10 Tips to Find a Great Roofing Contractor
The best roofing contractors are dedicated to using high-quality materials and providing excellent workmanship. They also focus on customer service. This is important because the roof is crucial to the comfort, structural integrity, and resale value of your home.
You should check review websites to make sure that the roofing contractor you choose is legitimate. However, you should be aware that not all reviews are created equal.
1. Look for a Local Contractor
If you want to make a truly informed decision about which contractor to hire for your roof repair or replacement, you need to check out their credentials. The best way to do this is to visit job sites that they have worked on in the past.
This will give you a chance to see their work in person and talk to previous clients about their experience. It’s also an excellent opportunity to assess whether their craftsmanship matches your aesthetic preferences.
2. Check Their Credentials
It’s important to take the time to meet with potential contractors and scope out the job at hand. It helps to understand what is being done to your roof and allows you to monitor the work as it happens.
You should always check for state licenses, insurance coverage, and manufacturer warranty credentials before selecting a contractor. A reputable contractor will have these credentials and will be willing to show them to you.
3. Ask for References
Roofing references are a great way to get a firsthand account of how a contractor performs. Generally, roofing contractors who are proud of their work will be happy to share their references with you.
Ask them if they would rehire the contractor for their next roofing project and why or why not. This is a good indicator of their quality of work and how they treat clients after the job is completed.
4. Get a Quote
A homeowner should always get a quote from contractors before committing to a project. This can prevent misunderstandings and unnecessary costs.
There are software apps that simplify the quoting process and offer other benefits as well, such as analytics. Some roofing contractors use them to provide more detailed quotes faster than ever before. They also ensure consistency in presentation. This builds trust with clients.
5. Get a Written Contract
Having a written contract will help to keep both you and your contractor on the same page. This can include everything from the price breakdown to how and when payments will be made.
It is important to always get a warranty in writing. This will protect you in case there is a dispute over workmanship or any other issue. A good contractor will have no problem providing you with a reasonable warranty.
6. Get a Job Quote
A great roofing contractor will include all the details in a job quote. This includes the cost of materials and labor, as well as any other costs like dumpster rentals, permits, and porta-potties.
A good roofer will also have a positive attitude. If a potential candidate whines about their rejection rate, they’re probably not the best fit for your business. This is a sign of their negative attitude and can affect the quality of work they provide.
7. Get a Timeline
When it comes to maintaining your home or business, roofing contractors are an essential part of keeping your property in good condition. However, not all contractors are created equal.
Some are known as storm chasers who descend on areas affected by severe weather and do shoddy work to make quick cash.
To combat this, some roofing contractors have had success handing out “help wanted” flyers at local amateur sports events or at building supply stores.
8. Get a Payment Plan
A roofing company should offer at least a one-year warranty on labor. Ideally, look for one that offers a lifetime warranty.
Some companies also provide financing options. This is typically offered through a personal loan with rates that vary based on credit score. This option can help make a new roof more affordable for many homeowners.
9. Get a Good Attitude
A great roofing contractor will care about their employees and customers. They will also respect the homes they work on.
They will often partner with other strong, reputable businesses in their area. This is a good sign that they are serious about giving back to the community.
A great roofing company will promote their business through social media and word-of-mouth. They will also make sure that they are insured and licensed to do business in their state.
10. Get a Great Roof
Replacing a roof is a big investment. It is important to find a quality contractor for the best results. Avoid contractors who are too cheap. They may cut corners that could cost you in the long run.
Quality roofing contractors are experienced, reputable, and provide high-quality workmanship. They also make sure to protect areas around your house, including landscaping. They also provide great warranties.
