Transparency

How our planning tools work

Direct answer: HomeQuoteCheck separates published evidence from its own modeling assumptions, keeps disagreement between sources visible, and labels what each tool cannot know.

A useful estimate should show where the range came from, what assumptions it made, and what it still does not know.

DECISION ARCHITECTURE How a HomeQuoteCheck model becomes a public result Evidence stays separate from our assumptions. 1Source evidence2Normalize scope3Modelassumptions4Planning outputReview & version HomeQuoteCheck · Transparent Home Decision Lab
HomeQuoteCheck decision visual for /methodology/. Use this structure to verify contractor proposal scope.
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01

Use multiple source types

We compare consumer-market cost datasets with standardized industry benchmarks rather than copying one headline average.

02

Keep disagreement visible

Roof cost sources can disagree because project scope, roof size, geography and data collection methods differ. We use ranges rather than hiding that uncertainty.

03

Separate evidence from assumptions

Published cost bands are source anchors. HomeQuoteCheck modifiers and planning midpoints are labeled as model assumptions.

Roofing cost model v1 · August 14, 2026

The current national roof replacement model uses four source anchors:

  • HomeAdvisor: broad installed national cost-per-square-foot and material bands. Source
  • Angi: current replacement-cost context and major cost drivers. Source
  • Journal of Light Construction Cost vs. Value: standardized 30-square replacement benchmarks. Source
  • Instant Roofer: large contractor-input national asphalt replacement dataset. Source

The first public model intentionally does not apply ZIP-code pricing. It also excludes decking repairs, permit fees, unusual tear-off scope, flashing/skylight counts, gutters, structural work and insurance adjustments until those variables have defensible data contracts.

Roof Quote Checker v1

The checklist's core industry anchor is Kentucky Roofing Contractors Association proposal guidance. Its scope categories include roofing material, underlayment/water protection, removal and replacement scope, flashing, ventilation, dates and payment procedures.

Kentucky Roofing Contractors Association FAQ

HomeQuoteCheck adds project-administration categories such as hidden decking, cleanup, warranty and change-order handling. The completeness score is a HomeQuoteCheck heuristic, not an industry standard or contractor grade.

Repair or Replace v1

The decision model uses homeowner guidance from the National Roofing Contractors Association and Owens Corning. It treats roof age as one signal rather than a diagnosis, and gives priority to widespread deterioration, repeated leaks/repairs, storm concerns, unknowns and structural-risk signals.

This model is directional decision support. It does not determine safety, structural condition, insurability or code compliance.

Frequently asked questions

Are HomeQuoteCheck planning midpoints quoted from one source?

No. Planning midpoints and complexity modifiers are HomeQuoteCheck modeling assumptions built around multiple source anchors.

Why don't you show ZIP-level pricing yet?

Because the current data contract does not support reliable repeatable ZIP-level precision. We prefer visible uncertainty over fake specificity.

How often should the models be reviewed?

When source datasets materially change, when a major model assumption changes, or when the stated data version becomes stale enough to undermine the planning use case.

Our rule

Every estimate or decision tool must identify its data/review version, assumptions, applicability limits, variables most likely to change the result, and a clear next step. Tools are planning aids, not bids or professional inspections.