Wondering what your roof estimate should include for a roofing project in Kitchener-Waterloo? Get answers to commonly asked roofing estimate questions from a professional roofing contractor in Kitchener-Waterloo. We’ll start with what a basic residential roofing estimate should include and then move on to frequently asked questions. Keep reading to learn more.
What Should My Roof Estimate Include in Kitchener-Waterloo?
When you request a roof estimate, you should receive an itemized list of any work or materials that will be included in the cost of your project. These are the roofing costs you should expect to see:
- Information About Your Current Roof: Outside the costs of the new roof, the estimate should include information on the state of your current roof. This information dictates what repairs are necessary based on the state of your current roof and the problems we’ve identified in it. It will also include the roof size and pitch.
- Material Costs: One of the most costly aspects of your project is the materials. Usually, the higher the quality of the material, the more durable and long-lasting it is. The quote should be specific about what materials are being used and why. Here are the roofing materials typically included in your estimate:
- Shingles, Starter Shingles, Ridge-Cap Shingles.
- Flashing.
- Roofing Nails, Fasteners, and Sealant/Adhesives.
- Ice and Water Shield.
- Underlayment.
- Venting.
- Stacks.
- Metal Valley.
- Tools needed for installation may be included.
- Labour Costs: This involves the cost of the roofing contractor’s team and the time spent on your project, usually given as a flat rate or hourly fee. Price will vary based on the team’s skill and experience, as well as how long the project takes. You will be charged for:
- The removal of shingles and garbage disposal for the old roofing.
- The roofing installation and repair.
- The cleanup after the job has been completed.
- Permits if applicable (building permits, zoning permits.etc)
- Warranties: Any warranties that apply to you should be included, with information about how each warranty works, any exclusions or limitations, how to register for the warranty, and how/if it can be transferred between homeowners. For our team at Quality Care Roofing, we have our own warranty as well as GAF-certified warranties that automatically apply to various projects. Our quotes would provide a brief explanation of how the GAF warranty works.
Frequently Asked Questions about Roofing Estimates in Kitchener-Waterloo: Answered by Roofing Contractors
I don’t understand some of the costs listed in my quote, what should I do?
Any reputable roofing contractor will be more than happy to talk you through the quote/estimate and explain why they determined the costs were necessary. Don’t be afraid to ask about things you don’t understand or express any concerns you have.
If the roofing contractor is hesitant to explain the quote or fails to explain it thoroughly, you’re allowed to walk away and explore other options.
Does a typical roofing quote include plywood for under the shingles?
Yes, if the plywood under your shingles needs to be replaced, new plywood will be applied to your material costs. Quality Care Roofing will provide you with two plywood sheets for free. Cost varies based on the quality and thickness of the plywood. If your roof’s plywood is in good shape, no additional costs will apply.
I received my roofing quote but it isn’t in an itemized list, can I ask for one?
Yes, you should definitely ask for the quote to be broken down into an itemized list if it isn’t already. Receiving a quote that isn’t itemized is not the norm in the roofing industry, it can either be a sign of an inexperienced contractor or a contractor that is trying to hide the cost details from you. You should always verify why the project costs as much as it does before signing the contract.
The quote I received is over my budget, can I negotiate costs?
Yes, you can try to negotiate costs with the roofing contractor you’re working with, but there’s no guarantee that they will actually lower the cost. Otherwise, your contractor may help lower the overall cost by recommending cheaper materials.
At Quality Care Roofing, we offer a flexible roof financing option for homeowners in KItchener-Waterloo who can’t afford the upfront costs of a roof repair or replacement. Learn more about it here: What If I Can’t Afford a Professional Roofer in Kitchener-Waterloo?
What is the best roofing material for your money?
Asphalt shingles are one of the cheapest and most popular roofing materials used in Kitchener-Waterloo. While incredibly affordable, they also have a decently long lifespan if you buy from the right manufacturers.