Do you need your roof replaced? Getting a roof estimate seems like an easy process on the surface. It’s a piece of paper with information on it that often contains a high number.

However, a roof estimate is more than a ton of data with a number attached to it. This document tells you everything wrong with the roofing system and provides an itemized list of what you’ll pay when you deal with a roof repair or replacement.

Most homeowners get taken advantage of at the estimation stage because they don’t know what they’re seeing. Though the roofing company chosen probably isn’t doing it on purpose, it’s important to know what a roof estimate contains and what information to look for when viewing one. Let’s get started!

How Do Roofing Contractors Factor in Time and Labor for the Roofing Estimate?

Before we jump into what’s included in the estimate, it’s crucial to know that the roofing contractor will factor labor costs into each line item on the estimate. If it takes time to do during the roof repair or replacement, the appropriate prices are included.

Typically, component and material prices will include the cost of the items and the labor to install them. All roofing contractors have varying labor costs, depending on the crew size and overhead of the roofing business.

What’s Often Included in the Roofing Estimate?

The roofing estimate must be specific and include an itemized list of everything that will happen during the roof replacement. This consists of how many layers are torn off, what the contractor will do to protect the property, how long the estimate is good for, and more.

Here are the line items included in almost every roof estimate provided to homeowners:

How the Roofing Contractor Will Protect the Property

Protecting the property is a crucial aspect of the roof replacement process. In the roofing estimate, the contractor will have line items with a list of what they plan to use, what it will cost, and why they require them. For example, you might see tarps or plastic to cover the swimming pool, attic, patio/deck, landscaping, and other things that might get damaged around the home.

How Many Layers Must Be Torn Off

One important thing that a roofing contractor includes in your roofing estimate is how many layers must be torn off the roof before the installation of new materials. In fact, all roof estimates include one layer, but if two or more must be removed, those incur an added cost.

Usually, roofing contractors will check for multiple layers when they do an initial inspection. However, it’s possible to miss this. Likewise, it’s a tactic used by bad roofers to help them keep costs low initially and beat other competitors.

Roofing Materials Needed

The roofing material you select is the top layer of the roof, which means everyone sees it. Ultimately, the roofing estimate should include the roofing material type, color, style, manufacturer, and amount needed. This is often required for shingles.

If you choose metal roofing instead, the line item would include the manufacturer, the panel number, the type of metal, and the color selected.

Regardless of the type of roofing materials you select, the line item should say what it is, how much you need, the style, and the color.

Roof Decking Replacement

Your roof estimate should have a line item to replace the rotted roof decking. In most cases, it’s impossible to see your roof’s decking condition until everything has been torn off.

Therefore, a line item must specify how much it will cost per board or sheet to replace the rotted decking if and when it’s found. Some roofing contractors will automatically provide replacement decking in their roofing estimates. Ultimately, this means you’re paying for that wood, even if they don’t use it.

Installation Methods (When Appropriate)

Usually, the installation method focuses mainly on asphalt shingles and the brands that provide hand nailing. If you’re using asphalt shingles, the roofing estimate should include your installation method, how many nails you need per shingle, and the total number of nails.

Sometimes, the roofing contractor doesn’t provide hand-nailing services, so the installation method isn’t listed in the estimate. However, you should assume the new roof will get installed with an air gun. Likewise, this line item will still apply if it’s a simple roof repair, such as replacing a few shingles.

Components of the Existing Roof System

Though the roofing material makes up most of the roof, there are other components to consider. The roofing contractor will likely check these things. If they don’t, the roof estimate might not be all-inclusive, which means there are hidden fees attached.

Here are a few roofing components contractors should consider:

Roof Flashing

Roof flashing is a metal that’s placed where the shingles will butt up against things, such as open valleys, chimneys, or walls. Though it could be reused in some cases, it’s always better to replace it when putting on a new roof.

Overall, the roof estimate should always include each type of roof flashing, the metal type, color, and where it will be installed.

Pipe Boots

Pipe boots get installed around and over the base of pipes and penetrations in the roof to prevent leaks. The roof estimate must include how many penetrations the roof has and the kind of boot needed to go around them. Residential roofing often uses neoprene rubber as the pipe boot.

Roof Vents

Your ventilation system includes roof vents, and they’re crucial to the home’s health and the roof’s life. The estimate for your roofing project should consist of the color, the vent type, and the number of vents you need to ventilate the attic space properly.

If the right number of vents (exhaust and intake) aren’t included in the estimate, the roof could fail prematurely.

Drip Edge

The drip edge is the metal flashing installed around the edges of the roof. This prevents water from going behind the gutters and rotting the roof decking and fascia boards. Your roof estimate must include how much you need, the color (if you care), and where the drip edges are to be installed.

A drip edge should be included with every roofing estimate since it’s part of the residential building codes in most areas. However, you might not need a drip edge at the rakes if you have rake molding or an aluminum fascia.

Ridge Capping

Ridge capping is ultimately the trim that’s installed at the peaks where your two slopes meet. It’s used to seal the roof. The roofing estimate should include the manufacturer and list that it’s specifically for ridge capping.

Some roofing contractors will keep costs low by cutting extra three-tab shingles and using them as the ridge capping. You will notice this because there’s no manufacturer listed on that line item (or one isn’t provided at all).

Starter Shingles

Starter shingles are considered asphalt-based shingles that are installed before your first row of asphalt shingles. They are used to waterproof the roof’s edge (rakes and eaves). The roof estimate must include the manufacturer and where they are to be installed.

Ice and Water Shield

The ice and water shield is a special waterproof membrane that’s installed in vulnerable areas, such as around penetrations and in valleys. This protects the roof from water and ice damage. Your estimate must be specific about which materials are used and what is installed.

Underlayment

An underlayment is a synthetic or felt material that gets installed over your roof decking to offer additional protection. If you require it for your roofing project, the contractor should be specific on the type, size, and manufacturer used.

Clean Up and Dump Fees

Roof replacements create a ton of trash and construction debris that must be loaded up and disposed of at the local dump. The roofing estimate should include the labor required and the dump fees to cover the cost of taking it to the landfill and throwing it out.

Likewise, your roofing project isn’t done until everything is cleaned up. The time and labor required to pick up nails and the roofing debris are included in the estimate. This ensures that your property looks like it did before the work began. Therefore, it’s wise to check for this line item!

Warranty Information

The estimate you get must include all the warranties you receive with the roof replacement and specify the material warranty you receive from the manufacturer. Most shingle manufacturers have differing warranties, so it’s wise to know what was put on the roof.

In most cases, the roofing contractor also includes a workmanship warranty. This varies between companies, but it is important. If the contractor fails to do something properly, they agree to come back and fix the issue, usually for free.

Ability to Back out of the Roofing Contract

Every roofing estimate should have a right-to-recession clause. This allows you to back out of using that particular roofing contractor. You might have felt they rushed you to sign the contract or learned about something that makes you change your mind.

Ultimately, the law says that you have three days once you sign to get out of the contract. Likewise, some roofing estimates will have clauses stating that the homeowner agrees to pay 10 percent of the full contract if they back out after those three days are gone.

How Long That Estimate Is Good

When the roofing contractor hands you the estimate, the countdown starts. Typically, it will include how long the estimate will be good for and specify that by date and time.

Since roofing materials can fluctuate significantly, most proposals are only good for 90 days (three months). If you decide to go ahead with the work after the 90 days have passed, most roofing contractors will update the estimate to reflect those new prices for the materials. The clock will start again, and you have 90 days to sign the contract and start the project.

Why You Should Go Over This Roofing Estimate Checklist with a Reputable Roofing Company

One critical component of getting roof estimates is going over them with the companies providing them. Each roofing contractor should be willing to sit down with you and go over each line item so that you’re comfortable knowing what you’re paying for. Likewise, you can ask questions, air out concerns, and more.

You need to establish trust with the contractor, and if they aren’t willing to explain things, you shouldn’t hire them to put on your new roof. It’s a huge red flag if a professional roofer won’t go over your estimate and discuss the entire process.

Work with WDR Austin!

After reading this article, you know the importance of a roof estimate and what’s included. Now, it’s time to find a roofing team willing to help with your roof repair or replacement!

Though you should get more than one roofing quote to compare prices and options, one of them will likely be WDR Austin. We’re one of the top roofing companies in the area and have 25+ years of experience in the industry. Please request your free roof inspection by calling (512) 820-6505 today!

FAQs About Roofing Estimates

There’s little more concerning than a leaking roof. Because it can lead to the degradation of other important structures in the home, it’s important to deal with a roof leak as quickly as possible. How do you go about addressing this kind of problem, though, and is there a way to fix the problem without having to get onto your roof?

The good news is that there is, and in this guide, we will teach you how to repair a leaking roof from the inside.

Why It’s Important to Act Fast

Not many people truly understand the importance of responding to a leaking roof quickly. The truth is that prompt action on your part can save you a great deal of trouble.

Responding quickly to roofing leaks is critical to preventing serious damage to your home. Water entry through a roof can cause a myriad of issues, such as the rotting of your roof decking, weakened insulation, and mold growth.

Furthermore, prolonged leaks can compromise the structural integrity of your roofing system and surrounding structures, potentially resulting in costly and dangerous issues. When ceiling joists and roof joints are affected, this could be a recipe for disaster.

Water damage may progress beyond a visible leak to affect other areas of the home, such as ceilings, walls, and even a home’s foundation. Timely repairs not only help to protect the structural integrity of your home but also ensure that other personal items are not ruined because of water intrusion.

Fixing Roof Leaks from the Inside

With that in mind, let’s talk about a few ways you can fix a leaking roof from the inside. Here are some of the steps to follow:

Start by Identifying the Source of the Leak

Before you can address the problem, finding out where the roof leak is is important. You can look for water stains, dampness, and mold growth to identify problem areas. Listening for the sound of dripping water is also a good idea.

When assessing the water damage from within the home, check for visible signs of roof damage, such as missing shingles or holes in your roofing system.

Conduct Emergency Roof Repairs

In some cases, you will need to conduct emergency roof repairs to prevent the degradation of your roof and other surrounding structures.

If there is heavy rain expected, for example, you will need to ensure that your roof is adequately protected. To create a temporary patch, you will need to start by removing any debris from the affected area and applying roofing tar using a putty knife.

Once you have applied the tar, cover it using a plastic roof covering. If you don’t have roof plastic, then a piece of plywood will do. Press it hard to form a seal. However, if the problem is too big for a patch, or if you aren’t confident enough to fix the roof yourself, consider hiring a 24-hour roof repair company.

How to Repair a Leaky Roof from the Inside

If you are not in an emergency situation but still need to protect your home from water intrusion, you can apply a patch from the inside. Here are the steps involved in this process:

1. Identify the origin of the leak and clear any insulating material or debris.
2. Make sure that the affected area is clean. You can do this by utilizing a putty knife to eliminate any weak or broken materials.
3. Use your putty knife to apply roof cement, spreading it around the affected area evenly.
4. Once you have applied the cement, be sure to cover it using a piece of aluminum flashing. Press it down so that it forms a seal.
5. Using roofing nails, fasten the aluminum flashing, covering the edges with roof cement to keep moisture from getting in.

Again, if you lack the confidence and resources to complete this kind of repair work, we highly recommend getting in touch with an experienced roofer for assistance.

Deal with Condensation

Roofing leaks may be caused by condensation rather than external water intrusion. Look for indications of high moisture levels in the attic, such as damp insulation or the formation of water droplets on surfaces. To address this issue, improve the ventilation in the area by installing vents or using a dehumidifier to minimize humidity.

Fix Small Cracks and Gaps

In some cases, leaks can be caused by minor cracks and gaps. Although these are generally not too serious, they can get worse over time, so you should definitely not leave them as is. Plus, they still allow water into your home, so make sure you are dealing with this issue promptly.

To establish a waterproof seal around tiny gaps and cracks, apply roofing sealant or caulk. Add a substantial amount of sealant to the affected area, ensuring thorough coverage. Be sure to select a product appropriate for your roofing material.

Fixing Issues Around Roof Penetrations

Examine the areas where chimneys, vents, or pipes have breached the roof. Leaks often happen around these entry points. Look for noticeable cracks, gaps, or broken sealant. You can use a flashlight to identify leaks and apply roofing cement or a specialized flashing sealant in these areas.

Contact a Professional Roofing Company for a Long-term Solution

When it comes to water damage, it’s important not to ignore it. Although your temporary solution might protect your belongings in the interim, your roof could continue to deteriorate. Be sure to approach a reliable roofer to address the underlying cause of the problem.

Sure, a permanent repair might cost a little more, but it will provide the peace of mind that one of the most important structures in your home is working as it ought to.

Need Help with Your Leaky Roof?

If you have a leaking roof, it’s essential that you address the problem promptly to prevent further damage. While you can apply a temporary patch until you are able to address the underlying issue, you will need professional assistance to create a more long-lasting solution.

Water Damage & Roofing Austin is here to help provide a more permanent repair that will improve the structural integrity of your roof. With over 25 years of experience fixing leaky roofs, you can trust us with roof replacement, repairs, and installation.

Contact us today to learn more or request your free estimate!

Frequently Asked Questions

Installing tile roofing on your home offers many advantages. Overall, you want a durable roof, and the tiles are strong enough to provide long-term protection from rain and wind. In fact, they can last 50 years or longer with the right maintenance.

Plus, clay tile roofs in Austin, TX, are great insulators, so your home will stay cooler in the summer months.

Many homeowners prefer tile roofing over asphalt shingles, but they might require repairs at times. Therefore, it’s wise to request a tile roof inspection from WDR Austin. Call (512) 820-6505 to get started or continue reading to learn about our roofing services and how to handle damaged tiles.

Types of Tile Roof Options Available in Austin, TX

You have many types of tile roofs available, and it’s important to learn about each one to understand if it’s suitable for your roofing project requirements. Let’s dive in to help you find the right option for your budget and needs:

Concrete Tile Roof

Concrete is highly versatile and can imitate the look of expensive materials, such as cedar, clay, and slate. It’s a great choice for almost any construction, and it’s cheaper in many cases. Ultimately, concrete ensures durability and is also earthquake-proof, hurricane-proof, temperature-resistant, and fire-resistant.

Clay Tile Roof

Clay roofs often add a touch of elegance and uniqueness to any structure and come in flat or half-round styles. Durability is a huge advantage here. Once you build the clay roof, it requires less maintenance than other roofing materials and will last many decades without requiring repairs. Though the initial investment is quite high, you will be confident knowing your roof is in good condition.

Synthetic Tile Roof

Synthetic tile offers a great return on investment because it’s designed to last longer than most traditional roofing materials, including clay tiles and asphalt shingles. Likewise, synthetic tiles are often lighter than clay tile roofs, so you don’t require additional structural support to enjoy them.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Tile Roofing

When deciding if you want clay tile roofing or something else, it’s wise to understand the pros and cons so you know what you can expect. Here is the list:

Benefits of a Tile Roof

Here are the benefits of having a tile roof:

Environmentally Friendly

A clay roof is made using natural materials (unless you go with a synthetic one). Therefore, they’re self-sustaining and could be reused after you’re finished with them. Plus, since you probably won’t have to replace the roof, you’re cutting down on the waste most homeowners deal with.

Longevity

If you want a long-lasting roof, a synthetic roofing material could be excellent. In fact, synthetic tiles have a lifespan that’s double that of asphalt and cedar. Concrete and clay could triple that number!

Weather-Resistant

Tiles are quite sturdy and heavy. Therefore, they can withstand high winds, fire, and hail. This is why they’re popular in hurricane-prone areas.

Energy-Efficient

Tile roofs are energy-efficient. The tiles feature a heavy thermal mass, which reflects the UV rays without absorbing them. This means the interior of the house is cooler!

Drawbacks of a Tile Roof

Here are the cons of having a tile roof:

High Initial Cost

Though a tile roof is more aesthetically appealing, they are more expensive than some of the other roofing materials available. Installation and material costs can quickly add up if you’re investing in a clay tile roof.

High Cost for Tile Repairs

Though clay tile roofing doesn’t require as much maintenance as other materials, the repair costs could be quite high if roof damage occurs. Therefore, it’s important to factor the price in when you budget for a clay roof installation.

Weight

Tile roofs are typically heavier than other materials. The additional weight means more structural support. This also raises the engineering requirements when installing them or getting roof replacements with tile.

Potential Tile Roof Services in Austin, TX

If you have a clay roof, you’ll likely require Austin roofing services at some point. Here are a few things to consider:

Tile Roof Installation

If you want a new tile roof, you’ll need a tile roof installation. This can happen if you have a different material and wish to upgrade or have many issues with your current roofing system.

Clay Tile Roof Repair

Roof repair can include things like replacing loose or broken tiles or dealing with roof damage. Leaks are also a possibility.

Tile Roof Maintenance

Even durable clay roofs can get damaged by wind, heavy rain, and more. It’s wise to get inspections periodically to see if roof repairs are necessary.

Tile Roof Replacement

Roof replacement is a big job, but it’s often necessary. If your current roof is old and worn, it’s wise to consider tile for the curb appeal and durability.

Why Work with WDR Austin

You have many tile roofing options available to you, and it’s likely time for a tile roof inspection in Austin, TX. WDR Austin is here to help you!

Our roofing contractors offer various services, including tile roof installation and repair. Please call (512) 820-6505 to request a free inspection today!

FAQs About Tile Roofing

Have you ever wondered how to estimate the square footage of your roof surface? Many people never worry about these things or believe they can look them up online when necessary. However, that’s usually not the case.

There are many reasons to know the roof’s square footage. You might be trying to figure out how many roofing shingles you need for your project. Likewise, you may want to hang holiday lights or hope to install a roof drip edge. Regardless, the process isn’t as straightforward as you might think.

Though it will take some math, you will find your roof measurements (square footage) with this helpful guide. However, working with a roofing professional might be wise if you plan to put on a new roof. They will do things correctly, saving you time, money, and effort while reducing stress.

Why Would You Need to Know Your Roof’s Square Footage?

Most homeowners rarely consider the roof’s square footage until they require a replacement or major repairs. When you know the size of the roof, you can:

• Determine the roofing materials you should buy
• Get accurate quotes from contractors
• Weigh the cost of varying roofing materials
• Set a budget for your project

Overall, the roof replacement cost depends mainly on the roof’s square footage. If you measure it and determine it’s more than expected, you may consider an alternative roofing material to lower your price. It’s crucial to have an idea of the options before diving in.

What’s a Roofing Square?

Before learning to measure the square footage, you should understand a roofing square. While you might assume that a roofing square equals a square foot, that’s not true! Understanding the differences between those measurements is crucial.

In terms of roofing, one square refers to a full 100-square-foot area. Therefore, a 2,000-square-foot roof requires 20 squares of the roofing material you prefer.

Measuring the Roof’s Square Footage

Though you can always grab a measuring tape and climb onto the roof to get the exact square footage, it’s often easier and safer to make calculations from the ground. Usually, approximate numbers are good enough when you’re creating a generalized budget for your project.

However, you will need a more accurate measurement if you’re ordering shingles or building roof trusses. Follow the steps below to learn how to measure a roof:

Find the Home’s Square Footage

Look at the home’s square footage to get an approximate roof square footage number. It won’t be entirely accurate if you have an irregularly shaped, sloped, or overhanging roof, but it will give you a good idea.

Here are the steps to get your square footage:

1. Measure the home’s length.
2. Measure the home’s width.
3. Multiply those numbers together.

Those steps work well if you have a rectangular roof. However, you must break things up into geometric areas if it’s any other shape. Calculate the square footage in each area, adding those together.

Measure Your Roof Pitch

When you know the home’s square footage, you must also determine the roof pitch to get an accurate measurement. The pitch is similar to the roof slope but not the same. Instead, the pitch is where the roof rises vertically (vertical rise) of the roof. This number is divided by your horizontal run.

Overall, you must examine how many inches the roof rises per foot. If you have a roof pitch 5/12, the roof will rise 5 inches for every 12 inches.

You might find your roof pitch on building plans and blueprints. Otherwise, you must calculate it, requiring you to be on the roof. This is very dangerous, and you shouldn’t do so unless you have the skills and tools for the job. However, if you’ve got a ladder and want to try, follow these steps:

1. Mark 12 inches with a measuring tape on your significant level.
2. Set up the ladder carefully.
3. Ask someone to hold your ladder while you climb to the roof.
4. Once on the roof, hold the level horizontally, firmly placing one edge against the roof’s slope.
5. Adjust the level to be level, ensuring the edge continues touching the roof.
6. Find that 12-inch mark you made earlier.
7. Measure the distance (vertically) between the roof and the 12-inch mark on the level.
8. Divide the number you get by 12.

For example, there are 7 inches between the roof and the 12-inch mark you made on the level. Therefore, you have a roof pitch of 7/12.

Consider the Slope Factor

Unless the roof is flat, you must account for the slope to get the square footage. Therefore, you’ll use the roof pitch number to find the pitch multiplier number.

The pitch multiplier will vary based on the complexity and steepness of the roof. A less severe slope will have a lower number.

It’s wise to use an online pitch multiplier table to find your figure, but here are some common ones:

• Roof pitch of 1/12 – Pitch multiplier of 1.00
• Roof pitch of 7/12 – Pitch multiplier of 1.15
• Roof pitch of 14/12 – Pitch multiplier of 1.537

Gable Roof

A gable roof is one of the most popular options. It features two sloped panels and two flat sides. For a walkable gable roof like this, the slope correction number, such as 1.3 or less, will generally be low.

Steep Roof (Complex Shapes)

Sometimes, roofs have complex shapes or are very steep. If yours is steeper than average, the figure will be more than 1.6 in most cases.

Hip Roof

A hip roof has all sides that are sloped. Therefore, you may have to calculate each pitch separately. The pitch multiplier will likely be 1.4 or less.

Calculate the Square Footage of Your Roof

Doing the math once you’ve got the roof pitch multiplier would be best. To find the total square footage of the roof, you must multiply the home’s total square footage and the pitch multiplier. The formula looks like this:

Pitch multiplier x Home square footage = Your roof square footage

For example, you have a 1,000-square-foot home with a roof pitch of 2/12. Therefore, the pitch multiplier is 1.014 (you looked that up online). The roof would measure roughly 1,014 square feet.

It’s wise to get an accurate number by splitting the roof into geometric sections. You’ll use that formula on each one.

Important Factors That Might Impact the Cost of a Roof Replacement

Square footage can impact the cost you pay for a new roof. However, here are a few other factors that might change the price:

Type of Roof

The roof type you choose can impact the price you pay. Many roof options are available, and you must consider your budget and style.

Those who want affordability will likely choose asphalt shingles. However, upgrading to something that lasts longer might be wise, so that a metal roof might be the right choice.

Metal and asphalt shingles are the most common roof types, but there are other premium materials. Tile, slate, and cedar shake can offer a more unique look, which costs more.

Time and Labor to Finish the Job

Time and labor are the main factors when determining the price of a new roof. Though you might be focused on the material cost, you will also have to pay the contractor for their work. Prices are based on experience, skill level, and how many days it takes to do the project. This varies between professionals.

Tips for Measuring the Roof Square Footage

Most homeowners don’t have simple roofs. Therefore, they can use these tips to help them get accurate measurements:

Section the Roof

When calculating roof area, you might want to get the square footage of different sections and add those measurements. This is especially helpful if the different roof area options have varying roof pitches. For example, you’ll probably have to section the roof if it has multiple sections, hip ridges, or dormers.

Remember the Dormers

Dormers are separate roof sections for the upper-level windows. Make sure you’ve factored them and other features into the calculation for square footage. You won’t have to consider pipes and chimneys because the contractor usually works around them.

Consider Overhang

Many roofs have slight overhangs over the exterior walls. Therefore, the square footage on the floor plan (or what you measure yourself) might be a little smaller than the actual square footage. To get accurate measurements, you’ll need to measure your roof overhang and add it to the width and length measurements before calculating your square footage.

DIY or Hire a Roofing Contractor

Homeowners can often estimate the approximate square footage of the roof. This is simple if they have the blueprints or floor plans. However, you may need accuracy, especially if you’re installing a metal roof or installing a new one.

Typically, working with someone who understands the roofing industry is wise. A roofing contractor can help you get the square footage because they will measure each section by hand. Likewise, they have the tools and skills to do this safely.

Please call WDR at (512) 820-6505 to request a free inspection and project quote today!

FAQs About Estimating the Roof’s Square Footage