A roof is a significant investment, so you want to hire a contractor who will take the time to do a quality job and honor any warranties. Asking the right questions can help you avoid scams and choose a roofing contractor who has your best interests in mind.
What Type of Roof Do I Need?
The type of roof that you need depends on the style and layout of your home, as well as your region’s climate. Flat roofs are preferable in areas with heavy rainfall or major storms because they offer stability and allow water to run off quickly.
Asphalt shingles are popular because they’re durable and affordable. However, they are prone to heat damage in hot summers.
What Type of Roof Do I Want?
The type of roof you want can affect the look of your house. It can also be a factor in your budget. There are many different types of roofs, but the 5 most common include asphalt shingles, metal, synthetic, cedar shake and slate.
Each roof shape has its benefits. For example, flat roofs can be more cost-efficient than pitched roofs in hot regions with much sun exposure.
What Type of Materials Do I Want?
Few home improvement projects have a bigger impact on energy-efficiency and long-term inhabitability than the roof. Make sure the renovation contractor knows what type of materials you want and has experience installing them properly.
Ask for the company’s full name and physical address, then run this information through websites like Better Business Bureau to check for red flags. You should also ask the contractor what steps they take to protect your property during the project.
How Long Will The Project Take?
There are several factors that can affect how long it takes to complete a roofing project. A reputable roofer should be able to provide a reasonable timeline for the job and notify you of any unexpected delays.
They should also be able to provide you with names and contact details of homeowners who have had their roofs replaced by them. This way you can get honest testimonials about their work.
How Do I Get a Warranty?
A warranty is essential to protect yourself and your home. Make sure the roofing company you hire offers a comprehensive manufacturer and workmanship warranty.
Ask the roofing contractor for their full name, address, and phone number. You should also check online reviews and the Better Business Bureau to see what others have said about them. This information is important because it can help you determine if they are local and have a good reputation.
How Do I Pay For The Project?
When it comes to paying for your roofing project, you should discuss the different options with your contractor. Ideally, you should pay cash or with a reputable lender who will offer a home equity loan.
You should also ask your roofing contractor about their insurance policy. Specifically, you should make sure they have Workman’s Compensation and General Liability insurance. This will protect you in the event that one of their workers gets injured on your property.
What Happens If I Have Any Issues After The Project is Completed?
Roofing contractors should be licensed and insured. This protects you in the event that one of their employees is injured. Insurance also covers damages caused by the contractor to your property.
Ask for the full name and physical address of the company. Plug this information into Better Business Bureau, social media sites and other online databases to look for any red flags.
Roofing contractors that have been in business for a long time are likely to be reputable. They will have a history of satisfied customers to share with you.
Manufacturer warranties typically can’t be transferred to a new homeowner, but you should ask about any limited warranty they may offer.
You should also ask about their workers’ compensation and general liability insurance. This will ensure that you’re protected in case something goes wrong during the project.
