The Cheapest Bid Always Wins -- Until It Does Not
We get it. A roof is a major expense, and when you get three quotes and one comes in 30% lower than the others, that number is hard to ignore. But there is a reason that quote is so low, and it has nothing to do with efficiency or volume pricing.
In roofing, the cheapest bid almost always means corners are being cut somewhere. The question is where -- and whether you will notice before it is too late.
Where Cheap Roofers Cut Corners
Materials
The biggest cost in any roofing project is materials. Here is where budget contractors trim the fat:
- 3-tab shingles instead of architectural: They cost less per bundle but offer inferior wind resistance, shorter warranties, and worse curb appeal.
- Felt underlayment instead of synthetic: Felt paper tears easily, absorbs moisture, and degrades faster. Synthetic costs a few hundred more and lasts decades longer.
- Skipping ice and water shield: Missouri code requires it in valleys and at eaves. Some contractors skip it anyway because you will never see it once the shingles go on.
- Reusing old flashing: Proper practice is to replace all step flashing, counter flashing, and pipe boots. Reusing corroded metal is a leak waiting to happen.
Labor
Cheap labor means inexperienced crews, often paid by the job rather than the hour, moving as fast as possible with minimal quality control. The result:
- Improper nail placement (too high, too few, or overdriven)
- Shingles not properly sealed, especially in cold weather installs
- Ventilation shortcuts that void manufacturer warranties
- Sloppy flashing work around chimneys and walls
What They Leave Out of the Quote
- Dumping fees for the old roof
- Permits (yes, you need one in most St. Louis jurisdictions)
- Decking replacement if they find rot
- Code-required items like drip edge and proper ventilation
That "low bid" suddenly has a lot of change orders once work starts.
The Real Cost Over 10 Years
A quality roof replacement in St. Louis runs $8,000-$15,000 for a standard home. A cheap one might come in at $5,000-$7,000. Sounds like a deal.
But within five years, you are looking at:
- Leak repairs from poor flashing: $500-$2,000
- Blown-off shingles from improper nailing: $300-$800 per incident
- Voided manufacturer warranty due to installation defects: priceless (and not in a good way)
- Early replacement at year 10-12 instead of year 25-30
How to Spot Value vs. Cheap
A fair quote from a quality contractor should include a detailed scope of work, material specifications, warranty information, proof of insurance and licensing, and a realistic timeline. If the quote is a one-page document with a single line item and a number at the bottom, you are not getting value -- you are getting risk.
Get a transparent estimate from Vulcan Construction. We show you exactly what you are paying for, line by line.