How To Compare Re-Roof Estimates

Comparing Re-Roof Estimates

Tracy Bookman, owner of Homestead Roofing, explains how homeowners can compare re-roof estimates on an apples-to-apples basis. Prices can differ because contractors may be proposing different materials, measurements, or work.

The central recommendation is to create a request for proposal (RFP) that defines the same scope of work for every roofer. That makes price differences easier to evaluate.

The 14 Items to Define or Compare

1. Roof measurements

Don’t assume every roofer measured the roof the same way. Measurements may come from aerial imagery, photo-based services, or manual measuring.

Ask each roofer to show the measurements used, including total roof area and key lengths such as ridges, eaves, gable ends, and flashing runs. Make sure all estimates use the same figures.

2. Shingle manufacturer and model

Research the manufacturer and specific shingle model you want, then name them in the RFP.

Consider contractor feedback, installation experience, and how the manufacturer handles warranty issues—not only homeowner ratings. Bookman says Homestead Roofing often uses CertainTeed because of its experience with the company’s contractor and homeowner support.

3. Ridge shingles

Decide whether you want standard ridge shingles or a higher-profile style. Specify your choice so every estimate includes the same option.

4. Underlayment

Choose the type of underlayment, such as felt or a synthetic product, and specify it. If an extended manufacturer warranty is part of the proposal, the roofer may need to use that manufacturer’s underlayment.

5. Ice-and-water shield

Check with your local building department to learn whether ice-and-water shield is required for your property and where it must be installed. Requirements vary by location and may cover eaves, valleys, walls, or different distances beyond the interior wall line.

If you want it in areas where it isn’t required, specify the product and installation locations.

6. Drip edge

Ask for drip edge at both the eaves and the gable ends, also called rakes. This metal flashing sits under the shingles and extends down in front of the fascia.

7. Wall flashing

Ask whether head-wall/end-wall and side-wall flashing should be replaced, particularly if it has been reused through multiple re-roofings.

Rust, holes, or bent and wavy metal may indicate that replacement is needed. Side-wall flashing can be harder to inspect because it is often partly hidden. Bookman describes replacing flashing during each re-roof as a best practice, since old flashing can remain a source of leaks.

8. Pipe flashing

Specify the type of pipe flashing to be included. Bookman suggests an aluminum-base, neoprene-boot style as a straightforward baseline for comparing estimates. Upgraded options can be considered separately.

9. Starter shingles

Specify where starter shingles should be installed: at the eaves and, if desired, at the gable ends.

Bookman notes that starter shingles at the gable ends may qualify the roof for a higher wind-warranty rating, depending on the manufacturer.

10. Number of nails per shingle

State how many nails you require and confirm that the roofer will install that number.

Bookman says some manufacturers’ standard installation uses four nails, while six may qualify for a higher wind-warranty rating. Requirements and warranty terms depend on the manufacturer. Make sure the estimate and completed work match.

11. Ventilation

Ask whether the existing ventilation is adequate or needs changes. A net-free ventilation area calculator can help estimate intake and exhaust needs using the attic’s square footage, not the home’s total area.

Specify the required type and amount of ventilation, such as ridge vent, box vents, or soffit vents.

12. Workmanship warranty

Compare each roofer’s labor or workmanship warranty, which covers problems caused by installation rather than product defects. Warranty periods vary, so make a reasonable request and confirm the exact coverage in the proposal.

13. Manufacturer warranty

Confirm that the manufacturer’s warranty will be registered. If you want an extended warranty, ask what it covers, what conditions apply, and whether it requires particular materials or installation practices.

14. Ask roofers to review the RFP

Ask each roofer whether any requested work seems unnecessary or whether anything important has been omitted. If you accept a suggested change, update the scope for all bidders so the estimates remain comparable.

Bonus Advice

• Use the RFP as a starting point, not as a claim that you are a roofing expert.
• If you don’t know why an item is included, ask the roofer to explain it rather than bluffing.
• The goal is to be an informed client and ensure every estimate covers the same work—not to insist on requirements you don’t understand.

Speakers and Sources Featured

• Tracy Bookman — Owner of Homestead Roofing and the video’s presenter.
• Referenced sources and resources: Local building departments; roof-measurement methods and services, including EagleView- and Hover-type reports; shingle manufacturers including Owens Corning, GAF, CertainTeed, Atlas, TAMKO, IKO, and Malarkey; and ventilation calculators offered by shingle manufacturers.