Why This Costs Roofers Money
Every roofing job has costs that don't make it onto the estimate. Some are small—$50 here, $75 there. But across dozens of jobs per year, these forgotten line items add up to thousands in lost profit.
This isn't about being greedy. It's about pricing accurately so you can run a sustainable business and deliver quality work.
The Core Breakdown: 12 Add-Ons You're Missing
Drip edge and starter strip — Often assumed "included," but they cost money
Ice and water shield — Required in many climates, rarely quoted separately
Pipe boot replacements — Old boots crack; new ones should be charged
Chimney and skylight re-flashing — Complex work, often underpriced
Plywood/OSB replacement — Unknown scope until tear-off, often eaten
Ridge vent installation — Labor-intensive, frequently bundled incorrectly
Valley metal — Specialty material, specialty install
Step flashing at walls — Time-consuming and easy to underestimate
Gutter apron/drip flashing — Small part, real labor
Haul-off and dump fees — Varies by weight and location
Permits and inspections — Administrative cost, not free
Equipment rental — Lifts, scaffolding, specialty toolsWhen This Applies
New construction and reroofs
Residential and commercial
Insurance and retail jobs
Steep-slope and low-slope systemsWhat Happens If You Don't Account for This
Margin erosion on every job
Crew frustration from "free" add-on work
Cash flow problems from unrecovered costs
Underbidding competitors who price correctlyRelated Cost Items to Double-Check
Starter strip and drip edge per linear foot
Permit fees by jurisdiction
Dump fees by tonnage
Equipment rental day ratesWho Typically Misses This
New contractors still learning job costing
Residential-only roofers moving into commercial
Volume-focused operations that template estimates
Insurance adjusters who set the initial scopePractical Takeaway
Before your next estimate, run through this list and ask: "Am I charging for this?" If not, add it as a line item—even if it's small. Your margins will thank you.
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💡 Save this for your next estimate — This is one of the many add-ons contractors forget to include in their quotes.
💡 This is one of the many add-ons contractors forget to include in their quotes.