When it comes to roofing, the temptation to go with the lowest bid is real. After all, roofing projects can be expensive, and if one roofing contractor says they’ll do it for thousands less than the others, why wouldn’t you take the deal?
Well… RoofCrafters is here to pump the brakes a bit. Hiring the cheapest roofer may save you money upfront, but it often leads to costly headaches down the line.
That being said, in this article, we’ll peel back the shingles and expose the hidden costs of hiring the cheapest roofing contractor, and why quality should never be compromised when it comes to your roof. Let’s get into it.
“I Got a Great Deal!” …But at What Cost?
It’s a story we hear far too often. A homeowner gets a low roofing estimate, signs the contract, and breathes a sigh of relief. But weeks (or even days) after the job is done, they start noticing problems:
- Leaks near the chimney
- Sagging rooflines
- Shingles lifting in the wind
- Or worse, an incomplete job with no contractor in sight
These aren’t just annoying defects; they’re red flags.
The unfortunate truth is that the cheapest roofer often cuts corners to keep costs low. That means using subpar roofing materials, skipping critical steps in the installation process, or hiring unskilled labor. Sure, the estimate was low. But the real price? Water damage, structural issues, mold, and the cost of hiring someone else to fix the mess.
Why “Cheap Now” Often Means “Expensive Later”
Let’s break down the common hidden costs associated with hiring the cheapest roofer:
Low-Quality Roofing Materials
Roofing materials come in a wide range of quality and durability. A budget roofer may use the bare minimum grade of asphalt shingles or low-grade underlayment, which deteriorates faster and offers less protection. Some may even use expired or leftover materials from previous jobs.
Poor Roofing Workmanship
Roofing is a skilled trade. Contractors who underbid jobs often cut labor costs by hiring inexperienced or unlicensed workers, or by rushing through jobs to squeeze in as many as possible. Poor workmanship leads to:
- Improper flashing installation (hello, leaks!)
- Incorrect nail placement (voids warranties)
- Uneven or sagging rooflines
No Roofing Warranty or Insurance
A reputable roofing contractor will back their work with warranties, often for both materials and labor. But budget roofers may not offer any warranty, or worse, disappear entirely after the job is done.
And let’s not even talk about insurance. If a worker gets hurt on your property and your roofer doesn’t have proper liability or workers’ comp insurance, guess who’s on the hook?
Surprise “Extras” and Change Orders
Some low-cost roofers reel clients in with attractive base pricing, then tack on extra charges as the job progresses. These “unforeseen issues” might be things a reputable roofer would’ve included in the initial estimate.
Risk of Full Roof Replacement Sooner Than Expected
A roof that should last 25–30 years might only last 10 if installed improperly. That means you’re not saving money, you’re just pushing your costs into the future (and adding interest).
What You Should Do Instead
So, how do you get a roof that’s cost-effective but not a disaster waiting to happen? Here’s how to avoid the hidden costs of hiring the cheapest roofer:
Always Compare Apples to Apples
If one roofing estimate is significantly lower than the others, dig into the details. Are they using the same materials? Are labor, tear-off, disposal, and warranty all included? A detailed proposal is a sign of a trustworthy roofer.
Verify Credentials
Don’t be afraid to ask for:
- Proof of licensing and insurance
- References from past clients
- Photos of previous work
- Manufacturer certifications (e.g., GAF, CertainTeed)
Cheap roofers often lack the credentials to prove their reliability.
Ask About Warranties & Read the Fine Print
A reputable roofing company should offer both a workmanship warranty and a manufacturer’s materials warranty. Be cautious of vague promises like “we’ll come fix it if something happens.”
Trust Your Gut
If something feels off during your consultation (maybe they’re rushing, badmouthing competitors, or avoiding direct answers), it probably is. Roofing is a long-term investment. You deserve transparency and professionalism.
Consider Long-Term ROI, Not Just Upfront Cost
Spending a bit more for a licensed, experienced roofing contractor can mean:
- Longer roof lifespan
- Better resale value
- Fewer repairs
- Peace of mind
That’s an ROI that cheap roofers can’t offer.
Real-World Example
Let’s say you receive two roofing estimates:
- Roofer A: $7,200
- Roofer B: $11,500
Roofer A uses generic 3-tab shingles, doesn’t mention underlayment, and offers no warranty. Roofer B uses architectural shingles, synthetic underlayment, ice and water shields, and includes a 10-year workmanship warranty.
You go with Roofer A. But six years later, leaks start showing up, and now you need a partial roof replacement. Between damage repairs and a new roofer, you end up spending an additional $6,500.
Total spent? $13,700. And guess what? Your roof still isn’t covered by a workmanship warranty. Sometimes, cheap roofing work is the most expensive kind.
Choose Value Over Price
We get it, roofing isn’t cheap. But the risks of hiring the cheapest roofer often outweigh the savings. From poor craftsmanship to hidden fees and insurance nightmares, you could be setting yourself up for a costly ride.
Instead, focus on value: choose a licensed, insured roofer who uses high-quality materials and stands behind their work. Because in the roofing world, you really do get what you pay for.
Interested in starting the process today with a reputable, licensed, and certified team? Be sure to hit that “Schedule an Inspection” button down below, and one of our friendly representatives will walk you through the process!
