There are many reasons why roof replacement cost estimates vary from one roofing contractor to another. These include the type of roof shingles used, what kind of roof warranty is included, and how the roof replacement work is being done.
To properly compare the various roof replacement quotes you have received, make sure you know what the roofing contractors have included in their roof cost estimate.
Warranty of Roof Shingles Impact Roof Replacement Cost
Roof shingles are available in numerous styles and types of construction that can affect their performance and longevity. Each type of roof shingle also comes with its own warranty coverage. Be aware of the warranty coverage included in the type of roof shingle you are choosing. For example, the warranty of some roof shingles may cover only defects that results in leak vs. roof shingle warranties that includes coverage from any type of defect, including aesthetic defects.
How Roof Shingles are Measured Affects Cost Estimate
Roof shingles are sold in bundles, but roofs are measured in “squares”. Three bundles equal one square. A professional roofer will usually quote a firm price based on the number of “squares” needed to cover the roof. They measure the roof before quoting a price and the number of squares does not change. This ability is what makes them a professional.
Estimates that are not firm can be based on the amount of potential damage to the sheathing beneath the roof shingles. This can only be discovered when the old shingles have been removed.
Other low estimates are often based on placing the new shingles directly over the old roof shingles. The old shingles should usually always be removed. Installing new roof shingles over old ones can lead to premature failure and possibly void the manufacturer’s warranty.
Many owners are not made aware by non-professional roofers of this option. These roofers seldom offer a warranty on their work and instead extol the virtues of the manufacturer warranty. The money saved by using them is quickly lost when problems occur.
Other Factors that Impact the Cost of Roof Replacement
Uninsured non-professionals are always able to offer a lower price for installing roof shingles. Unfortunately, they usually charge about the same as professionals while performing substandard work without a reliable warranty.
Installing roof shingles without the guidance of a licensed professional roofing contractor leaves the buyer to fend for themselves if warranty work is needed. Another problem owners often discover is insurance companies may refuse to pay for a weather-damaged roof if a licensed roofer did not install it.