A roofing estimate is a good way to get a feel for what you can expect from a roofer and how much you will pay. A roofing estimate gives you a general overview of the services you could expect and the cost.
You will make smarter decisions if you know what to include in the estimate.
Roofing companies that are bidding on a roof replacement should answer all your questions and address concerns. To choose the best contractor, you should evaluate how well the contractor explains the estimate before the work begins – and not after.
Here is a guide to help you understand the details of roofing estimates. You should expect to see these basic elements in a roofing contractor’s quote.
THE BASICS OF A ROOFING ESTIMATE
You should at least be able to find the following details in your roofing estimate:
- Name of the Company
- Contact information for companies
- Website of the company (if applicable).
- Information on insurance and licensing
- Job Description and Scope of Work
- Materials Used
- Cost of the project at its lowest level
- Warranty Information
- Roofing estimate provisions
A COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF THE WORK
The estimate should include a description of the work to be done so you can understand what will be done. Descriptions may include:
- All roofing materials listed
- Types and thicknesses of roofing underlayment
- The location of the flashing
- Size of nails and fasteners
- Sealants used to waterproof a building
- Changes in ventilation
- Specified manufacturer products
An experienced roofer will specify in great detail what type of roofing decking, shingles and flashings, underlayment and ventilation will be used. The estimate should include this information in great detail.
It should, for example, specify the thickness of the underlayment and the location of flashings, as well as the type of sealant to be used in areas where waterproofing is required (nail holes, flashings, etc.). It should also specify the size of fasteners, nails, and flashings to be used.
The materials section should include the brands of products that your contractor will be using for the roofing project.
Costs and Payment Schedules
Roof estimates should include all costs, including labor, materials, permits, and clean up or removal of debris. All costs should be included in the total price of the project. There shouldn’t be any surprises, hidden charges, or sudden changes.
Roofing contractors in Myrtle Beach may need to change products based on the availability of certain materials (which could affect the price of the material) or adjust their cost if an unexpected task is required, such as replacing or repairing a roof system.
Payment terms are structured by each roofing company. They can range from month-to-month financing up until full payment at completion. Contractors may require up to 30% in advance and another 30% at a certain benchmark. The remainder is due when the work is completed.
Your roof estimate should include clear and concise payment terms and costs so you know what to expect.
MANUFACTURER WARRANTIES AND WORKMANSHIP GUARANTEES
MANUFACTURER GUARANTEE
A manufacturer’s warranty backs all the roofing materials that the contractor installed. In their warranties, all roofing manufacturers ensure quality workmanship, durability and performance. The warranty only covers the material and not the installation.
WORKMANSHIP GUARANTEE
The workmanship warranty will cover the labor, and ensure that the roof installation is up to code and meets all industry standards and job specifications. The warranty may also cover the installation of materials according to manufacturer specifications.
WARRANTY LENGTH
Contractors vary in their warranty length. These warranties can range between 2 and 25 years. Many homeowners will compare warranties, and may even choose a contractor based on the warranty length.
LICENSES AND INSURANCE
Contractors of roofing companies are required to have certifications and licenses that meet all state requirements. The insurance protects the employees and compensates for any damage to your property.
This information will be provided by a reputable contractor with your roof replacement estimate, or on request. It is important that homeowners request the credentials of the roofing contractor so they can be held legally responsible if the contractor fails to install the roof in accordance with the job specifications, or the local or state building code. The same applies to hiring a roof maintenance or inspection company.
QUESTIONS TO ANSWER ROOFING CONTRACTORS
Even though most estimates are thorough, they may not include all of the details. Even if your contractor has explained the details of the job in detail on paper, you still may have important questions. You may ask yourself the following questions.
- What is the manufacturer or reputation of the product?
- What are the provisions for unexpected job changes and add-ons?
- Is there a lien released that protects the home owner if the contractor does not pay all the associated entities (employees and subcontractors as well as material suppliers)?
Call MB Roofing Pros now if you’re looking for a reliable roofing contractor in Myrtle Beach.
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MB Roofing Pros
Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
843-492-0778
http://roofing-myrtlebeach.com/
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