How to Compare Roofing Quotes Apples to Apples

If you’re getting roofing quotes, you should get more than one. We’d tell you that even though one of them might be ours.

What you’ll notice fast is that three quotes can come back with three very different prices. Here’s how to tell what you’re actually comparing.

Compare the products

Two quotes can both say “new shingle roof” and mean very different things. Ask which manufacturer and which product line. Ask whether it’s an impact-rated shingle. On our jobs that’s usually Atlas Pinnacle Pristine (Class 3) or Pinnacle Impact (Class 4).

If one quote doesn’t name the product at all, ask why.

Compare the warranties

There are two warranties on a roof, and you want to know about both.

• Manufacturer warranty. Covers the shingles themselves. Ask whether the contractor registers it for you.
• Workmanship warranty. Covers the installation. Ask how long it lasts, what it covers, and whether it transfers if you sell the house.

Ours is a lifetime workmanship warranty, and it’s fully transferable.

Ask about tear-off

Some low bids are low because they plan to lay new shingles over the old ones instead of tearing off. That hides problems in the decking and isn’t the job you think you’re paying for. Ask every contractor whether they’re doing a full tear-off.

Ask for proof of insurance

This one matters more than most people think. Make sure the contractor carries general liability insurance. If something goes wrong and your property gets damaged, their insurance should cover it, not you.

The contractors who cut corners on price are often the same ones who aren’t insured. Ask to see the certificate.

Look at their track record

Read their reviews. Look at past jobs. Ask questions until you’re comfortable. A good contractor will take the time to walk you through what you need and why, not just hand you a number.

The mistake we see most

When homeowners haven’t been told the differences in products and warranties, everyone defaults to price. That’s how people end up with the cheapest contractor, and that’s usually where the problems start.

Already have a quote?

Send it our way. If you have a written quote from another contractor for the same roofing system, product and warranty coverage, ask us about our price match. Call (936) 632-9002. Inspections are always free.