How to Read Your Roofing Estimate, Line by Line

A good roofing estimate isn't a single number — it's a description of the roof you're buying. Once you know what a complete estimate should contain, the vague ones stand out immediately, and so do the ones leaving things out to look cheap. Here's what to look for.

Tear-off and disposal. Removing the old roof and hauling it away. Note whether it's a single layer or multiple — more layers means more labor and dump fees.

Decking inspection and replacement. How they handle rotten or damaged wood once the old roof is off. You want a per-sheet price stated up front, not a blank to be filled in later.

Underlayment. The specific product and type. This is the line most people skip and the one that matters most for keeping water out.

Flashing. Whether flashing at walls, valleys, and penetrations is being replaced or reused. It should say.

Ventilation. What's being done for attic airflow — ridge vents, off-ridge vents, etc. Proper ventilation protects the whole roof's lifespan.

The roof covering. The actual tile, shingle, or metal — brand, type, and color. This is the part most estimates describe well, because it's the part you're already looking at.

Fasteners / install method. Especially on tile, how it's being attached (screw-set vs. adhesive) and any steep-slope detailing. (See the tile article.)

Permitting and inspection. A legitimate re-roof is permitted and inspected. It should be on the estimate.

Warranty. Both the manufacturer's material warranty and the contractor's workmanship warranty — and how long each lasts.

Payment schedule. When money is due. Be cautious of anyone demanding a large amount up front before work begins.

Lay two estimates side by side using this list. The gaps tell the story. The cheaper bid almost always has blank lines where the more complete bid has detail — and now you know which blanks matter.