Not all roofing estimates are created equal. One might be a detailed 3-page breakdown with materials and warranties, while another could be a vague one-liner: "Roof replacement - $12,000."
If you’re collecting quotes, this guide will help you compare them apples-to-apples and avoid costly surprises. Nest Exteriors believes in total transparency — so here’s how to spot a strong estimate (and some red flags to watch out for).
✅ What a Good Roofing Estimate Should Include
Use this guide to identify what to look for in each of the following sections of a qualify roofing estimate. If one of these sections is missing or missing information, ask the roofer to provide it for you.
Scope of Work
What to Look For
Detailed breakdown of what's included: tear-off, disposal, materials, underlayment, flashing, ventilation, etc.
Why It Matters
Prevents surprises and ensures you're getting a full-system replacement, not just shingles.
Materials
What to Look For
Specific brands and product lines (e.g. CertainTeed Landmark PRO), quantities, and colors.
Why It Matters
Allows you to compare quality and ensures warranty eligibility.
Underlayment
What to Look For
Specifies synthetic vs. felt, and where ice & water shield will be installed.
Why It Matters
Critical for water protection and code compliance.
Ventilation Plan
What to Look For
Mentions ridge vents, soffits, or attic airflow strategy.
Why It Matters
Ventilation affects shingle lifespan, energy bills, and warranty validity.
Flashing
What to Look For
Notes whether flashing will be reused, replaced, or upgraded (step flashing, chimney flashing, etc.).
Why It Matters
Reusing old flashing is a cost-cutting shortcut that can cause leaks.
Warranty Info
What to Look For
Manufacturer and workmanship warranties, with timeframes and coverage details.
Why It Matters
Peace of mind and protection if issues arise post-install.
Cleanup & Disposal
What to Look For
Includes hauling away old roofing, magnet sweep for nails, and final walkthrough.
Why It Matters
Prevents your yard from becoming a construction zone.
Timeline
What to Look For
Estimated project start and completion dates.
Why It Matters
Helps you plan and avoid delays or weather-related issues.
License & Insurance Info
What to Look For
Contractor license number, insurance proof, and permit process.
Why It Matters
Protects you from liability and ensures a legitimate business.
🚩 Common Red Flags
- ❌ "Shingles only" pricing with no mention of underlayment or ventilation
- ❌ No brand names or product types listed
- ❌ One-liner quotes without scope of work or labor details
- ❌ Verbal-only quotes (always get it in writing)
- ❌ Pressure to sign immediately without time to compare
- ❌ No mention of attic inspection
- ❌ Subcontractor names not disclosed
📝 Sample Estimate Snapshot
BAD ESTIMATE:
- New roof: $9,800
- Labor included
⚠️ No material details, scope, ventilation, or warranty info.
GREAT ESTIMATE (Nest Style):
- Remove & dispose existing shingles, inspect decking
- Install CertainTeed Landmark PRO shingles (color: Moire Black)
- Ice & water shield in valleys and eaves
- Synthetic underlayment (CertainTeed RoofRunner)
- Ridge vent and soffit ventilation installation
- Replace all flashing around chimney, walls, skylights
- 50-year manufacturer warranty + 10-year workmanship warranty
- Project timeline: Start May 5, complete by May 7
- Total: $13,900
✅ Clear, complete, and worth every penny.
🛠️ Nest Exteriors Promise
When we provide a roofing estimate, we walk you through every component and answer every question. We don’t believe in cutting corners — we believe in building trust.
Before you commit the time schedule an appointment for a full estimate, we offer an Instant Quote to help you in your decision making.
Get an Instant Quote Now - Book Your Appointment for a Full Estimate Later
We’ll help you make the confident choice — even if it’s not with us.
Nest Exteriors | Roofing. Siding. Gutters. Solar. Peace of Mind.
