When your roof requires maintenance, repair, or replacement, it’s necessary to get in contact with a professional roofing company. However, with all the vendors available on the market today, it can be difficult to find a service provider that best suits your needs. Many roofing companies offer an estimate and a proposal that can help in the decision-making process, but what are they and how do they differ?
Roofing Proposal vs Estimate
If you’ve started working with a commercial roofing contractor, then you’ve probably already heard the terms “estimate” and “proposal” being thrown around. Because the words are used so frequently, you may be wondering if they’re interchangeable. Although the general idea behind an estimate and a proposal is similar, there are some substantial differences between the two.
Understanding the differences between these two terms can better prepare you to find the best value on the market. Here are some of the crucial distinctions you need to know.
Roofing Estimates
Many roofing contractors offer free estimates. It’s a quick and simple process that provides a glance into what the service may entail. But you’re probably wondering just how much a free estimate can really tell you.
A roofing estimate provides a general outline of the materials a contractor expects to use for your project. It also lays out general timelines for project completion and clean up, explains the contractor’s responsibilities, and details what’s covered by the contractor’s installation warranty. Finally, an estimate clarifies the details and costs of any potential add-ons you may be considering. This is everything you should look for in a roofing estimate.
What Comes After an Estimate?
Many roofing contractors try to get you to sign a contract if you’re happy with the estimate they provide. However, you should be wary of signing a roofing company contract after you’ve only seen an estimate; there can be substantial discrepancies between the projected and actual costs.
If you’re satisfied with the estimate, the natural next step is requesting a proposal. Estimates are intended to help you decide if you want to work with a particular contractor. A proposal, on the other hand, provides a more concrete picture of what a project will cost.
Roofing Proposals
If you like the direction of an estimate, it’s time to request a proposal from the contractor. A roofing proposal establishes the cost for your projects that both you and the contractor are bound to. While an estimate provides a general idea of material costs, the proposal details the costs of materials, labor, and any add-ons you may choose.
These numbers are what you are expected to pay on the completion of the project. Unlike with an estimate, the contractor is making an agreement that they won’t exceed the price specified in the proposal during the course of the project. That means if you aren’t happy with the price, you don’t have to sign a contract with the roofer. If, however, you are satisfied with the proposal, you can enter into the agreement knowing precisely what you are going to be paying.
Not all proposals are the same. Some are 10 pages; others may only be two. Be certain that the proposal outlines all of the details and critical information in writing before you proceed any further. The more you have in writing, the better protected you are from miscommunication.
Get Industry-Leading Roofing Services
Want to learn more about what an estimate or proposal may look like for your next roofing project? Reach out to C.I. Services. We are a leader in roofing solutions and our team is dedicated to providing the solutions you need.
Contact our team of experts today so we can help you get started.