Back to Blog Consumer Protection Getting Multiple Roofing Estimates in San Antonio: How to Compare Apples to Apples
Mark WhiteFebruary 28, 20265 min read You did the responsible thing: you got three roofing estimates. And now you're more confused than before. One is $8,000, another is $12,000, and the third is $17,000. Are you getting ripped off by the expensive one? Is the cheap one cutting corners? How do you possibly compare these?
The differences usually come down to five variables. Here's how to decode them.
Variable 1: Materials Specified
This is the biggest driver of cost differences. Compare the exact shingle product specified: is it a basic 25-year architectural ($90/square), a Class 4 impact-resistant ($120/square), or a designer line ($140+/square)? The difference across a 25-square roof: $750-$1,250 in materials alone.
Also check: what underlayment (felt vs. synthetic), how much ice-and-water shield, and whether drip edge is included. These 'small' items can add up to $500-$1,000.
Variable 2: Scope of Work
Is tear-off included? (It should be.) Is deck repair included, or is it 'additional if needed'? Are pipe boot collars being replaced? Is ridge vent being installed or are they reusing old box vents? Are they replacing the gutter apron?
A quote that seems cheaper may exclude work that the more expensive quote includes. Line-by-line comparison is the only way to know.
Variable 3: Warranty Offered
A 1-year workmanship warranty vs. a 10-year workmanship warranty has real value. The 10-year warranty means the company expects to still be here in 10 years and stands behind their work. What does a 1-year warranty tell you?
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Try the Instant Estimator →Variable 4: Insurance and Licensing
Companies carrying proper general liability, workers' comp, and business insurance have higher overhead than uninsured operators. This is reflected in pricing, and it's protection you need. An uninsured roofer is a liability lawsuit waiting to happen on your property.
Variable 5: Overhead and Experience
Established companies with offices, trained crews, project managers, and quality control systems cost more to operate than a guy with a truck. You're paying for reliability, accountability, and the ability to honor that warranty.
At Legacy, we welcome comparison shopping. Bring us any competitor's written estimate, and we'll walk through the differences line by line. Call (210) 272-7272.
Got a roofing question? Something keeping you up at night? (Besides that mysterious dripping sound?) Email me personally at mwhite@legacytx.com. I read and answer every single one.
MW Mark White
Owner, Legacy Home Improvements · San Antonio since 1999
Mark has been in the roofing business for over 25 years. He personally inspects homes, works with insurance adjusters, and answers every email at mwhite@legacytx.com.
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