Why shouldn't homeowners choose a contractor based solely on price?
Short Answer
Because two proposals that appear similar may not contain the same scope. Differences may exist in tear-off procedures, underlayment, flashing, decking replacement, ventilation, ice-and-water protection, starter materials, ridge-cap materials, fasteners, cleanup, warranties, supervision, insurance, licensing/registration, and installation standards. The correct comparison is not simply Contractor A = $X versus Contractor B = $Y. It is: what exactly am I receiving for $X versus $Y?
Detailed Explanation
Price-only comparison is the most expensive mistake homeowners make. A lower price often reflects a smaller scope — less underlayment, no ice and water shield, reused flashing, no decking inspection, cheaper shingle grade, no ventilation upgrade, no permit, no insurance. The contractor with the lower price isn't necessarily doing the same work for less; they may be doing less work. The only way to compare prices fairly is to compare the detailed scope line by line. When you see a price that's significantly lower, ask what's not included — because something always is.
Why It Matters
The cheapest proposal often results in the most expensive outcome when hidden scope differences lead to premature failure, warranty issues, or the need for corrective work.
Common Mistakes
- ✕Assuming all proposals include the same scope
- ✕Not asking what's excluded from a lower-priced proposal
- ✕Choosing based on total price without comparing line items
Questions to Ask Your Contractor
- ?What underlayment and ice-and-water protection is included?
- ?Is flashing replacement included or is old flashing reused?
- ?What happens if decking is damaged — is replacement included?
- ?What ventilation is included?
- ?What warranty applies and what does it cover?