Are You Replacing Your Roof?
The biggest decision you’ll make while re-roofing your home is choosing a roofing contractor. This person will help you choose the right materials, assess the current state of your home and ensure your family is protected from rain, snow, hail and leaks that bring rot and mold.
How do you choose a roofing contractor that you can trust? Online searches and Yellow Pages references will produce dozens of companies in your area. Not to mention the national companies and “storm chasers” that roll into town after a big hail storm or wind event. Choosing a roofing contractor is the most important part of re-roofing your home.
How to Choose a Roofing Contractor?
Research Regional Roofing Contractors
- Ask friends and neighbors who have recently replaced roofs for recommendations.
- Call your local roofing material suppliers for recommendations.
- Search the internet and read reviews to find out which companies do a great job and which draw complaints.
- Make sure the contractor you choose has a local address. You want to make sure they are around if you have any LATEST issues.
Narrow Down Your Option
- Make sure each contractor you consider has experience installing the roofing material you want. Metal panels, asphalt shingles, and cedar shakes require separate skills that not all contractors possess.
- Ask for proof of insurance and licensing.
- Ask for references from past clients.
Get a Roofing Quote
- Make sure you get at least three different quotes.
- Compare those quotes to see what each contractor includes. One estimate may be higher because they include tearing off the old roof, disposing of old materials, and a stipend for replacing damaged or rotted plywood substrate.
- If your quote doesn’t cover these steps, you can ask the contractor what the additional cost would be to include them.
- Ask each contractor for estimated time lines of project completion.
Meet with Your Contractor to Discuss the Details of Your Roof Replacement
- Decide on a start date.
- Set a reasonable end date for the installation and clean up to be finished.
- Set a payment schedule. It’s a good rule of thumb to set the final payment when work is complete.
- Decide where materials should be dropped off and how much space the contractor and crew require to work.
- Discuss any warranties on product or workmanship.
- Include all of these decisions in your contract.
If you’re looking for a roofing contractor due to a hail storm or other weather event, don’t rush into signing with the first roofing contractor you can get in contact with. Be sure to talk with your insurance company to see what costs will be covered before choosing a roofing contractor as well. Choosing the right roofing contractor can be the difference between a smooth installation and a leaking roof down the road. Make sure you do your research to get the most qualified professional for your roof, ensuring a durable and worry-free roofing solution for years to come.
