If your roof’s shingles start to deteriorate, it’s about time to do a replacement as early as possible. Done right, a brand new roof can be a valuable investment. But, if it’s done wrong, minor issues may turn into a costly one which means more money and time spent on your end. Before choosing a roofing contractor for your house, there are plenty of things to consider from the very beginning. Read on this article as we’ll provide you with a list of questions to ask when making a hiring decision.
1. How long have you been in operation?: Of course, you want your roof replacement to be successful. For excellent results, the roofing company should have valuable years of experience in the business. Keep in mind, a roofer who has repaired and installed hundreds of roofs is trustworthy because they have been in operation for quite some time. Having served several clients means they exactly know what they’re doing.
2. What are your company name and physical address?: It’s always worthwhile to work with a contractor who has a company name and a physical location. Speaking with them will be much easier if you know where to find them later on. If your prospective roofer doesn’t give you an address, it’s time to walk away and look for someone else.
3. Are you licensed and insured?: When it comes to the roofing industry, most states require roofers to be licensed as well as insured before doing any project. However, a contractor must possess the right knowledge and skills before they can apply for a license. That way, you’ll know whether they legally follow your state’s building codes and regulations. Moreover, roofers should have an insurance coverage to safeguard homeowners in case an accident may happen. Without the insurance, you may be responsible for some medical expenses arising from the injury which means you may have to spend a ton of money.
4. Who will be doing the work?: The contractor you choose should be the very person who will do the work for you. Be sure they will not pass the project to someone you don’t know. However, there are times that any part of the job will be done by a subcontractor. With this in mind, you should find the time to clarify this issue to your roofer before the project begins. More importantly, never hesitate to ask them whether they’re also insured or not.
5. Can you give some homeowner references?: You can get the most out of your hiring decision if you ask for some references and check the contractor’s previous roofing works. Call at least three homeowners and ask them whether they’re happy and satisfied with the performance. However, if the roofer is more likely hesitant to give information about their past clients, it’s time to move on and consider some other options.
6. How do you determine your price?: A roof replacement requires you to shell out a considerable amount of money. Although you want a high-quality job, you also want to know whether you’ll get an outstanding value or not. For instance, the lowest price doesn’t necessarily give the best value. When it comes to getting price estimates, ask the roofer what exactly it includes. Get to know the factors that may affect the price such as the materials needed, the extent of roof damage and the number of people who will be working. These are the things that may impact your budget.
7. What kinds of materials you’ll use?: As a homeowner, you may not be familiar with the different kinds of roofing materials you can use for your house. Yet, the roofer is expected to have a deep knowledge of the options available and the materials which are best suited to your needs. Lastly, make sure your contractor you choose teams up with some roofing materials manufacturers who deliver high-quality materials and installation services.
8. Do you offer warranties?: Don’t forget to ask the roofing contractor about the warranties you can avail afterward. Get an idea as to how long they can guarantee their work. A typical warranty only lasts a year but some offer a longer period. Also, the manufacturer warrants for the materials but the roofer takes responsibility for the labor. Take note, these two warranties should be separate, so you better ask your potential contractor if they cover both.
In conclusion: Is it time to replace your roof? If so, be sure to ask these questions when you’re choosing the roofing contractor. That way, you’ll have an idea of what you should expect from a legitimate contractor who is worthy of your time, money and energy. If you live in Salt Lake City, get your roof properly replaced by a reputable roofing Salt Lake City contractor.
