How Roofing Contractors Can Create Accurate Bids and Estimates That Win Jobs
- Nate Jones
- Sep 19
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 22
Creating accurate bids and estimates is one of the most important skills a roofing contractor can master. Underbidding can eat into your profits, while overbidding can cost you the job. In this guide, we’ll show how roofing contractors can create accurate bids and estimates that win jobs—without sacrificing profitability.
You’ll also learn how Contractor Back Office supports roofing businesses with estimating tools and how Wexford Insurance helps protect your bottom line.
📐 Why Accurate Bids and Estimates Matter for Roofing Contractors
For roofing contractors, a bid isn’t just a number—it’s a reflection of your professionalism, experience, and understanding of the job. Inaccurate estimates can lead to:
Lost profits due to underestimated labor or materials
Damaged reputation from change orders or cost overruns
Missed opportunities if your pricing is too high or too vague
Accurate bids and estimates for roofing contractors help you win more jobs, build trust with clients, and ensure every project is financially sound.
1. Start with a Detailed Site Inspection
Every accurate roofing estimate begins with a thorough site visit. Take measurements, inspect the roof’s condition, and note any special requirements like steep slopes, multiple layers, or structural damage. This information forms the foundation of your roofing contractor bid and helps you avoid surprises later.
2. Break Down Material Costs Clearly
Material pricing can vary based on roof type, region, and supplier. Your roofing estimate should include:
Shingles or roofing material type and quantity
Underlayment, flashing, nails, and sealants
Waste factor (typically 10–15%)
Delivery or disposal fees
Being transparent about material costs builds trust and helps clients understand your pricing.
3. Accurately Estimate Labor Costs
Labor is often the largest part of a roofing job. When preparing bids for roofing contractors, consider:
Crew size and skill level
Estimated hours or days to complete the job
Overtime or weekend work
Safety requirements or special equipment
Use historical job data or a CRM system to refine your labor estimates over time.
4. Include Overhead and Profit Margins
Many roofing contractors forget to factor in overhead—like insurance, office expenses, fuel, and marketing. Your roofing contractor estimate should also include a healthy profit margin (typically 10–30%) to ensure your business remains sustainable.
5. Use Estimating Software or Templates
Manual calculations can lead to errors. Use estimating software or digital templates to streamline your process. Tools like JobNimbus, RoofSnap, or Contractor Back Office’s estimating system help roofing contractors:
Generate professional proposals
Save time on repetitive tasks
Reduce math errors
Track estimate-to-job conversion rates
6. Customize Each Estimate for the Client
Avoid sending generic estimates. Personalize each roofing bid with the client’s name, property details, and a brief project summary. This shows attention to detail and increases your chances of winning the job.
7. Be Transparent About Payment Terms
Set clear expectations by including payment terms in your roofing estimate:
Deposit amount (e.g., 30–50%)
Payment schedule (e.g., milestone-based or upon completion)
Accepted payment methods
Late payment penalties
This protects your business and helps avoid disputes.
8. Follow Up Promptly After Sending the Estimate
Don’t just send the estimate and wait. Follow up within 24–48 hours to answer questions, clarify details, and show your interest in the project. Roofing contractors who follow up consistently win more jobs and build stronger client relationships.
🧾 How Contractor Back Office Helps with Roofing Estimates
Contractor Back Office offers professional support for bids and estimates for roofing contractors, helping you:
Create accurate, branded proposals
Track estimate approval rates
Integrate estimating with CRM and invoicing
Save time and reduce errors
With their help, you can focus on roofing while they handle the paperwork.
Explore Contractor Back Office’s estimating services for roofing contractors
🛡️ Protecting Roofing Contractors with Wexford Insurance
Even with accurate estimates, roofing jobs come with risks. Wexford Insurance offers tailored coverage to protect your business, including:
General Liability Insurance – Covers property damage or injuries
Workers’ Compensation – Protects your crew on the job
Tools and Equipment Insurance – Covers theft or damage to your gear
Insurance ensures your roofing business stays protected—no matter what happens on the job.
Learn more about roofing contractor insurance from Wexford.
🧠 Conclusion
Accurate bids and estimates for roofing contractors are the key to winning jobs and staying profitable. By:
Conducting thorough inspections
Breaking down costs clearly
Using estimating tools
Following up with clients
You can build trust, close more deals, and grow your roofing business with confidence. With support from Contractor Back Office and protection from Wexford Insurance, you’ll be ready to take on more projects—profitably and professionally.
