At some point, all homeowners must look at getting their roofs repaired or replaced. After all, even the best fitted roof won’t last forever. If your roof is beginning to show signs of wear and tear or you have a leak, then it’s time to get in touch with a roofing expert who can assess the issue and provide you with a detailed roofing quote or estimate.
All reputable roofing companies will be happy to provide an estimate for a new roof or to repair your existing roof based on your specific circumstances.
But do you know what a roofing estimate should include?
In this blog, we’ll look at a few essentials that should always be present to help you make the right decision.
A Professional Roof Look
A reputable roofing company should always provide a written quote or estimate that looks professional! It should include the company’s name, and contact information, including a phone number and email address, as well as a physical business address. They should also have their state license number listed and always provide a current copy of their worker’s compensation and liability insurance.
Expect Price Breakdown
In truth, you’ll be most interested in the price breakdown aspect of the roofing estimate. Unsurprisingly, a less-reputable roofing contractor might pick a number out of thin air and tell you the cost right away, or they may write it on the back of their business card. But if they do that, they probably don’t know what they’re doing and will likely end up charging you more or causing you more headaches.
A proper written roof estimate will include a price breakdown with the scope of work, including the removal of the old roof, the cost of the materials, the labor, and anything more.
When the Work Will Begin/End
No one wants to live with a faulty roof. You’ll be eager for work to get underway as soon as possible and to be completed within a specific timeframe. However, the start date could vary from two to six weeks or more, depending on backlog and weather conditions. Regardless of when they can start, the contractor should be straightforward about their availability, so you know what to expect. Once the work begins, the job should not be interrupted by anything other than the weather. While the time it takes to install a roof can vary depending on the size of the home, an asphalt shingle roof typically takes approximately three to five days to complete.
Provisions for Unforeseen Circumstances
The roofing project cost can go up substantially if material prices increase before the commencement of the job or if the contractor experiences any unforeseen circumstances during the course of completing a job. For example, suppose the contractor discovers that the plywood deck is rotting. In that case, they may have to purchase more materials or add additional labor to complete the job on time.
Contract and Payment Terms
The roofing contract should state the terms of terminating the agreement and the notice that should be provided. Also, the contract should state the scope of the warranty, any payments that need to be made, along with the due date(s), and whether deposits are refundable. It is not uncommon for contractors to require clients to pay a fixed percentage of the contract’s total value upon signing. For example, in California, the maximum required deposit should not exceed $1,000 or 10% of the contract amount (excluding finance charges).
Conclusion
It’s always best to work with a reputable contractor whenever possible. Of course, referrals are ideal, but if you can’t get a referral, make sure to do your homework. Read reviews, visit their website, and check out their social media page(s) to learn more about the company.
If you’re looking for a new roof, or need your existing roof repaired, then be sure to get in touch with us here at GreatWay Roofing. We’ll be happy to provide a free comprehensive estimate. And if you decide to work with us, you can rest assured that you’ll receive the best craftsmanship and service possible.
Greatway Roofing has over 20 years of experience as the leading Ventura County, Santa Clarita Valley, and the west San Fernando Valley roofing company. We offer free, comprehensive estimates, and our workmanship is guaranteed. Contact us today and talk to one of our friendly team members at (805) 523-2550.