Whether you’re working on a kitchen remodeling or a roof replacement project, budget is one of the most important things you need to consider. Your roof is your home’s main line of defense against harsh outdoor elements. It’s also essential to your family’s comfort and safety. This is why it pays to invest in quality roofing material and a reliable contractor.
Read on to find out what can affect the cost of your new roof.
Why Do Roofing Estimates Vary?
Some contractors who are desperate for customers may be offering lower prices because they are inexperienced or desperate for clients. For instance, a new business may be willing to install your roof at a lower price since they need to establish a client base. Small companies without an office may also ask for less money for the job without sacrificing quality. However, be wary of storm chasers or weekend warriors. These contractors offer low bids without liability insurance or worker’s compensation.
A roofing contractor who is licensed, insured, bonded and have employees instead of subcontractors may ask for a higher cost. It’s the same for roofers with a physical office address. A more comprehensive warranty may increase your project cost a little, but it will give you peace of mind.
Material Cost
Estimates from professional roofing contractors usually allocate 40 percent for material and 60 percent for labor. Some may charge more for skylights, chimney flashings, and other fixtures. Like with window replacement, the higher the quality and the longer the lifespan of a material, the more expensive it can be. Also, average prices are typically more applicable to single-story homes like ranches, capes, and colonials. Meanwhile, two-story homes usually have a higher cost per square.
The three most popular types of shingles are premium, architectural, and three-tab. Premium shingles have the highest quality among the three and can last for up to 50 years. Dimensional or architectural shingles are thicker than three-table shingles and are a cost-effective option for homeowners. Moreover, three-tab shingles don’t cost as much as the two previous options. They can last from ten to fifteen years.
Labor Cost
Some roofers provide a quote that includes removing and disposing of old shingles while others provide a quote for an overlay. There are also some instances where roofers provide you the price for removing the old roof and then charge you separately for the actual cost of disposing of the old materials based on the costs they paid for at the dump.
How Your New Roof Is Installed
When having your roof replaced, you can choose between a tear-off and an overlay. In a tear-off, your contractor will remove all of the old materials before installing the new ones. Meanwhile, in an overlay, roofers install new shingles over the old ones.
Building codes usually allow for two layers of asphalt shingles on a residential property. While nailing new shingles over existing ones is faster and cheaper, your roofer won’t be able to repair any damage beneath the roof. They won’t be able to examine the sheathing for signs of water damage.
If your home has already two layers of shingles, a tear-off is your only option. Even if you only have a single layer, this is still a better method than an overlay. Removing the old roof means your contractor can address any problem your roof has, so it’s stronger than ever after installation. A tear-off can also deliver more beautiful results since the shingles lie flatter.
When it’s time to get a new roof, choose BFARR Contracting. Aside from superior roofing services, you can also count on us for your kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. Call us at (321) 444-6446 or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate.