Define which “new roof” you are pricing.
An existing-roof replacement includes decisions about removal, disposal, retained materials, and concealed conditions. A new-construction installation has a different starting point, with plans and coordination across the build. An addition can involve both new work and a connection to an older roof. Identify the project type before comparing any total.
Name every roof section included: main house, garage, covered entry, porch, or addition. One quote may include a low-slope area while another leaves it outside the job. A useful comparison starts with the same work boundary. Mark the sections on a simple property sketch or review them together during the estimate discussion.
Use measured roof information, not living area alone.
The home’s interior square footage does not fully describe the roof being installed. Roof geometry, pitch, overhangs, separate structures, and layout affect the roofing area and work. The estimate should explain what was measured and which assumptions remain open pending a closer review.
Access and handling also belong in the project description. Limited staging space, gates, occupied areas, or another contractor’s work can affect the plan. Share those details early. A price based on unrestricted driveway access is not a complete proposal if that access will be unavailable during the job.
Compare the cost categories side by side.
The covering is one part of the estimate. Look at removal, supporting components, details around openings, permit duties, disposal, and closeout. If one proposal is shorter, ask which categories are included rather than assuming they are covered by the total.
Use the worksheet below to identify gaps. It does not set a price or say that every item applies to every roof. It gives the contractors the same questions to answer so you can compare the proposed work on a common basis.
| Category | What to establish |
|---|---|
| Roof sections | Structures, slopes, and measured areas included |
| Removal | Existing layers, handling, and disposal scope |
| New assembly | Named covering and supporting components |
| Hidden conditions | Pricing method and approval for added work |
| Project duties | Permits, inspections, access, and protection |
| Handover | Cleanup, records, and applicable written coverage |
Make allowances and changes easier to manage.
Concealed deck repairs may not be fully known before removal. The agreement should state how findings are documented and how added work is priced and authorized. A unit price can be useful only when the unit and included work are clear. An allowance needs an explanation of what it covers and how the final charge is calculated.
Keep optional upgrades separate from work needed for the selected scope. If you request another material, a skylight change, or additional roof sections, ask for the change in writing. This makes it easier to understand whether a higher total comes from your choice, a newly discovered condition, or a different original assumption.
Review the terms before choosing the number.
Compare payment stages, exclusions, schedule assumptions, change procedures, and written coverage alongside the total. Verify contractor and business information through the official state resources. Insurance or financing questions should be answered by the relevant provider; a roofing estimate alone does not establish coverage or a loan decision.
Call Cedar Roofing Service at (561) 701-9770 with your Palm Beach Gardens address and project type. Share roof records and any estimates you want to compare. Confirm availability and any visit charge. The next step is a property-specific scope that lets you understand the price, not a guessed budget dressed up as a firm quote.
Your questions, answered.
Can you give an accurate price from square footage alone?
No. Roof measurements, assembly, condition, access, and included work must be established before a reliable project price can be prepared.
Why do two replacement estimates have different totals?
They may cover different roof sections, products, removal assumptions, hidden-work terms, or project duties. Compare those details before judging the price gap.
Should I add a fixed percentage for unexpected work?
Use the actual agreement’s pricing and approval method for concealed conditions. A generic percentage does not define what may be found on your roof.
Are permit and disposal charges always included?
Do not assume that they are. Have the proposal state who pays and what each charge covers.
Useful local information
- Florida Attorney General: hiring a contractor
- Palm Beach Gardens: residential reroof checklist