Why reading your estimate matters

Two estimates for the same house can look similar in total price but be completely different in what's included. A $10,500 estimate using premium materials with full permits is a better value than a $9,800 estimate skipping ice and water shield, using felt paper instead of synthetic underlayment, and not pulling a permit. The only way to compare fairly is to know what each line item means.

The key line items — what they mean

Roof size (squares)

One roofing square equals 100 square feet of roof surface. A typical 2,000 sqft ranch house usually has a roof of 22–28 squares depending on pitch and overhang. Your estimate should state the measured square count. If it doesn't, ask — you're entitled to know what you're paying per square.

Shingles — brand and product name

The estimate must name the specific shingle product: "GAF Timberline HDZ" or "Owens Corning Duration" — not just "30-year architectural shingles." Product names matter because they determine the warranty tier available. A generic description allows substitution of inferior products.

Underlayment

Look for the specific type: "GAF FeltBuster synthetic underlayment" is meaningfully different from "15 lb felt paper." Synthetic underlayment is stronger, more tear-resistant, and doesn't absorb water. If the estimate just says "underlayment" without specifying, ask.

Ice and water shield

Should specify the brand (GAF WeatherWatch or Grace Vycor Pro) and where it's installed — "at all eaves and valleys" is correct for Northeast Ohio. If it's not listed at all, it may not be included. This is a critical item — do not accept a quote that omits it.

Starter strip

A dedicated starter strip (not cut-down shingles) should be listed. GAF Pro-Start or equivalent. Omitting starter strip is a common installation shortcut.

Ridge cap

Should specify the product: GAF Seal-A-Ridge or TimberTex. Not "ridge cap shingles" — the product name matters for warranty eligibility.

Ridge vent

Should be listed by name (GAF Cobra, Air Vent ShingleVent II, etc.) and linear footage. If ridge vent is not listed, ask how exhaust ventilation will be handled.

Drip edge

Metal drip edge along all eaves and rakes. Should be listed — often omitted in budget quotes.

Flashings

Should state "all flashings replaced" — at chimney, walls, pipe boots, and valleys. "Reseal existing flashings" is not the same as replacement and is a weaker specification.

Permit

Should be explicitly included. If the estimate says "permit by owner" or doesn't mention it, the contractor is either not pulling permits or expecting you to handle it. Both are problems.

Dumpster and cleanup

Should be included. Separate charges for dumpster or debris disposal are occasionally added after the fact by contractors who don't disclose them upfront.

Red flags to watch for: Single-line estimates with no itemization. Estimates that reference "standard materials" without naming products. No mention of permit. No mention of ice and water shield. "Reseal" rather than "replace" for flashings. Request for large upfront payment before any work starts.

What Atlas Roofing's estimates include

Every Atlas Roofing estimate is written, itemized by line item, specifies every material by brand and product, includes permit, dumpster, and cleanup, and states the warranty terms clearly. We provide estimates at the conclusion of every free inspection — no obligation required.