[widebody911]

I need a new roof, and I've started getting estimates. What should I be looking for, and what questions should I be asking? I'm going from shake to comp, and I already know the shingles I need (to match my shop).

So far 3 contractors have come out to give me estimates.

Contractor #1: shows up in a huge turbo diesel 4x4 parked bass-ackwards the wrong direction across my driveway, with the company logo on a magnet on the door. Gelled, blown dry hair, white shirt, too much cologne, looked way too clean to be in construction. Didn't ask a lot of questions, and wrote his quote on the back of a business card - thats it. $7800, 2 week lead time.

Contractor #2: drove a mini van, dressed more like an state office worker. Asked a few questions, worked up a quote, and gave me a packet with all kinds of glossy handouts about the company, as well as some info about their insurance and license status, as well as refs. $9300, 2 week lead time.

Contractor #3: standard contractor pickup, simple polo shirt with the company name. This guy looked like he'd spent some time on quite a few roofs. He took the most time looking things over and asking questions, and even took a look at roof from the bottom side. He also suggested using the foil-backed sheathing; I was aware of this stuff, but neither of the other guys asked. He worked up a quote and left a detailed packet about the materials, insurance and license stuff. $8300, 1 week lead time.

Contractor #4: never showed up.