Identify the Key Items
Set out both quotes in front of you side by side and take a look at the materials listed on each. Here’s what you’ll typically see on a metal roof quote:
Panels:
A majority of the cost of a quote will typically come from the panels. In detailed quotes, the panel type should be listed (like standing seam) and panel profile along with the color if already chosen, the metal gauge, whether it has stiffening ribs, and its width. Pictures of the specific installation details may also be shown.
Trim:
Trim is used for the more intricate parts of the roof that can’t be fully covered with a panel, such as the valleys in the roof, eaves, and the rakes. As with the panel, the gauge should be listed here along with the color.
Accessories:
There will be an assortment of accessories listed on your quote, including clips (if required), closures, vents, fasteners, and rivets. These should be listed with their quantities and the rate for each item.
Underlayment:
This is what’s going underneath your metal roof, and it’s a crucial part of the system as it acts as a secondary line of defense to protect your home’s interior. Sheffield Metals recommends Sharkskin Ultra SA peel and stick. underlayment. Though it’s a premium option, it ensures that your system will be well protected.
Sealant:
Sealant is used to fill gaps and protect the roofing system from leaking. It’s used often in the industry and will be listed commonly on contractor quotes.
Butyl Tape:
Like sealant, butyl tape is used to seal up metal to metal connections where leaks might be more of a threat, such as overlapping panels or venting areas.
Labor:
Another main source of cost will come from the labor itself, estimated on the scope of the project and the amount of time it will take to complete.
Paint Pens:
For minor scratches and marks on the panels, paint pens are used to restore the surface to its original appearance.
Along with the materials listed, you should find quantities for each product listed and the rate at which they were bought at. At the bottom of the quote, qualifications or disclaimers are typically listed.
Here are some common qualifications you’ll see:
- Pricing subject to change: The cost of metal materials often goes up and down based on the steel market.
- Oil canning is not a cause for rejection: Oil canning is an aesthetic issue — not a functional one — so this is a common disclaimer listed in quotes. Keep in mind there are methods to reduce the effects of oil canning. Picking the right panel, shorter lengths, stiffening ribs and thicker gauge steel are some things that can reduce oil canning.
- Valid for 30 days: It’s common practice for quotes to be good for 30 days — after that, pricing can change or the contractor may withdraw the offer.
- Remove the old roof: In reroofing scenarios, it can be difficult to know if there is damage underneath the existing roof, such as rotting on the roof deck. Once the roof is taken off, there may be additional deck or structural issues that need to be addressed prior to installing a new roof, which may incur additional costs.
