How Do You Read a Roofing Estimate in the Treasure Valley?
A roofing estimate is easy to read once you break it into six parts: the scope of work, the named materials, the decking terms, the edge and vent details, the permit and cleanup items, and the payment and warranty terms. Dodd Roofing and Exteriors writes every one of these out line by line for homes in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Eagle, Star, and Caldwell, and any contractor you consider should do the same. A one line quote that says "re-roof, architectural shingles" tells you almost nothing, and it makes two bids impossible to compare fairly.
What should the scope of work say?
The scope should state whether the old roof is torn off to the deck or covered over, how many roofing squares the job covers (one square is 100 square feet), and the pitch of the roof. Steeper slopes take more labor and safety gear, so pitch changes the price. If one bid covers a tear off and another does not, they are not the same job. Our guide on roofing over existing shingles in Idaho explains why a full tear off is usually the better choice. For a walk through of the job itself, see what to expect during a roof replacement.
Which materials should be named on the estimate?
Look for the shingle manufacturer, the exact product line, and the color. "Architectural shingles" could mean a basic line or a premium one. The estimate should also name the underlayment, starter strips, ridge caps, and vents. Be careful with the phrase "or equal," which lets a crew substitute a cheaper product without telling you. If you are unsure about underlayment, read synthetic versus felt underlayment before you compare bids.
How should decking be priced?
Nobody knows how much rotted or damaged decking is under the shingles until the tear off. A fair estimate sets a per sheet price for replacement and says how many sheets, if any, are included. Plank decking on older North End and Boise Bench homes is handled differently than plywood or OSB on newer Meridian, Star, and Eagle homes, so ask which type the crew expects to find. We cover this in detail in roof decking replacement in the Treasure Valley.
What local details belong on a Treasure Valley estimate?
Boise gets only about a foot of precipitation a year, but summer highs often pass 100 degrees, so UV wear and attic heat matter more here than rain. Ask whether the estimate includes a ventilation check and new vents where needed. Many two story homes in Meridian and Eagle have shingle roofs that meet stucco or brick walls, and those spots need step flashing and kickout flashing, not a bead of caulk. In the foothills, a Class A fire rated assembly may be required, and some subdivisions need HOA approval before work starts. Each of those should appear as its own line, not as a surprise later.
What about permits, licensing, and cleanup?
The estimate should say who pulls the permit, since Boise, Meridian, and Nampa each run their own process. It should also confirm the contractor is registered with the State of Idaho and carries general liability and workers compensation coverage. Ask for the certificate of insurance, not just a promise. Cleanup should list debris haul off and a magnetic nail sweep of the lawn and driveway.
How do payment terms and warranties compare?
Be cautious of any contractor who wants full payment before work begins. A modest deposit with the balance due at completion is a common arrangement. Then compare the two warranties: the manufacturer covers materials, and the contractor covers workmanship, and the length of each should be written down. Our list of questions to ask a roofing contractor is a good companion, and our financing options can spread out the cost if the total is more than you planned for.
How do you get an itemized estimate from Dodd?
Call (208) 295-9421 and we will schedule a free inspection and give you a written, itemized estimate you can compare line by line. You can also browse our homeowner guide library for more plain answers to common roofing questions.
Comments