If you’re in the process of getting roofing quotes, you may have noticed prices can vary significantly. So what actually goes into roofing costs, and how do you know if you’re getting a fair quote? If you’re here for a price guide on different projects, this probably isn’t the best blog for you. If you want to be armed with the knowledge to determine if any roofing quotes you receive are fair and accurate, then you’re in the right place.
This guide will break down the key factors that determine the cost of roofing so you, as a homeowner, can be best prepared when choosing a qualified roofing company.
Three Key Factors That Affect Roofing Costs
First, we’ll cover what goes into costing a roofing project. A licensed roofer will provide a quotation based on three key factors (all starting with a site visit of your home). Understanding these as a first step is the best way homeowners can make an informed decision.
1. The Quality and Amount Material Required
The size and complexity of the project impact the amount of materials needed; whether it’s tile replacements, bedding, or pointing, the more materials required, the higher the cost. Additionally, the quality of materials plays a significant role in pricing. For example, terracotta roof tiles are more expensive than concrete tiles.
2. Time & Labour Required
This generally comes down to the severity of the issue and the complexity of the repair. Roofing is completed by qualified professionals who work (typically in pairs or more) to ensure the job is done safely and efficiently. Labour is a significant portion of roofing expenses, as skilled tradespeople must navigate high-risk environments, use specialised tools, and apply their expertise to deliver a long-lasting solution.
Some roofing jobs are quick and straightforward, like minor patch repairs that require minimal time and labour. However, bigger projects, such as full roof restorations, take longer due to the level of precision and preparation involved. Factors like roof access, pitch, and even the weather can also impact how long the job takes. A steep or difficult-to-reach roof will naturally require more time and care, while unexpected weather delays can extend timelines. Every roofing job is different, which is why accurate timing and labour costs are factored into your quote.
3. Experience of the Roofing Professional
Not all roofers are the same. Highly skilled roofers with years of experience will typically cost more, but for good reason. A Qualified roofer puts in the hard yards to hone their skills and ensure they can deliver quality work that meets Australian standards. They’re required to have completed (or be a part of) an apprenticeship program. In addition, they also complete ongoing training and certifications to keep their roofing skills sharp and up-to-date.
Most importantly, an experienced roofer will think about ensuring your issue is fixed correctly the first time. Hiring a professional roofer might cost more upfront, but it will save you from time-consuming repeat issues and additional expenses in the future. Your roof is arguably the most important part of your home, offering critical protection from the elements; investing in an expert is a worthwhile investment.
The Importance of a Site Visit and Inspection
Since our establishment in 2013, our team at RDW Roofing has seen it all. We’ve repaired and diagnosed thousands of roofing problems and have even heard stories from homeowners who have received a roofing quote without a single site visit. This is baffling.
A roofer cannot accurately diagnose an issue or provide a reliable quote without inspecting the roof and attic space in person. Here’s why:
- Hidden Issues: For example, if you’re struggling with a visible leak, what’s on the surface might only be part of a larger problem. Without a proper inspection, the full extent of the damage remains unknown.
- Incorrect Pricing: If a roofer underquotes due to a lack of inspection, they face two options:
- Requote mid-job – leading to an awkward and frustrating conversation with you.
- Cut corners – which can result in poor-quality repairs and future problems. Unfortunately, our team has had to be called out many times to fix unsatisfactory work. This is frustrating for a homeowner as it equals wasted time and wasted money.
A reliable roofer will always inspect the site before quoting. They’ll provide you with a transparent, thorough roofing report with photographic evidence to support their recommendations so you’re fully informed of the extent of the damage.
Will the Quote Actually Solve Your Roofing Problem?
Once you have a quote, the next question is: Are you looking for a quick fix or a long-term solution?
Example: Ridge Cap Repairs
Let’s use a hypothetical as an example. Imagine you have a roof leak coming into your home caused by a dislodged ridge cap. If you’d like to see what this looks like, visit our home page and try out our roofing lifespan tool. So, upon inspection, your roofer discovers the pointing around your ridge caps is starting to peel and crack. A further inspection shows the bedding is even beginning to degrade. This means that the ridge cap causing the leak is just the first to be a problem, and the remaining ridge caps will likely soon follow in a few years. Ignoring this early warning sign can lead to more significant water damage, structural weakening, and higher repair costs in the future. You, as a homeowner, have two options:
- Short-term fix: Patch up the single affected area. This could last 2-3 years, but if the rest of the ridge caps are deteriorating, more leaks will almost certainly follow in the near future.
- Long-term solution: Re-bed and re-point all ridge caps. It’s the more expensive solution but it will last 20+ years and prevent future issues.
Which option do you choose? Both technically fix the issue of your leaking roof. However, the short-term fix will result in recurrent leaks. So what’s the long-term cost? Option one eventually leads to more costly site visits and reassessments. It means your ceiling will continue to degrade from repeat leaks and even become waterlogged, mould-ridden, and stained. The insulation in your ceiling starts accumulating mould and eventually needs replacing. Most concerning is future leaks could start dripping onto electricals (a concerning fire hazard. These are all critical factors that homeowners need to take into account when considering the cost of roofing.
At the end of the day, the cheapest option is usually not the best in the long term. However, a licensed roofer will present you with options and explain both short and long-term solutions so you can make an informed decision.
Choosing the Right Roofing Quote
If you’re shopping around for roofing quotes, keep these key takeaways in mind:
- A thorough inspection should always be conducted before pricing is given.
- The cost depends on materials, labour, and the roofer’s expertise.
- Cheap quotes can lead to low-quality repairs. Investing in long-term solutions can save you a lot of money and time in the long run.
Need an expert tile roofing inspection and honest pricing? Our licensed and insured team offers roofing in Hobart, Launceston, and Tasmania-Wide. Contact RDW Roofing today for a proper assessment and a solution that lasts.
