When there is damage to your roof, you want someone to come out and fix it. However, before you start any work, you need a professional roofing company to check out the damage. You might think that a roofing estimate is the same as a roofing inspection, but they are two different processes. Those “free estimates” sound great, but often the contractors miss that hidden damage to your roof. Estimates only scratch the surface. If you need someone to check out your roof, you should know the difference between an estimate and an inspection. With this guide, you will understand what separates these two terms so that you can determine which one is the better match for your home.
What Is A Roofing Estimate?
Many reputable roofing companies provide a roofing estimate for your home. These free services often help you figure out the costs of a new roofing project. Many homeowners request a roofing estimate when the roof has sustained damage and needs a replacement. The homeowner calls a professional roofing company to evaluate the roof and offer a price quote for the job.
During a roofing estimate, you want to ask some specific questions about the costs. You can price out various options for your roofing project. In some cases, the roofer will go up to the roof and visually inspect it for any issues. At this time, the contractor gives you an estimated price for how much the project will cost you. While this might sound like an excellent service, it is limited to an estimated guess of your total costs. If you accept the offer and the company finds additional damages, your quoted price will increase. Since the price is a guess of the expenses, you should always plan for any unsuspected price changes.
What Is A Roofing Inspection?
With a roofing estimate, the contractor quotes a project without knowing the full extent of the damage. If you want a clearer picture of your price, you might want to opt for a roofing inspection. The roofing inspector visits your home and checks all those vital parts of your roof. Your rafters, ceiling, and shingles are all examined by the inspector. In a few cases, your insurance company pays for the roofing inspection. Some inspections are more thorough than others. However, any inspection will check for problems with your home, such as mildew, mold, leaks, water damage, and broken shingles. The inspector will often visit your attic to see if you have problems with the insulation and ventilation.
Do I Need An Estimate Or Inspection?
If your roof is damaged, what is the next step? In a single year, about 5 million rooftops need to be replaced. Many homeowners file a claim with their insurance companies, and the policy will reimburse the cost of the repairs or replacement. For those homes with 20-year-old roofs, your insurance could deny your claim. Before any claim is approved, the insurance company will send someone out to prepare a full-detailed inspection of the roof and adjoining structures.
What does this mean for you? If you want your homeowner’s policy to pay for damages, you need to keep up on its regular maintenance. A roofing inspection is part of your yearly maintenance plan. However, if you have damage to your roof that needs repairs, you should schedule an estimate. With an estimate, you can put a claim in with your insurance company and get the repairs done to your roof.
Most contractors and roofing companies agree that your roof needs to be inspected every three years. For some added peace of mind, you might want to book an inspection every other year. You want to make sure your roof is ready for those intense weather seasons in the summer and winter. These inspections are vital if you live in an area that receives massive amounts of snow and rain. Many insurance companies count an inspection as part of your preventative maintenance. On the other hand, an estimate is usually not part of your roof’s maintenance program.
Are There Free Inspections?
If you want something done correctly, it will probably cost you a few dollars. This is also true when choosing between an inspection and an estimate. You should use a free estimate to find the best deal for your roofing project. It is important to be wary of any company that offers a free inspection. In some cases, the free inspection is just a marketing ploy. You might be told that your roof needs more work than necessary. Some free inspections are not trustworthy. If you need an inspection for your roof, make sure to pay for one from a reputable company. Along with that, many insurance companies will often disregard those “free” inspections.
You have to remember that a free inspection is the same as a free estimate. These freebies are more than likely a sales pitch. If you want to know the truth about your roof, you need to pay a professional roofing company to inspect your home’s structure. In the end, you will have a better idea about the safety of your roof.
Now That You Know The Difference
A roofing estimate is great when you know what is wrong with your roof. If you want to get a few quotes for your project, then a roofing estimate is perfectly fine for your needs. However, if you don’t know what is going on or want to maintain your roof, you need to schedule an inspection. These inspections are meant to find those hidden problems. When you schedule an inspection, you can resolve those issues before they turn into more significant problems for your home.
Find A Roofer Near Me
If you want to schedule a professional estimate of your roof, make sure to reach out to RGB Construction. No one in South Jersey can match our dedication to quality, professionalism, and customer service. We can help with all your roofing needs. You can schedule a consultation by calling the office at 856-264-9093.
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