Roofing estimate template
A clear roofing estimate helps contractors win jobs by providing homeowners with a thorough understanding of the work to be done and the costs involved. By including all necessary details, contractors can build trust with potential clients and demonstrate their professionalism. Below is a real, itemized sample you can copy, plus how to measure, what drives cost, and common mistakes.
Sample roofing estimate
Job: Tear off and replace a 2,400 sq ft (24 squares) asphalt shingle roof on a single-story home, 6/12 pitch: replace 3 sheets of rotted decking, synthetic underlayment, ice & water shield at valleys, drip edge, ridge vent, 3 pipe boots, haul-off and permit.
Location: Tampa, FL · Finish level: Standard
Scope of work
Line items
| Description | Amount | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | |||
| Asphalt shingles | $2,448.00 | ||
| Synthetic underlayment | $720.00 | ||
| Ice & water shield | $180.00 | ||
| Drip edge | $1,200.00 | ||
| Ridge vent | $576.00 | ||
| Pipe boots | $72.00 | ||
| Labor | |||
| Tear off and replacement | $11,520.00 | ||
| Materials | |||
| Decking replacement | $342.00 | ||
| Disposal | |||
| Dumpster, haul-off & disposal | $780.00 | ||
| Permits | |||
| Roofing permit | $360.00 | ||
Timeline
Assumptions
- single-story home with accessible roof
Exclusions
- interior repairs
- additional decking replacement
Illustrative sample for a standard job in Tampa, FL, including a 20% markup. Prices vary widely by market, season, access and material choice, so always price from your own supplier quotes and labor rates.
How to measure a roofing job
Measure the footprint including overhangs, multiply by the pitch factor (6/12 ≈ 1.118, 8/12 ≈ 1.202, 12/12 ≈ 1.414) and divide by 100 to get squares. Add about 10% waste for a simple gable and 15% or more for hips and valleys. Measure eaves and rakes for drip edge, and the ridge length for ridge vent.
What every roofing estimate should include
- Project Overview
- Scope of Work
- Materials List
- Labor Costs
- Permit and Inspection Fees
- Warranty and Guarantee Information
- Payment Terms and Schedule
What drives roofing cost
- Materials
- The cost of roofing materials, such as shingles, underlayment, and flashing, can vary depending on the type and quality chosen. This cost driver is critical to the overall estimate.
- Labor
- Labor costs are a significant factor in roofing estimates, as they depend on the number of workers, their level of expertise, and the time required to complete the job.
- Permits and Inspections
- Obtaining necessary permits and scheduling inspections can add to the overall cost of the project, and should be factored into the estimate.
- Removal and Disposal
- The cost of removing and disposing of old roofing materials can be substantial, and should be included in the estimate to avoid surprise costs.
- Specialized Equipment
- The use of specialized equipment, such as lifts or scaffolding, may be required for certain roofing jobs, and the cost of renting or owning this equipment should be factored into the estimate.
Common roofing estimating mistakes
- Failing to account for all necessary materials and labor costs can lead to underestimating the project's total cost.
- Not including a detailed scope of work can cause confusion and disputes over what is included in the estimate.
- Neglecting to factor in permits and inspections can result in unexpected costs and delays.
- Not providing a clear payment schedule and terms can lead to misunderstandings and payment disputes.
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Describe the job and get itemized line items priced for your area, then brand it, mark it up and send a link your client can sign.
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Roofing estimate FAQ
How many bundles of shingles are in a square?
Most 3-tab and architectural shingles come 3 bundles per square (100 sq ft), but some heavier designer lines are 4 or 5. Always check the manufacturer's coverage per bundle before ordering.
Should decking replacement be priced up front?
List decking as a per-sheet unit price (e.g. 'replace rotted OSB, per 4x8 sheet') with an allowance for a few sheets. You can't see it until tear-off, and a unit price avoids a dispute when you find more.
What is the best way to determine the cost of materials?
The best way to determine the cost of materials is to get quotes from suppliers or manufacturers, and to factor in any discounts or promotions that may be available. It's also important to consider the quality and durability of the materials, as well as any warranties or guarantees that may be offered.
How do I calculate labor costs for a roofing job?
To calculate labor costs, you'll need to determine the number of workers required for the job, their level of expertise, and the time required to complete the work. You can then multiply the total number of hours worked by the hourly wage of each worker to get the total labor cost.
What is the importance of including a warranty and guarantee in the estimate?
Including a warranty and guarantee in the estimate provides assurance to the homeowner that the work will be done correctly and that any defects or issues will be addressed. This can help to build trust and increase the chances of winning the job.