How Does a Roofer Calculate Estimates?

Ever wonder how your roofing contractor calculates estimates? It’s both tricky and simple as you might suspect.

There are tons of variables that go into how a roofer calculates estimates. We have a mental list of things to review before we start putting numbers down.

Here are what we look into when quoting homeowners:

Square Footage of the Roof

We use sophisticated roof aerial measurement software to obtain accurate measurements. This includes measuring the square footage of shingles, amount of gutters, vents, and all other roofing accessories.

From there, we compare it with what our vendors are pricing the material so we can order enough of the right material.

Why is that important? Coming up short on materials could possibly delay completing the job or cause some roofers to be “creative” in re-allocating materials.

Here’s an example of when another roofing contractor did not order enough ridge cap and they used regular shingles on the ridge of the roof:

Pricing for Trades

Oftentimes hail damage goes beyond the roof and onto the siding and windows. Most roofers are trained to inspect these peripheral items and quote accordingly.

Though not right or wrong, some roofing contractors have an in-house crew to service these items (siding and windows) while others use subcontractors.

Part of what goes into an insurance claim is the knowledge to search for damage in these other items and account for the work it would take to restore them.

Other Scope of Work Considerations

This item can often be overlooked by a roofing company, however, it’s important to know.

For instance, sometimes based on how your gables and pitches are set in your home may require additional labor charges.

What this means is that sometimes you have just a section of roof hanging over called an “eyebrow” (see below) . Clearly, it would not be feasible safe for a roofing crew member to 1.) Roof from sitting on that platform or 2.) Lean over and try to roof that section.

As such, there may be additional charges because of the extra time and detail required to roof these sections.

Summary

It takes a knowledge and experience to know how a roofer calculates estimates. They have to be able to ask the right questions and also know what to look for when inspecting for damage.

If not, sometimes the homeowner is left to pay for additional work that is “out of scope” that the roofer never considered.

The old adage is true: “you don’t know what you don’t know”

Pick a roofer that knows.

Call us if you would like a FREE inspection at (402) 889-3381.