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How to Create Estimates (An Overview)

 

Roof Chief's estimate process is structured to help you create the best bid for the project step by step, from measurements to final pricing.

Starting a New Estimate

You can create an estimate in two ways: Method 1: Find your contact first, then click Estimates to see if any estimates exist for this customer. Method 2: Use the Plus button and click New Estimate, then search for your contact by typing their name.

Setting Up Your Estimate

When creating a new estimate, you'll configure three key settings:

  1. Select Contact - Confirm you're working on the right customer
  2. Name the Estimate - Give it a descriptive name like "CertainTeed System" or "Front Half Only" to help you identify it later
  3. Choose Workflow - Select the service type (re-roof, repair, siding, gutters) which determines what measurements and products you'll see
The Estimate Process

Once you create the estimate, you'll work through several sections on the left side: Measurements - Enter roof dimensions and details Materials and Labor - Select products and calculate costs Tear-off - Add tear-off costs if needed (optional) Permits - Include permit costs if applicable Other Costs - Capture miscellaneous expenses like crew meals or protective materials Sales Price - Set your final bid amount Notes - Add any important project details

Working with Measurements

Roof Chief connects with EagleView to provide Instant Insights, which gives you roof images and basic measurements within 30-60 seconds. You can use these as a starting point or enter measurements manually. For roof sections, you can add dimensions, existing layers, and roof pitch. You'll also enter standard roofing measurements like eaves, hips, rakes, ridges, valleys, and waste factor. The software automatically calculates related measurements based on your inputs.

Materials and Labor

This is the core of your estimate. You can:

  • Switch between product collections (like changing from GAF to CertainTeed products)
  • Add items from your catalog for special products
  • Adjust quantities as needed
  • Change product colors and specifications
  • Swap out products easily
  • Use the search function to quickly find specific items like underlayment or nails
Adding Special Items

For unusual products or one-time items, you can add them directly to the estimate. Keep "Other Costs" for non-product expenses like equipment rental or crew meals.

Finalizing Your Estimate

Review all sections, adjust quantities and pricing as needed, and set your final sales price. The software calculates everything automatically based on your inputs, giving you accurate job costs to build your bid.