You need a contractor for your roofing project, but aren’t sure where you should look? You can start your search by asking your neighbors, or Homeowner Associations (HOA), to recommend a roofer. Check your state’s requirements and directory for roofing contractors. You can also read and find reviews.
To schedule consultations, call at least two to three local roofers. Verify references, reviews, qualifications, compare bids, and negotiate the final cost. Here are the details of how to contract the roofing service that’s right for you.
Qualifications for Roofing Contractors
The criteria for a municipality’s roofing contractor must be met. Before hiring, verify your state’s directories and qualifications for roofing contractors.
A good roofing contractor is:
Experienced
You are licensed in your area
You are covered
Bonded refers to money that a bonding agency has available to a consumer should they need it in the case of a claim.
Willing to provide references
Willingness to give an estimate
Services offered by a Roofer
Roof services can vary greatly from one contractor to another. Ask the three roofers you are interested in working together about the services they offer. The following are common roofing services:
Roof inspections that inspect for:
Leaks
Destruction
Repairs and maintenance
Installation or replacement
Weatherproofing
Insulating
Ventilating
Shoveling is the process of removing snow and/or creating ice dams.
Roof cleaning (pressure washing away mildews, moss, and buildup)
Sealing, treating, or painting (especially for metal roofs or wood)
Debris Removal
When you’re replacing a roof, it’s a good idea to check your gutters. Some roofers also provide gutter, siding, or window services. Ask professionals in your community if other services are available. The contractor will already be on the site and can tackle both the roofing and gutters simultaneously. This will save you money over the long-term.
How to hire a roofer
There are two types of roofing contractors you should consider when hiring one. Both have pros and cons. Always compare bids to get the best price. Also, make sure to check references and reviews of roofers near me.
Quick repairs can be made by independent roofing contractors. They can either work on their own or with subcontractors so it might take longer to complete larger projects like replacing your roof. However, they may be specialists in certain styles. It can be risky to hire someone, but you will see the same person every day for the duration of your project.
Roofing companies have a higher rate of completion of large jobs, are covered by warranties from the manufacturer, offer discounts and free consultations, as well as work with more materials. It is possible that you will not have the same point-of-contact for each phase of the project.
Questions to Ask a Roofer
Interviewing contractors can be a key step in hiring the right roofer. Here are the things to ask:
What types of roofing materials can you use?
Do you collaborate with homeowners insurance to file claims
Are you currently licensed to do this type of work in my locality?
What kind of insurance do I have? And what are the terms of my coverage?
I need to verify the information.
Do you offer a free inspection on-site?
Do you take photos during the inspection or after the project is completed?
Do you have a written estimate for me after the inspection?
Do you offer roofing repairs? What are the costs?
Is your work protected by a manufacturer’s warranty?
How do projects stay on time? What is your policy on inclement conditions?
Are old roofing materials to be removed or disposed of? Is there any disposal fee? Do you recycle old materials or are there disposal charges?
When and how do bill/invoice? Do you accept credit card payments? Do you offer financing
Selecting the Right Roofer
Before you decide on the roofing contractor that is right for your needs, make sure to get bids form several roofing contractors. You could choose the most reasonable and middle-of-the road bid, or the one with the best pricing and availability. With the right budget you may choose to go with the roofer that has 20 years experience in installing the type and size of roof you desire.
No matter which bidding option you choose, be sure that your roofer holds the appropriate qualifications.
If you have an idea of the type and style of roofing you would like, you might find fewer contractors in your region. While many roofers can repair and install asphalt shingles on their own, very few are familiar with other materials such as cedar shakes clay tiles or natural slate. Green roofs and solar shingles are unique styles that require specialization, and may not be easily found in rural areas.
Door-to door bids can be dangerous when a roofer visits homes that have been affected by high winds and storms. Before accepting a bid from local roofers to repair or replace your roofs, make sure they have insurance, a license and references.
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