Most roofing quotes look the same at first glance. Then install day arrives and the differences show up. Missing trim. Wrong fasteners. Delayed trucks. Small gaps become costly change orders. Bid leveling fixes this by comparing quotes on the full scope, not just a low panel price.
At RPS, we build panels and trim every day and we see both sides. Teams that level their bids finish faster, pass inspection with confidence, and protect their budget. Use the checklist below to compare apples to apples before you award.
Why bid leveling matters
Price is the starting number. The outcome is the finished roof. Leveling your bids puts every component on the table, closes scope gaps, and keeps crews moving. It also builds trust across the owner, GC, roofer, and supplier because expectations are clear from day one.
The bid-leveling checklist
Verify each item in writing on every quote.
Panel profile and coverage width
Exact profile name, rib height, and net coverage. This prevents shortfalls and awkward overlaps.
Gauge and substrate
List the gauge for each panel and trim piece and specify the substrate. Tie it to span, wind zone, and application so you are buying the right strength.
Testing and approvals
Confirm required product approvals and documentation for your jurisdiction. Keep the inspection day smooth.
Finish system and color control
Specify the paint system and color. Ask for batch or lot controls so additions and repairs match later.
Trim package, by piece
Ridge, hip, eave, gable, valleys, transitions, endwalls, sidewalls, J, Z, receivers, and specialty parts. Itemize lengths and counts so nothing is missed.
Underlayment and insulation
List type and thickness if you want it included. Clarify who supplies it and how it ships.
Fasteners, closures, and sealants
Screws, stitch fasteners, rivets, pipe boots, vented and solid closures, butyl tape, foam, and tube sealants. The details that keep water out.
Ventilation and accessories
Ridge vent, off-ridge vents, snow retention if applicable, and any penetrations or curbs.
Takeoff method and waste factor
Note how the supplier measured. Confirm the waste factor, overage policy, and how changes are handled.
Fabrication tolerances
Panel length limits, hem details, striations or beads, clip types for standing seam, and any special cuts.
Lead time and delivery window
Quote the calendar days to fabricate and a delivery window you can schedule around. Include pickup options if you want to stage material.
Offload plan and packaging
Ground unload or on-site forklift. Bundle size, palletization, and damage policy. Fewer surprises when the truck arrives.
Warranty terms
Film integrity, chalk and fade, perforation. Note duration and claim process. Keep copies of the actual forms with the quote.
Price hold and surcharge policy
How long pricing is valid. What happens if coil surcharges change. Clarity avoids last-minute adjustments.
Change order governance
Unit rates for adders, how scope changes are priced, and who approves them. Control the little things before they grow.
Support and contacts
Names, phone numbers, and email for order desk, dispatch, and field support. People you can reach when timing is tight.
How to score partners on trust and value
Give each supplier a simple score from one to five on these areas.
- Completeness of scope
- Clarity of documentation
- Responsiveness and turnaround
- Schedule reliability
- Field support and problem solving
- Past project references
The best partner is the one who helps you finish once, not the one who only wins day one on price.
Common red flags
- Quote lists panels, nothing else
- Gauge or finish is missing or labeled as “standard” with no spec
- Long lead time with vague delivery language
- No mention of closures, sealants, or fasteners
- Warranty described but no document provided
How RPS makes leveling easier
- Complete, leveled quotes with panels, trim, accessories, and delivery in one scope
- Clear specs on profiles, coverage, gauges, finishes, and approvals
- Color confidence with charts and samples so additions match
- Turnaround that keeps crews moving including scheduled delivery and Jacksonville counter pickup
- Real support for takeoffs, panel selection, and field questions
The takeaway
Stop buying the cheapest number. Buy the best outcome. When you level bids, scope the whole system, and partner with a supplier you trust, you cut change orders, protect your schedule, and get a roof that performs.
Ready for a leveled quote that includes panels, trim, accessories, and delivery, reach out and our team will price the complete package so you can build it right the first time.