A new roof is a large investment, and one of the most important exterior components of any building. It’s important to take time and find the right contractor for your roofing situation.
Look for a roofer that is proud of their work and has photos of past projects. You also want to make sure that they are licensed and insured.
1. Do Your Research
It’s important to do your homework when looking for a great roofing contractor. This will help you avoid any potential problems down the road.
You should also check out the company’s website and social media profiles. A website that’s well-maintained and contains positive reviews is a good sign.
It’s also a good idea to find out how long the company has been in business and who owns it. Also, be wary of companies that only accept cash payments.
2. Ask for References
Word of mouth referrals are a great way to find out about local roofing contractors. However, if you want a more reliable and detailed account of their past work, ask for references!
You may have heard horror stories of roofers who swooped in on unsuspecting property owners, demanding a large down payment and disappearing before the job was done. Respected contractors will be able to provide you with references that can attest to their work quality, communication skills and professionalism.
3. Be Patient
After a severe storm, homeowners often want to get their roof repaired or replaced as quickly as possible. However, it’s important to take your time and find a quality contractor.
The best roofing contractors have a dedicated team that works full-time and know how to do the job right. They also have the experience to handle any problems that may arise during the project.
4. Ask for a Written Contract
A written contract is important because it can help both parties refer back to the original document if any disagreements arise. It’s also required by statute of frauds laws in some states.
Ask your contractor what kind of materials they use and how they plan to protect your home during the project. They should have a detailed process in place and be able to provide you with a contract that includes their processes.
5. Meet the Contractor in Person
Whether you’re getting a new roof or just need some repair work, meeting your contractor in person is important. Seeing their portfolio of past jobs and customer testimonials can help you determine how well they work with homeowners.
It’s also an opportunity to see how they communicate and compare pricing estimates. Be sure to ask about permitting, labour costs, and insurance requirements.
6. Read the Contract
You want to make sure you get everything in writing before making any commitments. This includes the contract itself, as well as a clear timeframe for when the job will be done.
This should also include information about the roofing materials that will be used, any warranties or guarantees and more. Getting this information in writing will help protect you from scams and other problems down the road.
7. Stay in Touch
When it comes to roofing, quality is key. You’ll want to keep in touch with your contractor to ensure the project is progressing as expected.
Ask your contractor if they are licensed, and if they carry workers’ comp and liability insurance for their employees. Lastly, inquire about roofing material warranties from the manufacturers they work with. These details will help you feel confident in your decision.
8. Make Sure They’re Insured
Roofing contractors have unique insurance needs. It’s important to make sure that your roofing contractor has proper coverage, including workers’ compensation and general liability.
There are a lot of horror stories about “storm chasers” who swoop in, pressure you to sign a contract and then disappear before the work is done. Choosing a contractor who is properly insured will help protect you from these types of scams.
9. Ask for a Quote
You should always request a quote before you agree to any work. This will help ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money.
A good roofing company will be more than happy to provide you with a free consultation and price quote. You should also ask for a portfolio that includes testimonials and visual evidence of previous jobs. This will give you a better sense of their experience and craftsmanship.
10. Do Your Homework
It’s important to spend time researching roofing contractors and evaluating references. You want a contractor who will complete the job as promised and is committed to standing behind their work.
If possible, visit a business that sells the roofing materials you plan to use and ask to talk with the general manager or owner. Learn about the product and get their opinion on whether it would work well on your home.
