Q: I’ve received roofing estimates ranging from $10,000 to $25,000. How do I know which one is the best option for my home?
A: Great question—and you’re not alone. Many homeowners face this dilemma. Although it’s tempting to go with the lowest bid, not all roof replacements are created equal. In fact, it’s critical to understand what you’re getting with each estimate.
Why Price Isn’t the Only Factor
Let’s compare this to remodeling a bathroom. Installing a tub isn’t just about hooking up pipes—it involves plumbing, waterproofing, finishing, and more. Similarly, replacing a roof requires a comprehensive system, not just shingles.
Ultimately, your goal should be to install a complete roofing system backed by a single manufacturer’s warranty. This ensures compatibility, durability, and long-term protection.
What’s in a Roofing System?
There are six essential parts that make up a proper roofing system. Together, they work to protect your home from the elements and extend the life of your roof.
Let’s walk through each component:
What’s Included in a Complete Roofing System?
There are six essential parts to every long-lasting, weather-resistant roof. Let’s break down each component:
1. ✅ Leak Barrier Protection
What is it?
This membrane creates a watertight seal around the most leak-prone areas—eaves, valleys, chimneys, vents, and more.
Why it matters:
In New England, where we face snow, ice, and rain, leak protection is essential. At Coastal, we apply 6 feet of GAF Weather Watch Leak Barrier, compared to the 3 feet used by many other contractors.
In short, it doubles the protection against future leaks and extreme weather.
2. ✅ Synthetic Roof Deck Protection
What is it?
Deck Armor is a synthetic underlayment applied between your roof deck and shingles. It acts as a breathable barrier to prevent moisture buildup.
Why it matters:
Unlike old felt paper, Deck Armor won’t tear or trap moisture. Consequently, it prevents roof rot and keeps shingles from buckling.
Moreover, it’s 600x stronger than felt and has a perm rating of 16, making it ideal for protecting your home from the inside out.
3. ✅ Starter Strip Shingles
What is it?
These pre-cut shingles are the first installed on the eaves and rakes, locking the entire shingle system in place.
Why it matters:
Some roofers cut corners—literally—by using strip shingles instead. Unfortunately, these don’t offer the same wind resistance.
By contrast, our GAF starter strips provide superior adhesion and help prevent shingle blow-off up to 130 mph.
4. ✅ Lifetime Shingles
What is it?
These are your primary shingles, designed for strength, appearance, and longevity.
Why it matters:
GAF Lifetime Shingles provide advanced protection, resistance to wind and fire, and come with Stainguard algae protection. Furthermore, they’re backed by a 25-year labor warranty and a lifetime material warranty—plus the Good Housekeeping Seal.
5. ✅ GAF Cobra Ridge Vent
What is it?
Installed at the peak of your roof, this vent allows hot, moist air to escape from your attic.
Why it matters:
Proper ventilation reduces ice dams, mold, roof rot, and energy waste. As a result, your attic stays cooler in summer and drier in winter.
In addition, it extends the life of your roofing system while protecting your insulation, paint, and stored belongings.
6. ✅ Ridge Cap Shingles
What is it?
These are the finishing shingles placed over the roof’s ridges and hips—its highest stress points.
Why it matters:
Instead of using generic cut-up shingles, we install TimberTex Ridge Caps, which provide extra thickness, weather protection, and a polished look.
Therefore, you avoid a mismatched roofline and enjoy added protection where it matters most.
Why Estimates Vary So Widely
So, what explains the $10K–$25K range in roofing quotes?
Some estimates might only include basic materials and minimal labor, while others (like ours) include:
Full roofing systems
Factory-certified labor
Extended warranties
Premium materials throughout
As a result, the higher bid often reflects better materials, better installation, and longer-lasting results.
The Coastal Commitment
At Coastal Windows & Exteriors, we do more than just replace your roof. We educate you every step of the way.
We are GAF Master Elite Contractors, which only 2% of roofers in the U.S. qualify for.
We never use high-pressure sales tactics.
Our quotes are clear, transparent, and all-inclusive.
Additionally, we include labor, materials, cleanup, permits, warranties, and disposal—everything you need with no surprises.
Final Thoughts: What Should You Do Next?
Choosing a roofing contractor shouldn’t feel overwhelming. Instead, it should feel empowering when you know what to ask.
Here’s what to consider before signing any roofing contract:
Does the quote include all 6 parts of the roofing system?
Are the products from a single, reputable manufacturer?
Is the labor backed by a manufacturer-certified warranty?
Will the installer educate you—not pressure you?
If the answer to any of these is no, it’s time to call someone who will.
📞 Call 978-304-0495 or
📧 Email svanderbilt@mycoastalwindows.com to speak directly with a roofing specialist.
Stephanie Vanderbilt, owner of Coastal Windows & Exteriors, is proud to serve as your trusted home improvement resource. Her passion for helping homeowners protect their homes drives every roofing system Coastal installs.
Ready to Replace Your Roof with Confidence?
Choosing the right roof isn’t just about price—it’s about protection, performance, and peace of mind.
📍 Serving Beverly, Boston, Manchester, and surrounding areas, Coastal Windows & Exteriors offers roofing, siding, windows, entry doors, and bath systems designed for New England’s toughest weather.
Let us help you love the home you live in—safely, beautifully, and efficiently.
