How to Write a Roofing Estimate for Contractors

How to Write a Roofing Estimate for Contractors - AMSI

Picking up where we left off in Pricing Your Metal Roofing Jobs: A Complete Contractor Guide, let’s be honest: estimating a standing seam metal roof is infinitely more complex than quoting a standard shingle job. There are no "bundles" to simply round up. You are dealing with panel lengths, custom trim profiles, clip spacing, and fastener schedules.

For established contractors, the difference between a profitable year and a breakeven year often comes down to the precision of your bid. This 2025 guide moves beyond the basics to focus on high-level estimating strategies, specific code compliance for metal systems, and leveraging the AMSI Supply inventory to win more bids.

Modernizing Your Workflow: The 2025 Digital Toolkit

You already know how to measure a roof. The goal in 2025 is to integrate technology that mitigates the unique risks of metal roofing—specifically, precise panel lengths and complex flashings.

  • Drone Data for Panel Precision: Beyond simple square footage, use drone 3D modeling to calculate exact ridge-to-eave lengths. In metal roofing, a measurement error of two inches doesn't mean cutting a shingle; it means reordering a panel. Drones ensure your cut list is accurate before the coil ever hits the roll former.
  • CRM Integration: Your CRM shouldn't just be a contact list; it should hold your specific metal SKUs. Configure your estimator to auto-populate associated accessories—automatically adding the correct count of AMSI clips and fasteners based on the square footage and panel width.

The Core Elements of a Metal Roofing Estimate

When presenting a bid for a premium product like metal, your estimate document must reflect that level of quality.

1 Project Scope Description (The "System" Approach)

Don't just list "New Roof." Describe the complete metal system.

  • Deck Prep: Specify deck inspection for fastener pull-out strength—crucial for meeting wind uplift requirements.
  • Underlayment: Specify High-Temp Synthetic Underlayment (required for metal) rather than standard felt.
  • The System: Define the panel profile (e.g., "24-gauge Standing Seam, 16-inch Striated").
  • Code Compliance: Explicitly state that the specified clip system (e.g., AMSI UL-90 rated clips) meets local wind uplift codes.

2 Precision Material Breakdown

This is where generic estimates fail. Your client needs to see that they are paying for a durable, engineered system, not just "metal." Partnering with AMSI Supply allows you to list specific, high-quality components that justify your price.

The "Waste Factor" Conversation:

Unlike shingles, you cannot use a flat 10% waste factor.

  • Panels:Factor in hemming allowances at the eave and ridge.
  • Trim: Calculate linear trim with a 15-20% waste factor to account for overlaps and complex miter cuts at hips and valleys.
  • Explanation: Explain to the client that "Waste" in metal roofing largely refers to the craftsmanship required to fold and hem panels securely, not just throwing material away.

3 Winter Estimating for Metal

If you are estimating for a winter install, your costs must reflect the reality of metal work in the cold.

  • Safety: Metal is slippery. Budget for additional roof jacks, harnesses, and slower movement on the slope.
  • Sealants: Standard caulk freezes. Factor in the time and equipment to "hot-box" your sealants so they cure properly.
  • Handling:Cold metal can oil-can or behave differently during forming. Build in a buffer for slower handling.

Read more: 6 Tips for Roofing Companies to Reduce Customer Callbacks

The 2025 Metal Roofing Estimate Template

Below is a standardized structure tailored for metal projects. Note the specificity in the materials section—this is how you differentiate yourself from the "chuck-in-a-truck" bidding asphalt prices.

Project Header

Client: John Doe | Location: 123 Maple Ave

Estimate #: EST-2025-001 | Valid Until: [Date + 30 Days]

Scope Summary

Installation of 24-gauge Standing Seam Metal Roofing System (2,400 sq. ft). Includes removal of existing layer, deck repair, installation of high-temp underlayment, and AMSI wind-rated clip system.

A. Labor Costs

Includes tear-off, panel forming/installation, and custom trim fabrication.

  • Total Labor: $12,500.00 

B. Material Costs

Here, you list all the physical materials needed for the job. Being specific about brands and types reinforces quality and professionalism. For example:

Item Description Qty Unit Cost Total
Panels 24ga Steel Coil (Matte Black), 16" Width 26 sq. $230.00
Underlayment High-Temp Synthetic (Self-Adhered) 8 rolls $125.00
Clips AMSI UL-90 Rated Expansion Clips 1,600 pcs $0.45
Fasteners AMSI Pancake Head Woodscrews (Long-Life) 4 buckets $65.00
Trim Custom Fabricated (Ridge, Rake, Eave, Valley) 450 ln. ft. $2.00
Accessories Pipe Boots, Rivets, Sealant (High Grade) 1 lot $140.00
Total Materials $9,000.00

 

C. Additional Costs

This section covers other essential third-party costs associated with the project, such as disposal and permits.

  • Disposal: 20-Yard Dumpster Haul-Away ($650.00) 
  • Permits: City Building Permit ($400.00) 
  • Equipment: Standing Seam Roll Former Rental ($300.00)

D. Project Total

Grand Total: $20,000.00* NOTE: (The figures are not actual costs; they have only been added to give an example of how an estimate should be shown).

Includes 10-Year Workmanship Warranty & 40-Year Paint Finish Warranty

Next Steps

Your estimate is the first sample of your work the client sees. Make it precise, professional, and detailed.

Ready to build your material list?

Elevate your metal roofing business with AMSI Supply. Browse our extensive selection of high-quality products and tools online now and enjoy competitive pricing and prompt shipping.

Posted in Roofing Company Tips