging attic framing to rotting fascia, the details of the structural integrity of each roof must be taken into account when a total roof job is proposed. One job may simply reflect more required hours, materials, and cost in order for the roof to be installed safely and professionally.
- Special Requests: Many Florida homeowners opt to install a “cool roof” to help keep air conditioning costs down. You may choose to add a sealant which will prolong the life of your roof, or to use a more expensive underlayment to better protect against water intrusion. From the number of nails used to secure the shingle, to the coatings utilized to extend the life of the material, your roof estimate will take them all into account.
- Your Required Timeframe: If you wait until your roof is leaking and it must be fixed immediately, you may find yourself with a heftier roof estimate. “Rush jobs” generally require a contractor to rearrange schedules, hire additional teams, or pay more to expedite shipping of required materials. These will all be seen in your price estimate. However, if you can wait and fit into their normal schedule and business model, you are likely to see a lower price.
Of course, it is always possible that one roofing company is more expensive than another – even if all things seem to be equal. It is important to find out why. In reality, the more expensive company may be the best choice, based upon their experience and professionalism.
Fly-by-night organizations may not have the same overhead costs, such as proper licensing and insurance coverage. Their teams may not be as experienced, and their work may not be as meticulous. It is always important to research a roofing company‘s reputation in the community, to ensure that you are hiring a company who will do the job right the first time, while protecting your property and their workers.
If you have any questions as to why your roof estimate may be more than you expected, give [company_name] a call. We are happy to explain all of the components of your roof quote, as well as to work with you if necessary to determine how to best fit your new roof within your budget.
