When to send a roofing quote
Send a quote when you have measured the roof, know the materials and can commit to a price. Because the decking is hidden, most roofing quotes are fixed for the listed work and add a clear per-sheet price for any extra decking. If you are less sure, for example on an old roof with sagging areas, send an estimate instead.
What to include in a roofing quote
- Roof size in squares, pitch and number of layers to remove.
- Materials by name: shingle or metal brand, product line and color; underlayment; ice and water shield.
- Every part of the job: tear-off, flashing, drip edge, ventilation, pipe boots, ridge cap.
- Decking policy: how many sheets are included, and the price per extra sheet.
- Exclusions: gutters, skylights, chimney repair, interior damage, unless listed.
- Warranty on materials and workmanship.
- Payment schedule, weather clause and how long the quote is valid.
- A signature line. The PDF from this tool includes one.
Write a scope the customer cannot misread
| Vague | Clear |
|---|---|
| New roof | Tear off 1 layer and install 22 squares of architectural shingles (brand, line, color) over synthetic underlayment |
| Fix flashing | Remove and replace chimney step and counter flashing; seal with roofing sealant |
| Decking as needed | Includes up to 3 sheets of 7/16 in. OSB decking; extra sheets at $90 each, only with your approval |
The clear version means no argument at the end about what “new roof” included.
When you find surprises
Rotted decking, a hidden second layer, or damaged rafters are common once the old roof is off. Take photos, show the customer, and get written approval for the extra work before closing the roof. Weather makes this urgent, so agree in advance how you will reach the customer on install day.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a roofing quote and an estimate?
A quote is a fixed price for a clearly defined roof job. An estimate is an informed guess that can change once the old roof is removed and the decking can be seen.
How do I quote decking I cannot see yet?
Include a set number of sheets in the price, and state a per-sheet price for any extra, only replaced with the customer's approval.
Should the quote name the shingle brand and color?
Yes. Naming the product line and color avoids disputes and lets the customer compare quotes fairly.
Is the roofing quote template free?
Yes. Make and download unlimited quotes. Free PDFs include a small line at the bottom saying they were made with QuoteToolbelt.