Roofing replacing tim

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Roofing replacing tim

Adam GardnerPro Member
Investor · Ladson, SC · Member since 2022 · 8 posts · 9 votes

Ok its time to replace roofs on 2 of my properties! Who has used GAF for measurements? How accurate are they? Im and out of state investor who self manages and trying to get the material pricing for purchasing to be picked up by contractor. Or any recommendations on another way?

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Divin KanyamaBusiness Member
Accountant · Seattle, WA · Member since 2025 · 232 posts · 76 votes
1d

@Adam Gardner Aerial roof reports are a helpful starting point, but they should not be the sole basis for a final material order. GAF’s measurements can be reasonably accurate when the imagery is clear, although trees, additions, steep pitches, and complex rooflines may affect the results. Ask the contractor to verify the report with an on-site measurement and confirm the waste factor—often around 10%–15%, and potentially more for complicated roofs—before purchasing materials. The contractor should also provide a complete materials list covering shingles, underlayment, flashing, vents, drip edge, starter strips, ridge caps, and possible decking replacement. It may also be worth comparing GAF’s report with EagleView or a local roofing supplier’s takeoff service. For an out-of-state owner, clarify in writing who is responsible for shortages, excess materials, pickup, storage, returns, and warranty compliance. A verified takeoff upfront can help prevent delays and costly change orders later.

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  • Divin KanyamaBusiness Member
    Accountant · Seattle, WA · Member since 2025 · 232 posts · 76 votes
    1d

    @Adam Gardner Aerial roof reports are a helpful starting point, but they should not be the sole basis for a final material order. GAF’s measurements can be reasonably accurate when the imagery is clear, although trees, additions, steep pitches, and complex rooflines may affect the results. Ask the contractor to verify the report with an on-site measurement and confirm the waste factor—often around 10%–15%, and potentially more for complicated roofs—before purchasing materials. The contractor should also provide a complete materials list covering shingles, underlayment, flashing, vents, drip edge, starter strips, ridge caps, and possible decking replacement. It may also be worth comparing GAF’s report with EagleView or a local roofing supplier’s takeoff service. For an out-of-state owner, clarify in writing who is responsible for shortages, excess materials, pickup, storage, returns, and warranty compliance. A verified takeoff upfront can help prevent delays and costly change orders later.

    [email protected]
    WEMBO CPA532 Reviews
    WebsiteView Page
    1Reply
  • Adam GardnerPro Member
    OP
    Investor · Ladson, SC · Member since 2022 · 8 posts · 9 votes
    1d

    Thanks, this is helpful. I’m managing two roof replacements from out of state, so I’ll use the aerial reports to check the estimates, then have the roofer verify the measurements and give me a complete materials list before I order. I’ll also get the waste factor and responsibility for shortages or leftover materials in writing. Appreciate the advice!

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  • Shaharyaar Erea
    Rental Property Investor · Dubai, United Arab Emirates · Member since 2026 · 21 posts · 0 votes
    23h

    ​"Great insights shared already! Since you're managing this completely out-of-state, one extra tip to protect your margins is to open a direct account with a local supplier (like ABC Supply or SRS Distribution) rather than letting the contractor buy everything under their account. This way, you avoid hidden contractor markups on materials, get exact wholesale pricing, and can arrange direct delivery to the site. Also, setting up a milestone-based payment structure ensures quality control before final sign-off. Best of luck with the roof replacements!"

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    • Adam GardnerPro Member
      OP
      Investor · Ladson, SC · Member since 2022 · 8 posts · 9 votes
      9h

      Thanks for the insight. I will definitely look into opening account

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  • Jim Johnson
    Real Estate Agent · Memphis · Member since 2026 · 549 posts · 317 votes
    6h

    GAF QuickMeasure should get you close enough for pricing, but before actually ordering the materials I’d send the report to the roofer and have them confirm the quantities and waste. Especially being out of state, I wouldn’t want to find out halfway through the job that the order was short on shingles, ridge cap, starter, or another item. You can still purchase the materials yourself and control that cost, just let the installer sign off on the order first.

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