Ever looked at a roofing quote and thought, “This can’t be all there is… can it?”
At Hoel Roofing, we understand how overwhelming it can be to compare estimates, especially when every contractor presents their numbers a little differently. With 9 years of experience serving Central Indiana, we’ve reviewed, written, and explained hundreds of roofing quotes. We’ve seen the details homeowners often miss, the fine print that can cost more later, and the clear breakdowns that make all the difference and save them stress down the line.
In this article, we’ll walk you through exactly what a proper roof replacement quote should include, from materials and labor to warranties and cleanup, so that you can review any estimate with confidence.
A professional roof quote should cover:
You should know exactly what product is being installed. Don’t settle for “30-year shingle” with no brand or series listed. Whether it’s GAF Timberline HDZ®, Malarkey Vista®, or Owens Corning Duration®, you should see the exact name and warranty type. If it’s not included, make sure you ask.
Removing your old roof takes time, crew power, and dump fees. That should be fully included, along with the cost of installing the new roof, not just the materials.
Look for line items covering waterproof underlayment, metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and valleys, and any improvements to attic ventilation (which may affect your roof’s lifespan and warranty).
A complete quote should include post-job cleanup, such as removing debris, using magnetic nail sweeps, and hauling away old shingles.
These vary by city or county, but a reputable contractor will include this in the quote (or clearly itemize it).
There are two layers of protection:
Even the most detailed quote can hide surprise expenses. Here’s what to check for before you sign:
The wood sheathing under your shingles may be rotten, warped, or damaged. This may need to be replaced to ensure that your new shingles hold. Unless it has previously been established that you do not need a decking replacement, if decking replacement is not included in the quote, you may face a sudden, high-cost change order once the old roof is removed.
Tip: Ask if the contractor includes a per-sheet price for replacement and how they determine when it’s needed.
Some contractors intentionally underbid to win the job, then add “unexpected” charges mid-project. Compare quotes line by line and request a fixed-price agreement or clear terms for allowable cost changes.
A manufacturer’s warranty usually covers materials only if they’re installed according to strict guidelines. If your contractor isn’t certified for the brand they’re installing, the material warranty could be void.Confirm both workmanship and manufacturer warranty terms are in writing.
Unrealistically low quotes often leave out crucial components like underlayment, ventilation, or ice/water shield. These “invisible” elements protect your home from leaks and extend the life of your roof; skipping them will cost you far more in future repairs.
The lowest number on the page doesn’t always mean the best deal. Here’s how to make sure you’re comparing fairly:
Two quotes might both say “architectural shingles,” but one could be a budget brand with a shorter lifespan, while the other is a premium brand with a longer warranty.
Ask for the exact manufacturer, product line, and warranty length for each quote.
Every quote should clearly state whether it includes:
Installer’s workmanship warranty covers labor mistakes, while the manufacturer’s warranty covers defective materials.
A longer or more comprehensive warranty can be worth paying more for, especially if a certified installer backs it for that brand.
One company might quote $9,000 and another $11,000, but the higher quote could include:
In other words, paying a little more upfront can mean fewer repairs, less stress, and a roof that lasts longer.
If one quote includes something the other doesn’t, ask the lower-priced contractor what it would cost to add it. This ensures you’re not making a decision based on missing information.
A roof replacement quote should give you complete clarity, no surprises, no hidden fees, and no rushed decisions. That’s why we created our Free Roofing Estimate Tool, so you can get an accurate ballpark cost for your roof replacement in minutes without waiting for a sales visit.
When you’re ready to move forward, we can turn your online estimate into a detailed, written proposal. We’ll walk you through it, answer every question, and ensure you feel confident in your decision, whether you choose us or not.
If you’re comparing options, check out our guide on ‘Who Are the Best Roofing Companies in Indiana?‘ to see other reputable contractors in the area.
Toyosi Ogunsola is the Content Manager at Hoel Roofing & Remodeling in Rushville, IN, where she oversees the creation of educational, trustworthy content about roofing, remodeling, and home improvement. With a master’s degree in Emerging Media Design and Development and a background spanning content strategy, UX research, and digital marketing, Toyosi combines data-driven insights with clear, engaging writing to help homeowners make informed decisions. Passionate about translating complex roofing topics into helpful resources, she works closely with Hoel’s team of roofing experts to ensure every piece of content is accurate, practical, and user-focused.
