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How to Estimate a Roofing Job

How to Estimate a Roofing Job

To estimate a roofing job, break down materials, labor, and extras. Create accurate, professional estimates that win trust and keep projects profitable.

To estimate a roofing job, measure the roof area, calculate material quantities, and factor in labor costs, permits, and cleanup. A detailed estimate helps prevent underpricing, ensures profitability, and sets clear expectations for the homeowner.

Measure the Roof Accurately

Before estimating costs, you need the correct dimensions of the roof.

  • Use tools like a measuring tape, ladder, or drone for larger projects.
  • Calculate the roof area in “squares” (1 square = 100 square feet).
  • Account for roof pitch and complexity, since steep or irregular roofs require more labor and material waste.

Example: If a roof is 50 feet x 40 feet with a gable style, the area is 2,000 sq. ft. or 20 squares. With a 10% waste factor, you’ll need 22 squares of shingles.

Calculate Material Costs

Roofing materials usually account for the largest portion of the estimate.

  • Shingles or metal panels
  • Underlayment and flashing
  • Nails, adhesives, and sealants
  • Ridge caps and vents

Example table for shingles:

Item
Quantity
Unit Price
Total Cost
Asphalt Shingles
22 sq.
$100/sq.
$2,200
Underlayment
22 sq.
$20/sq.
$440
Ridge Caps & Vents
Lump sum
$300
Total Materials
$2,940

Estimate Labor Costs

Labor is often calculated per square or per hour, depending on your crew.

  • Factor in roof pitch, height, and difficulty.
  • Add time for tear-off, disposal, and cleanup.
  • Multiply hours by crew hourly rates.

Example: If a 3-person crew works 4 days (8 hours/day), that’s 96 labor hours. At $40/hour, total labor = $3,840.

Include Overhead Costs

Overhead ensures you cover your business expenses, such as:

  • Insurance and permits
  • Equipment rental (dumpsters, scaffolding, safety gear)
  • Transportation and fuel
  • Office/admin costs

Add a percentage (commonly 10–15%) to your estimate.

Example: $2,940 (materials) + $3,840 (labor) = $6,780. Overhead at 12% = $813.

Add Profit Margin

Profit margins vary depending on competition and project size, typically 10–20%.

Example: If your total costs are $7,593, adding a 15% margin = $1,139.
Final roofing estimate = $8,732.

Present a Professional Estimate

Clients expect clear, itemized estimates. Make sure to:

  • Break down materials, labor, overhead, and profit.
  • Include project timeline and payment terms.
  • Offer optional upgrades (e.g., premium shingles or extended warranties).

Pro tip: Use estimate software like DepositFix’s free estimate generator to quickly create branded, professional estimates that can be converted into invoices once approved.

Example of a Roofing Estimate

Category
Amount
Materials
$2,940
Labor
$3,840
Overhead
$813
Profit
$1,139
Total
$8,732

Create Free Estimates with DepositFix

DepositFix’s free estimate generator makes roofing estimates fast, accurate, and professional. In just minutes, you can:

  • Enter job details like labor, materials, and extras
  • Automatically calculate totals with accuracy
  • Generate polished, professional-looking estimates
  • Send estimates online for quick customer approval

With DepositFix, you save time, reduce errors, and improve your chances of closing more roofing jobs.

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