Blog · Ohio & Michigan
How to compare roofing quotes line by line
Two roofing quotes can differ by thousands of dollars for different work. Here is how to line them up so you compare the same roof, the same scope and the same warranty.
By Jonathan Blake · · 3 min read
- Line up the roof area in squares first. Different sizes mean different jobs.
- Compare the full scope line by line: tear-off, deck repair, underlayment, ice barrier, flashing, ventilation, permits.
- Know the difference between a manufacturer warranty and a workmanship warranty.
A common reason homeowners end up disappointed isn’t picking the wrong company. It’s comparing quotes that weren’t for the same job. Here’s how to line them up.
Start with the roof size
Every quote should say how many squares it’s based on (1 square = 100 sq ft of roof) and how the roof was measured. If one quote says 24 squares and another says 30, you’re comparing different jobs. Check both against our roof size calculator or a measurement report.
Line up the scope
Put each quote in a column and check off:
| Item | Quote A | Quote B |
|---|---|---|
| Full tear-off (how many layers) | ||
| Deck repair: price per sheet, and how you approve it | ||
| Underlayment product | ||
| Ice barrier at eaves and valleys | ||
| Drip edge | ||
| Flashing: chimney, walls, skylights (new or reused) | ||
| Ventilation: ridge vent and intake | ||
| Shingle product line (not just the brand) | ||
| Permit included | ||
| Cleanup, magnet sweep, disposal | ||
| Manufacturer warranty and workmanship warranty |
Blank boxes are questions to ask, not reasons to pick the cheaper quote.
The line that surprises people: decking
Nobody can see the deck until the old roof comes off. A good quote gives a price per sheet for replacement decking and says how you’ll be told before it’s used. A quote without one isn’t cheaper; it just hasn’t priced that risk yet.
Warranties aren’t all the same
Manufacturer warranties cover the product, and their terms can depend on which components are installed. The workmanship warranty covers the install and comes from the contractor. Ask for both in writing.
Checking the contractor
Ask for proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance that covers the length of your job. NRCA’s homeowner guidance also suggests confirming a permanent place of business. In Michigan, check the contractor’s LARA license. In Ohio, ask your city what registration it requires.
Getting an early budget first
If you want a feel for the budget before anyone visits, the replacement planner gives a clearly labeled early range for architectural shingle roofs, plus a scope checklist you can hand to every contractor.
A side-by-side checklist you can print
| Line item | Quote A | Quote B | Quote C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roof area (squares) and how measured | |||
| Layers removed | |||
| Deck repair: price per sheet, how approved | |||
| Shingle brand and product line | |||
| Underlayment and ice barrier (where) | |||
| Flashing: new or reused (chimney, walls, vents) | |||
| Drip edge, starter, ridge cap | |||
| Ventilation changes | |||
| Permit and who pulls it | |||
| Cleanup, magnet sweep, disposal | |||
| Manufacturer warranty tier | |||
| Workmanship warranty (years, transferable?) | |||
| Start date, duration, payment schedule | |||
| Total price |
Red flags in a roofing quote
- A single price with no line items.
- No mention of the roof area or how it was measured.
- “Deck repair as needed” with no unit price.
- Pressure to sign today, or a price that is only good if you sign now.
- A request for full payment before work starts.
Get a free inspection first
If you are not sure the roof needs replacing, start with an inspection. Our roof replacement planner gives you a scope list to bring to it, and you can request a free, no-obligation inspection from any page on this site.
Free download: print the roofing quote comparison checklist (PDF) and the hiring a roofer checklist (PDF).
Run your numbers
Quick roof estimate
Provisional planning range (our setting, not a quote or market average). Real prices depend on condition, access and scope.
What this estimate does and doesn't cover
- It all depends on the roof. Condition, material, pitch, number of layers, access and local code can move the price well outside this range. Treat it as a first budget number, not a price.
- Roof area is a rough guess. We turn living area into roof area using your stories, a 10% allowance for overhangs and your pitch. Garages, porches, dormers, valleys and complex shapes are not counted. A measurement report or an on-site measurement will differ.
- The dollar band is our own provisional setting, informed by published guides. It is not a verified Ohio or Michigan market average, not a contractor quote and not an offer.
- Assumes a straightforward replacement: one layer torn off, standard underlayment, ice barrier at eaves, flashing and cleanup.
- Not included: rotted decking, extra layers, framing or structural repair, major ventilation changes, chimney work, skylights, gutters, permits, steep or difficult access, and insurance-related work.
- Repairs are not priced. Leaks, storm damage and small repairs need an inspection.
- Stay off the roof. Measure from the ground or plans, and get a written proposal from a licensed, insured contractor before you decide.
See how we set ranges and our disclosures.
Questions readers ask
How many roofing quotes should I get?
Three written quotes on the same scope is a good rule. More than that is fine for big or complex projects, but the point is comparable quotes, not the most quotes.
Why is one roofing quote so much lower than the others?
Usually because it leaves something out: fewer squares, no tear-off of a second layer, no ice barrier upgrade, reused flashing, or no allowance for deck repair. Line up the scope before you compare prices.
What is a fair price for deck replacement?
It varies, which is why proposals should state a price per sheet of decking and how you will approve it before the work is done.
Should I pay a deposit?
Many contractors ask for one, often to order materials. Get the amount, what it covers and the payment schedule in the written contract, and avoid paying in full before the work is done.
Sources
- Selecting a professional roofing contractor, National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)