Is It Attic Condensation or a Roof Leak? What to look for.
November 2, 2026
Two roof replacement estimates can cover the same Holland house and differ by thousands of dollars. Often the difference is buried in one line about what happens after tear-off. Grand Rapids recorded seven straight days with no measurable precipitation, May 25–31. A dry stretch is a good time to spread the proposals out on the kitchen table and settle those questions before a crew needs a decision.
Put both contractors on the same roof
Start by checking that both drawings include the garage, porch and any additions you expect reroofed. A low-slope porch may need a different covering than the main roof. If one bid includes the porch and the other just says “house,” the totals are already answering different questions.
Then look for three numbers. How many layers are included in tear-off? How much replacement decking, if any, is in the base price? What is the installed price per additional sheet or board? Ask who will show you photos and get approval before that extra work proceeds. A vague allowance makes even an otherwise careful estimate hard to compare.
Compare roof replacement estimates at the edges
Read the part about the chimney, sidewalls and vent pipes. One contractor may price new flashing while another plans to reuse pieces that pass inspection. Ask how each will handle a joint hidden behind siding. Also ask how intake and exhaust ventilation will work together on your particular house. A ridge vent listed as a line item tells you little about where air will enter.
Get the handoff in writing
Look for disposal, driveway protection, cleanup and who returns if you find loose debris. Get the shingle product name, the manufacturer warranty terms, and the contractor’s workmanship coverage separately. Ask what paperwork you receive and who completes any required registration.
Before choosing a start date, ask how the crew will protect exposed decking if rain interrupts the job. Our roof replacement timeline walks through that part of the installation. If you want a second set of eyes on the scope, Horizon’s residential roofing page explains how to arrange an inspection. Have both proposals handy and circle the items where the wording differs.
