Free Tool
Roofing Quote Comparison Calculator: Cost per Square
Three roofers, three totals, three different square counts - and it is hard to tell which quote is actually the best deal. Enter the total and the squares from each one. The calculator puts them on a price-per-square basis and flags measurements or scopes that don't line up.
Interactive Tool
Roofing Quote Comparison Calculator
Type in the total price and the number of squares from each written quote. A cheaper total can hide a smaller measurement, and a higher one can include tear-off or decking the others left out - this lines them up per square so you can see which is which.
| Quote | Per square | Per sq ft | vs. lowest | Tear-off |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roofer A | $550 | $5.50 | +8% | Yes |
| Roofer B | $582 | $5.82 | +15% | Yes |
| Roofer C | $507 | $5.07 | Lowest | No |
- The square counts differ by 21%. Ask each roofer how they measured (tape, aerial report, satellite) - the same roof shouldn't change size between quotes.
- Not every quote includes tear-off, so the per-square prices aren't like for like yet.
- Check that each quote names the shingle line, underlayment, drip edge, ventilation and any decking allowance.
Not sure how many quotes to get? See how many roofing quotes to get and the Texas roofing contract checklist.
Read the quote before you compare the price
Price per square only means something when the scope matches. Before you compare, check each quote for tear-off of the old roof, the underlayment type, new drip edge and flashing, ventilation, a per-sheet price for rotten decking, the permit and cleanup. Ask the roofer to add anything missing in writing.
If the square counts are far apart, run your own number with the roof square footage calculator.
Storm season quotes in Texas
After a big hailstorm, out-of-town crews knock on doors and quotes arrive fast. Check that each roofer has a local address, carries liability and workers' comp insurance, and pulls the city permit. The contractor red flags guide and how to verify a roofer's insurance walk through it.
Official resources before you sign
The Texas Attorney General and Department of Insurance list the warning signs of storm-chaser contractors and the rules roofers must follow on insurance jobs.
- Texas Attorney General: how to avoid home improvement scams
Warning signs of storm-chaser contractors and what to check before signing a roofing contract.
- Texas Department of Insurance: roofing and insurance, know the law
Texas rules on roofing contracts, deductibles and what a contractor may not do on your claim.
- Texas Department of Insurance: after a hail or windstorm
Step-by-step claim tips after hail or wind damage, including documenting damage and deadlines.
Questions
How do I compare roofing quotes fairly?
Divide each total by the number of squares on that quote to get a price per square, then check that every quote covers the same things: tear-off, underlayment, drip edge, flashing, ventilation, decking allowance, permit and cleanup. The lowest total is not always the lowest price per square.
Why do roofers measure the same roof differently?
Some measure on the roof, some use aerial reports and some use satellite tools, and each adds a different waste allowance. Small differences are normal. A gap of 10% or more is worth asking about.
What should every roofing quote include?
The shingle brand and product line, underlayment type, what happens to the old roof, how rotten decking is priced, ventilation work, permit, cleanup, the workmanship warranty and the payment schedule. Our Texas roofing contract checklist covers each item.
Is it a red flag if one quote is much cheaper?
Not always, but find out why. A low quote can leave out tear-off or decking, use a lower shingle line, or come from a crew without insurance. Ask for the missing items in writing before you compare.
Can a roofer offer to cover my insurance deductible?
No. Texas law bars contractors from waiving, rebating or absorbing a homeowner's deductible. A quote that does this, or inflates the price to hide it, is a reason to walk away.