The Ugly Truth About Cheap Roof Replacements in
Lancaster, PA
If you’re a homeowner in Lancaster, PA, searching for a new roof, it’s tempting to look for the cheapest quote and be done with it. After all, it’s just a roof, right?
But here’s the ugly truth:
Cheap roof replacements cost homeowners more in the long run — in money, stress, anddamage.
At Craftsman Roofing Group, we’ve seen it firsthand. We’ve been called in to fix what cheap contractors left behind. And we’re here to help you avoid becoming the next horror story.
Why “Cheap” Usually Means “Cut Corners”
Some roofers are able to offer unbelievably low prices for one simple reason: They’re not giving you a complete roofing system. They’re cutting corners you can’t see — corners that won’t show up until it’s too late.
Here’s where they often cut:
Low-quality shingles that curl, fade, and fail within 8–10 years
No synthetic underlayment, just old-school felt that absorbs moisture
Missing drip edge or flashing, which causes hidden water damage
No ridge vent or attic ventilation, trapping heat and moisture in your home
Unlicensed labor and no supervision
Zero warranties — or ones they’ll never honor
“We thought we were saving $2,000. Two years later, we spent $9,000 fixing it.”
– Kevin S., homeowner in Lititz
What a Cheap Roof Replacement Looks Like After 3–5 Years
- Shingles lifting and blowing off
- Roof leaks during Lancaster’s heavy spring rains
- Mold in the attic from poor ventilation
- Sagging decking or visible dips in the roofline
- Insurance denying claims because the roof wasn’t installed to code
- And worst of all... no one to answer your calls
Why Some Roofers Don’t Care
Let’s be honest:
Fly-by-night roofers are betting that you won’t notice the shortcuts until they’re long gone. They’ll:
- Use leftover materials from other jobs
- Sub out the work to untrained day labor
- “Forget” the ice and water shield
- Disappear once they get paid
They count on the fact that most homeowners don’t go up on the roof to inspect the job.
How to Spot a Too-Good-to-Be-True Estimate
If a roofer in Lancaster gives you a bid that’s $2,000–$5,000 lower than everyone else, ask:
- What brand and grade of shingles are being used?
- Does it include synthetic underlayment and ridge venting?
- Will they replace bad plywood or just shingle over it?
- Is flashing, drip edge, and ice/water shield included?
- What type of warranty, if any, are you getting?
If they can’t answer these clearly and confidently — walk away.
What a High-Integrity Roof Quote Looks Like
At Craftsman Roofing Group, our estimates are detailed, transparent, and complete. We include:
- A full roofing system (not just shingles)
- Premium synthetic underlayment
- Ice and water shield in vulnerable areas
- Ridge vent and proper attic ventilation
- Flashing and drip edge replacement
- Photo documentation before, during, and after
- A real warranty, backed by the manufacturer
“They were $1,500 more than the lowest quote we got — but it was worth every penny. The roof looks amazing, and I know it’s done right.”
– Sarah M., Lancaster homeowner
The Bottom Line: Don’t Gamble With Your Roof
A cheap roof isn’t a deal — it’s a ticking time bomb. And in a place like Lancaster, where we see everything from freezing winters to humid summers, your roof is your home’s first and last line of defense.
Don’t let a low bid turn into a big mistake.
Get a Quote You Can Trust
We built Craftsman Roofing Group to be the most transparent, trustworthy roofing company in Lancaster County. No pressure. No surprises. Just honest, high-quality roofing — done right the first time.
Get your free instant quote online in 60 seconds or less.
No sales pitch. No obligation. Just answers.
Visit choosecraftsman.com
Proudly serving Lancaster, York, and surrounding areas.
