A real roof estimate is a structured document, not a single number. The line items map directly to what the crew will actually do on your house. When you can read it, you can spot the markup. When you cannot, you are buying on trust alone — which works fine until it does not.
§ I1. Tear-off and disposal
Should be specified by number of layers (single layer of three-tab tears off differently than double-layer architectural). Disposal includes dumpster rental and tipping fees at the county landfill. Typical: $1.25 to $2.00 per sq ft of roof on a single-layer tear-off.
§ II2. Decking replacement (the slippery one)
Every estimate should specify how many sheets of decking are included in the base price (usually 4 to 8 sheets) and the per-sheet price for anything beyond. If your estimate says "decking replacement as needed," ask for the per-sheet rate up front. Most homes need 2 to 5 sheets swapped. The bad-actor move is to quote a low base price and then bill 20 sheets at the back end.
§ III3. Underlayment — brand matters
Should name a specific synthetic underlayment product (GAF Tiger Paw, Owens Corning ProArmor, Atlas Summit). If it says "felt paper" you are getting a budget install. If it says "synthetic underlayment" with no brand, ask which one and verify on delivery day.
§ IV4. Ice & water shield placement
Texas code does not require ice & water shield everywhere, but quality installs put it in all valleys, around penetrations, and along the eaves. Estimate should specify which areas. "Valleys only" is acceptable. "All eaves and valleys" is better. No mention of it is a red flag.
§ V5. Shingles — manufacturer, product, color
Should specify manufacturer (GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, Atlas), product line (Timberline AS II, Duration Storm, Landmark Pro), color, and warranty registration tier. "Architectural shingle in your choice of color" is too vague.
§ VI6. Flashing — new vs. reused
This is the line where a 5-figure margin hides. New flashing on a reroof costs $400 to $1,200 in materials. Reused flashing costs $0 — and saves the contractor money you do not see. Estimate should explicitly say "all new flashing" or list each flashing type being replaced. If it does not, ask.
§ VII7. Ridge vent and ridge cap
Two separate line items in good estimates. Ridge vent is the ventilation system at the peak; ridge cap shingles cover it. If only "ridge cap" is listed, you may not be getting ridge vent — which means worse attic ventilation.
§ VIII8. Cleanup, magnet sweep, and warranty
Should explicitly include: dumpster placement and removal, daily site cleanup, two-pass magnet sweep of the yard, photo documentation, and a written workmanship warranty (5 years is industry standard).
