3 min read
Two estimates can look similar on paper and be completely different in reality. That gap is where most roofing problems start.
A vague “roof replacement” line item is a red flag. A detailed estimate should specify whether they’re doing a full tear-off to the deck — the only way to actually inspect for wood rot — and include a per-sheet price for replacing damaged plywood or OSB, so you’re not blindsided if the wood underneath is soft.
Beyond the shingles themselves, your estimate should name specific brands and product lines for every layer of the system: the shingle type and wind-speed rating, whether they’re using standard felt or a tear-resistant synthetic underlayment, and exactly what ice and water shield product is going on your valleys and eaves. A lot of contractors just write “ice guard.” You deserve to know what you’re actually getting.
Flashing and ventilation round out the picture — and they’re the two most common points of failure in residential roofing. Flashing should be replaced, not just re-sealed, around chimneys, dormers, and dead valleys. On ventilation, a professional should explain whether they’re installing ridge vents, box vents, or solar fans, and provide an actual ventilation calculation specific to your home.
Roofing is essentially a controlled demolition of your home’s exterior. Your estimate should explain how your property is being protected throughout. At Campo, we use an Equipter — a self-propelled debris collection machine — rather than catch-all netting. It’s more expensive and significantly more effective. The estimate should also address driveway protection and explicitly mention the use of high-powered magnetic rollers to remove stray nails from your lawn and driveway when the job is done.
Your estimate should also include a timeline and a contingency plan. Most homes take one to three days, but you should know exactly what happens if a storm rolls in while your roof is open.
Before we start any job, we sit down with you to walk through exactly what’s happening. When we’re done, we do it again. You should never be left wondering what was done or why.
Throughout the job, we document everything with CompanyCam — every photo time-stamped and geo-tagged. There’s never a question about what was done, how it was done, or when.
There are two distinct types of warranty, and your estimate should list both. The manufacturer’s warranty covers defects in the materials. The workmanship warranty covers the installation — if a shingle is perfect but installed incorrectly, only the workmanship warranty protects you.
Here’s what most contractors won’t tell you: a company-issued workmanship warranty is only as good as the company’s ability to still be in business when you need it. The only warranty worth having is one that’s backed and held by the manufacturer. Only top-tier, accredited contractors can offer this. Most can’t.
The Bottom Line
The hidden costs of a vague estimate usually show up three to five years later. Missing flashing leads to drywall damage. Poor ventilation leads to attic mold. No ice and water shield leads to rotted eaves. A detailed estimate isn’t just paperwork — it’s proof that the job is being done right the first time.
If an estimate feels rushed or fits on a single page, the installation probably will too.
Ready to see what a real estimate looks like? Start by booking your free 25-point inspection here.
Looking to start a home exterior project? Let us know and start the conversation