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Are you a homeowner needing a roofing estimate? Or is it a situation where you should secure a roof inspection? Is there a difference between an estimate and an inspection? Or are these two terms interchangeable? At Alan’s Roofing, we offer professional all-point inspections and roof estimates with inspections. Whether you require a roof replacement estimate or need a comprehensive roof inspection, we’ll assist you.

What Is A Roofing Estimate?

A roof estimate (i.e., bid or quote) is generally a written document the roofing company provides to the homeowner. Most roofers offer this service free of charge and with no obligation for the homeowner to commit until reaching a final agreement. Here are the primary components of a standard roof quote:

Detail Of Various Expenses

How much will this roofing project cost? As a homeowner, you should expect a ballpark estimate of various expenses, including materials, labor, permits, and any other charges (disposal fees, dumpster costs, etc.). If you need multiple bids, you can compare alternatives based on pricing and other factors.

Estimated Project Timeline

This element is essential to setting realistic expectations. Most roof repair or replacement projects require a time-intensive effort and are inconvenient for the homeowner. A responsible contractor will be sensitive to a customer’s needs and provide an approximate time frame for completing the project.

Identification Of Material Choices

If the parties have discussed different roofing materials, the estimate should incorporate pricing based on each alternative. Naturally, not all roofing products cost the same. As a homeowner, you need a fair estimate of the likely expense depending on your chosen product.

Scope Of Work To Be Performed

This aspect of the estimate will tie together the other components. It explains the details of what work will occur and, by extension, what may fall outside the project parameters. Will the roofer remove old materials? Will they install new underlayment? What will the cleanup process look like?

Professional roof inspector assessing a roof while standing on a ladder.

The Elements Of A Roof Inspection

A roof inspection is more than just a surface assessment of the roof’s condition. Many other aspects play a vital role:

Exterior Inspection

A reputable inspector will climb the roof using appropriate safety equipment. The professional will closely scrutinize the roof for evidence of existing or potential problems. A loose shingle, dented flashing, cracked caulking, or broken seal – each contributing factor may cause a roof leak or other issues, such as pest infestation or mold formation.

Infrared Inspection

Infrared technology detects actual or possible moisture intrusion by observing heat variations. An area with a higher mass will likely retain heat longer, indicating moisture retention in that specific space. An established inspector uses thermal imaging via an infrared camera to capture images of the roof to identify problem areas.

Interior Inspection

Many roofing issues originate or spill over inside a home. Additionally, interior spaces often provide crucial information to assist the inspector with understanding the scope of the problem. Expect this process to involve thoroughly assessing the walls, ceilings, attic spaces, and hidden or inaccessible areas for signs of resulting damage.

Material Inspection

Many roofing products come with a material warranty. Homes also could have comprehensive warranty coverage. Performing a material inspection enables the roof inspector to thoroughly assess the condition of roofing components to determine if defects exist. This measure is essential for the homeowner to activate a remedy using the warranty safeguard.

Close-up of damaged asphalt shingles curling on a roof.

Structural Inspection

The structural integrity of a home, including the corresponding roofing system, dictates the roof’s overall condition. The house’s well-being could be jeopardized if any component becomes compromised. For example, rotted rafters or trusses, sagging ceilings, or tilting exterior walls may cause a roof to bow or become uneven and risk collapse.

Visual Inspection

Most roofing companies will start with a ground-level assessment of your roof’s condition. Unfortunately, this effort is the bare minimum. To understand the situation, a qualified roof inspector must climb the roof or make additional efforts. Never settle for a visual inspection as sufficient to fully understand a potential or actual issue.

Workmanship Inspection

Poor craftsmanship will often cause roofing problems. Unfortunately, homeowners may not know that they have received substandard labor for many years. However, a trained inspector will know how to identify inadequate installation or repair of roofing components, such as flashing, venting, caulking, and sublayers, including underlayment.

Hiring An Expert Roofing Professional

A basic roof inspection is generally recommended before securing a roof repair or replacement estimate. That way, the homeowner can make an informed decision regarding the best course of action.

At Alan’s Roofing, we possess the training, experience, and certification to offer roof inspection services. We also provide a free written roof estimate based on our recommendations.

Contact Alans Roofing today to learn more about our roofing services or to schedule your inspection or estimate.