Hiring a roofing contractor requires many considerations. Whether you need minor repairs to your commercial roof or an entire roof replacement for your home, it’s important to be sure that the roofing company you choose is trustworthy and will get the job done right. One way to ensure you’re making the best choice is exploring the best questions to ask a roofing contractor.
Check out these questions to ask when getting a roof estimate.
Can You Provide Written Estimates?
It is essential to receive a written estimate from a roofing contractor that details the roofing material, scope of their work and any other expenses that may arise during the job. A detailed estimate will give you a breakdown of the costs, and you won’t get any unexpected surprises when it’s time to pay the bill.
Do You Have References?
You want to get a range of information about a roofing contractor before you trust them to complete your project. References from previous customers will tell you everything you need to know about the company’s operations. Ask the contractor to give you an estimate to provide references from several previous projects that the company has worked on. A reputable company that takes pride in its work and quality of service will be more than happy to provide you with references.
Do You Offer Any Warranties?
Many roofing contractors offer workmanship warranties that can range in duration. There are also warranties for roofing materials that the manufacturers usually cover. These are two separate warranties. Ask prospective roofing companies about the warranties they offer and the length of each one.
Where Is Your Business Located?
When you’re hiring a roofing contractor, ask where their physical office is located. It’s usually best to choose a reliable roofing contractor that is local to your area. This local presence helps reduce travel time and ensures the contractor will work in accordance with applicable building codes and meet the necessary requirements of your region. Any roofing contractor that does not have a physical location or fails to provide you with their address is a cause for concern.
Are You Licensed and Insured?
Many states require roofing contractors to be licensed, but the requirements differ by location. It’s important to find out if the roofing contractor you plan to work with is licensed in the state and city they provide services in and ensure that the license is up to date.
Roofing contractors should also have general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. Working with a fully insured company means your property is protected throughout the length of the project, and workers are covered while completing the job as well. Before signing on with a specific roofing contractor, you can request to see proof of their insurance coverage.
How Long Have You Been in Business?
Asking about the roofing contractor’s experience and history is one way to find out how reliable their services are. A company that has been in business for a significant number of years and continues serving the area will have plenty of references and be equipped to handle various roofing issues. At the same time, you can also consider newer companies as long as they are local and qualified.
When Can You Start?
It’s important to be aware of the availability of the roofing company, since many contractors may become booked well in advance. Specific roofing projects such as repairing wind damage or fixing leaks may need immediate attention to avoid larger problems in the future. Ask how soon a roofing contractor is available to complete your job, and assess whether your project is more timely or less urgent.
How Long Will the Project Take to Complete?
It’s essential to know how long the roofing project will take from start to finish. While replacing a few shingles might not take long, other projects such as a full roof replacement can take longer. Before choosing a roofing company, you should have an idea of the timeline for the process so you can make any preparations to your home or commercial property in advance.
What Measures Will You Take to Protect My Property?
When you hire a roofing company to service your roof, you want to have peace of mind that the rest of your property will be exactly as it was once the project is complete. Ask each prospective roofing company about the steps they take to safeguard your gutters, lawn, landscaping and interior during the course of the project. Some companies will use tarps and plastic coverings to protect exterior and interior spaces. They may also implement mandatory foot traffic patterns to help protect your landscaping.
What Roofing Material Options Do You Offer?
When you’re considering a roof replacement, you need to know the roofing materials that the company works with and if they can provide the one you’re looking for. A roofing company will often offer various options such as shingles, cedar or metal roofing. If you’re not sure which type of roof you want, consider factors like durability, curb appeal and overall design. An experienced roofing contractor will be able to provide you with a roofing material that best suits your needs.
What Steps Are Involved in the Roof Replacement Process?
A roof replacement is a sizeable project that can take time. It’s important for you to understand the timeline and what the process will entail to ensure you are prepared and can ask any questions in advance. Ask the contractor about each step of the project from start to finish, including the part you will play to make sure there’s no surprises once the roof replacement begins.
Will You Remove My Old Roof?
After performing a visual inspection of your current roof, certain contractors may opt to install new shingles over the old ones instead of completing a total roof replacement. Overlaying your existing roof can be cost-effective and save time, but ultimately it’s a way to cut corners. In the long run, this method may be detrimental down the road if your old shingles have hidden damage underneath. Ask the roofing contractor about their process and assess if their methods will work for the condition of your roofing system.
How Will You Take Care of Debris Material?
Reliable, professional roofing contractors will leave your residential or commercial property exactly as they found it after completing a repair or replacement project. Ask the prospective roofing companies about their plan to collect and dispose of any old roofing materials and debris created in the process. Most contractors will come prepared with large debris containers to remove any damaged roofing material and other hazardous items from your property after the project is complete.
Contact RoofAid USA With Your Questions Today
Knowing what questions to ask a roofer before requesting their services is essential. When looking for a roofing company for your next project, turn to RoofAid USA. We have decades of experience providing quality residential and commercial roofing services using superior materials.
We are available to answer any questions you may have — contact us today or find a location near you!
