A Step by Step Guide to Finding a Good Roofing Contractor
Whether you need to replace an old roof or are fixing a leaky one, choosing the right roofing contractor is vitally important. The wrong roofing contractor can lead to a huge disaster and cost you a lot of money.
The right roofing contractor will have the experience, knowledge and skills to ensure quality workmanship and protection of your biggest investment - your home. This step by step guide will help you find the perfect contractor.
Get Recommendations
One tried and true way to find a good roofing contractor is by asking for recommendations from friends and family. If someone you know has had their roof replaced recently, ask if they were happy with the work and who they hired to do it.
You can also ask at your local lumber yard or hardware store for names of reputable contractors. Once you've identified a few potential candidates, verify their credentials to avoid getting scammed. This includes confirming state licensing, insurance coverage, sector qualifications and more.
You should also check their website for reviews and testimonials from past clients. A reputable roofing contractor will be happy to share this information with you. Additionally, you should be able to see examples of their work on properties like yours. Be wary of any contractors who refuse to provide this information. This could be a sign that they're a storm chaser and are trying to take advantage of homeowners.
Get Quotes
The Internet is a great tool for narrowing down your list of roofing contractors. Check out websites, read reviews and ask friends and family about their experiences with roofing contractors that replaced their roofs. A reputable roofing contractor will be willing to provide references and examples of previous work on homes similar to yours.
It's important to get a quote from each potential roofing contractor before hiring one for your project. Ask for a breakdown of the cost, the materials and the scope of work to be done. It's also helpful to have a timeline for completion so there are no surprises down the road.
During the consultation, look for a contractor who is enthusiastic, knowledgeable and professional in demeanor. Any red flags like an impatient or dismissive attitude should raise some serious alarms. Remember, this roofing contractor is going to be working on one of your most significant investments – your home! roof installation expert Taking your time to find a qualified roofing contractor will ensure that you're getting the quality of work that you deserve.
Look at Their Work
During your consultations, ask contractors to give you examples of their work. A robust portfolio shows that they have experience with a wide range of roofing materials and styles, and that they are comfortable adapting to different needs.
Look for contractors that have a local presence and who are familiar with your city’s regulations and codes. Ideally, the contractor should also be licensed and insured in your state. Insist on seeing proof of insurance coverage, and make sure it includes liability and workers’ compensation.
You should also check how long a company has been in business. While this may not be the only factor to consider, it does indicate how established they are and their level of expertise. A well-established company is likely to be more stable, which is important for your project, especially if it involves a significant investment. You should also check whether the company belongs to any trade associations, which suggests that it is committed to following professional standards and best practices.
Ask Questions
A good roofing contractor will be willing and able to answer all of your questions. It’s also important to ask how they handle unexpected developments and change orders. This will give you an idea of how proactive they are, as well as their ability to follow through on their work.
Another question to ask is about manufacturer warranties and workmanship guarantees. A quality roofing company will be able to explain the benefits of each and help you determine which options are best for your home.
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of contractors, be sure to visit a jobsite. If you are able, ask to see the roof and talk with the project manager. Observe how the team interacts, their communication skills, and how they work together to ensure the job is done right. It’s also important to note whether the contractor is a local professional, and what their experience has been with different roofing materials and projects in your area.