How to Pick the Right Roofing Contractor for Your Home
Getting a new roof is a major investment into your home. You want an experienced contractor to install a roof that will protect your home for years to come. Getting the right contractor can make all the difference when it comes to a quality roof.
Hiring the best roofing contractor for your home is easy when you take a few simple steps to evaluate the roofing professionals in your area. Here’s how you can pick the right roofing contractor for your home!
Get Recommendations from People You Trust
Before you begin your search, begin by asking people you trust if they have someone they can recommend. Whether you ask coworkers, family, friends, or neighbors, ask them if they’ve had to hire a roofing contractor and what their experience with their choice was.
Asking people you know and trust is one of the best ways to find a local professional who does quality work. If you don’t have anyone you can ask, you can begin your search online and simply ask the company for references.
Schedule Estimates with up to Three Contractors
Once you have a few prospects in mind, schedule estimates with up to three contractors in your area. You can get an idea of pricing and also ask the roofer questions about their experience. You can and should get an estimate in writing; this will help protect you should you choose to move forward with the contractor in question.
During your estimate, take note of what the contractor notices about your roof. Are they seeing all the granules in the gutter? What about that bald spot near the chimney? Don’t trust a contractor who doesn’t conduct an in-person estimate, or simply glances at your roof and then gives you a price.
Be Clear About Warranties
During your estimate, you can ask the contractor about the warranties they provide. Most roofing professionals provide a manufacturer’s warranty, which will cover the materials used, and a workmanship warranty, which will cover the quality of the installation.
Ask your potential roofing contractor what warranties they offer, what that warranty covers, and how long it lasts. The warranty should cover leaks, damaged materials, and other problems that could result from a labor defect. Your contractor should offer quality materials that last a long time, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t also offer a warranty.
Ask How Your Home Will Be Protected
When it comes to the actual job of your roofing company, ask them how they’ll protect your property while the roofing job is underway. They should make arrangements to protect any plants that are near the house as well as your lawn and driveway. A roof replacement is a major job that will impact your home for a few days, so you want to know that the company will clean up their mess both during and after the job.
You can also inquire about how used materials will be disposed of and what their process is for cleaning up nails. Their method should reveal a lot about how they work and the kind of care they take when working at your home, so don’t trust a company that doesn’t have a set procedure for their cleanup.
Choosing Your Best Contractor
Above all when hiring a contractor, be sure to trust your instincts. The right roofing contractor will be competent, communicate clearly, and be happy to explain their warranties, insurance policies, and procedures for cleaning up.
When it’s time to get your roof evaluated for a replacement or a repair, contact your local roofing companies to schedule estimates and ensure your home is set up for the best possible job with the best possible people!