How Do Roofing Contractors Determine A Roof Replacement Cost
What Does A Roof Replacement Cost?
When looking at a roofing estimate, it is crucial to understand what went into the roof replacement cost estimate you were presented.
Your roof is a critical component of your home's structural integrity and your family's comfort and safety. If ignored, even a small leak can turn into thousands of dollars of repairs. You might need a roof replacement if you look at your roof and see broken, curled, or missing shingles or signs of water damage on your interior walls and ceilings.
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When it comes to maintaining the value of your home, the smartest money you can spend is replacing the roof when needed. While the $5000 to $10,000 (or more!) cost might seem like a lot, it is important to understand that replacing your roofing system requires time, effort, equipment, and materials to achieve a professional result.
When undertaking any major home renovation project, like a roof replacement, getting three or four bids from reliable roofing contractors is good to get an accurate roof replacement cost range. If you are unsure if a replacement is necessary, hiring a roofing inspector can help you make a more informed decision.
Learn what goes into a roof replacement cost proposal and what your contractor considers when estimating your project.
Factors Your Contractor Considers When Preparing A Quote
A reputable roofing contractor will always be happy to answer all your questions about their estimate and be open and transparent about the process. There are several factors they will consider when preparing your quote. These include:
The type of home you live in.
As a general rule, the number of stories is a factor. Typically, the higher the house, the higher the price. A multi-story home will require much more effort to get materials and workers up on your roof. The pitch of the roof is also a factor. Is it a steep angle? Is it safe to walk on? For example, a steeply pitched roof needs additional safety measures, like a roof rail or a safety harness-lanyard system.
How many layers of material must be removed/replaced?
The typical roofing system consists of several layers of material placed on top of the plywood roof decking. First, a membrane is placed over the plywood. It is made from felt saturated with asphalt, rubberized asphalt, or synthetic fabric. It protects the shingles against resin and the decking from moisture and bad weather. In colder climates, like Illinois, a second eaves membrane is placed under some or all of the shingles to prevent water infiltration caused by ice dams. Shingles are the next layer and are placed over the membranes. In some cases, if a home has been re-roofed, a second layer of shingles may have been installed over the original roof.
Materials
Materials are always a factor when it comes to your quote. Shingles come in different grades at different prices. Metal, shake, or tile roofing materials can cost more. These materials are the main factor involved in most roof replacement costs. Once your old roof is removed, you may need to replace some of the decking. This cost is also factored into your quote.
Price Per Square
One square equals 100 square feet (10'x10'). When it comes to your roof, the square footage of your roof is very different than the square footage of your home. For example, a ranch-style home will have more square footage than a two-story home, even though a two-story home may have larger usable square feet of living space.
What Is Included in a Roof Replacement Cost Quote
When your roofing contractor presents you with a quote, it will include all the above factors and additional considerations. The price will vary based on size, pitch, how it is installed on the deck, products and supplies needed, layers of existing shingles, code requirements, skylights, chimneys, plumbing pipes, or other features.
You will be presented with a quote based on a “per square” basis. Your quote will include all of the above factors plus actual and overhead costs, including shingles, supplies, supplies, protective elements (additional layers based on your property's location), waste removal, and labor.
Generally, most roofing contractors will present you with an all-inclusive per square roof replacement cost. Others may separate the cost of removing and disposing of the old roof. Removal can cost anywhere from $1 to $5 per square foot. If your contractor finds rotting timbers or decking when your old roof is removed, this will be an additional charge.
A reputable roofing contractor will break down their estimate for you and happily answer any questions. They will explain your options for roofing materials and the costs involved.
If you live in the Wilmette, Illinois area, give the experts at Lynch Roofing a call at (847) 217-0004. If you are unsure if you need a roof replacement, we can perform an inspection to determine whether to repair or replace your roof. We will prepare a quote and present you with all your options. Our team will keep your roof ready to meet the challenges of our Illinois weather and up your home's curb appeal!
