Hot Take Tuesday: Roofing Estimate Red Flags

Welcome to Hot Take Tuesday, where your endearing host, Cassie Findley, gives you the hot takes on roofing materials, brands, and manufacturers every week. She works to provide her dear readers with a quick tell-all on the current roofing trends, types, and technologies, without all of that cold & clinical copy. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy!

When it comes to roofing, no one wants to spend more money than necessary, but cutting corners can lead to long-term headaches. A good roofing estimate should provide clarity, and give you confidence that the contractor will deliver on their promises. Unfortunately, not all estimates are created equal. To help you avoid costly mistakes, let's cover some red flags to watch out for when reviewing roofing estimates in today's Hot Take Tuesday!

Vague or Incomplete Details

A good estimate should outline exactly what work will be done, the materials being used, and the expected timeline for completion. If the estimate is missing these key details, it’s a red flag. Without specifics, you have no way of knowing what you’re actually paying for. This could lead to surprise costs later on or shortcuts in the work itself.

Look for:

? A clear breakdown of materials, labor, and any additional services.

? A projected start and finish date.

? Specific brands and types of roofing materials.

If you’re not getting this information, it’s time to ask some hard questions or move on to another contractor.

Unreasonably Low Bids

We all love a bargain, but if a bid is significantly lower than others, that’s a huge red flag. A low estimate might seem like a win at first, but it could mean the contractor is cutting corners. They could be using substandard materials, skipping crucial steps in the installation process, or even underestimating the amount of labor involved. All of these could result in a roof that doesn’t last.

Before you jump at the lowest bid, make sure it’s realistic. Compare it with other estimates and look for discrepancies in the work scope or the materials used. Ask the contractor how they’re able to offer such a low price and pay close attention to their response.

No Warranty Mentioned

A solid roofing estimate should come with a warranty for both materials and labor. If the estimate doesn’t mention a warranty or the warranty seems vague, this is a major red flag. A contractor who is confident in their work will offer a warranty to back it up. Without it, you’re left vulnerable to potential issues down the road that you’ll have to pay to fix out of pocket.

At a minimum, look for:

? A manufacturer’s warranty on the roofing materials.

? A labor warranty that covers installation defects.

Be wary of contractors who downplay the importance of warranties or try to push you into waiving them to save a little upfront.

Cash-Only Deals

If a roofing contractor insists on being paid in cash or asks for large payments upfront, proceed with caution. This can be a sign they’re trying to avoid taxes, operate under the radar, or don’t have a legitimate business. Even worse, you’ll have little recourse if things go south.

A reputable contractor will offer multiple payment options, including checks or credit cards, and will break down the payment schedule so that you’re not paying for the entire project before it begins. If they’re hesitant to give you this transparency, it’s better to look elsewhere.

No Physical Address or Business Information

If the roofing company doesn’t have a local business address or a professional website, consider it a red flag. Fly-by-night contractors often show up after storms, offer fast work for low prices, and then disappear once the job is done (or half-done).

A legitimate company should have a physical location, business insurance, and the appropriate licensing to operate in your area.

You can verify a contractor’s legitimacy by checking their online presence, reading customer reviews, and confirming their license and insurance. Any resistance or sketchiness here is a major sign to avoid them.

No References or Reviews

A good contractor will have a list of satisfied customers who can vouch for their work. If the contractor you’re considering either refuses to provide references or has no online presence, that’s a red flag.

Checking reviews, asking for recommendations, and speaking to past clients can give you peace of mind about the quality of the contractor’s work.

In the roofing industry, reputation is everything. A contractor who can’t provide proof of their past successes likely won’t provide the quality of work you need.

Final Thoughts

A roofing estimate should give you confidence, not cause concern. By watching out for these red flags, you can avoid contractors who are more interested in making a quick buck than in delivering quality work. Remember to ask questions, compare bids, and never settle for anything less than full transparency. When it comes to your roof, it’s worth investing in a company that will do the job right the first time.