If you are looking for a reputable roofer, it is important for a homeowner to know how to find the best roofer.
How to Find the Best Roofer
Did you get 3 bids?
If you are not working with a roofing contractor with an insurance claim on your roof, such as wind damage or hail damage, it is always a good idea to receive 3 separate proposals. Learn as much as you can from each roofing company representative you speak with.
Make sure you take time and make an informed decision. Pay really good attention to what each roofing company recommends, and what type of roofing materials they plan on installing.
Your roof protects your property, family, and belongings. Do your due diligence and research!
How to Find the Best Roofer – Are you thinking of signing with the lowest bidder?
This is not always the most economical way out. If you choose the wrong company it could cost you headaches and more money in the long run. What use is a new roof if it leaks every time it rains?
The lowest bid may be okay and be the company for you but consider this. Has the company clarified verbally and in writing what the exact final cost is and that there are no hidden or additional extra costs involved?
Also, make certain if you choose the lowest bidder that you check the materials they are using when they are delivered to your property. This way you do not get caught up with a company giving you a low bid to get the job and trying to make up profit by installing cheaper material.
Always have the manufacturer brand of roofing material they are stating they will install on your roof in your contract! Are the roofing companies you are considering properly insured and registered?
Are the roofing companies you are considering properly insured and registered?
Make sure the roofing contractors you are choosing between have the proper credentials to work in the state you are in. Also, we all know insurance is very important.
Have the contractor you choose produce up to date insurance documents before beginning any work on your property. An out of date policy does not protect you!
The Best Roofer to Find the Best Options – Do you need a repair or full roof replacement?
This is very important. Make certain if you are getting a roof repair done that a full roof replacement wouldn’t be better and more cost-effective, and vice versa. There is a certain point a roof can still be repaired, and also a point when it is not repairable.
Discuss with your contractor how much lifespan is left on the roof, if a roof is deteriorated to the point where it cannot be repaired correctly then it is time for a full replacement.
Have payment arrangements clearly been specified?
It is always a great idea to check your written agreement you have with the roofing company on what the exact payment arrangements are with what was verbally stated to you by the roofing sales rep. Never proceed without the verbal and written agreement matching up exactly!
How to Find the Best Roofer – When can the company start the roof?
Find out when the roofing company can start the job, and how long they feel it will take to complete.
Ask if there is anything you need to do on your end to get ready for the crew to install the roof. Such as, if you have a dog, if there is outside furniture that may need moving before the roof begins, etc.
(FYI) cut the grass right before the roof is scheduled to be torn off so it is easier for the roofers to find nails and small debris that may have fallen from the roof.
Remember, it is not a good idea to give the final payment for the roof until you have walked the job with your roofer, everything looks right to you, and the ground is cleaned up to your satisfaction.
If you are there when the roof is completed tell your roofer to double-check the driveway on the way out for any dropped nails. Your tires will thank you!
Will the roof be torn off down to the decking?
If you are replacing the entire roof make sure your roofer is tearing off everything down to the decking. This way the decking can be inspected and any wood that needs replacing can be at this time.
When installing a new roof it is imperative that the entire deck is structurally sound, so when installing the new roof material it can be fastened correctly.
How to Find the Best Roofer – What is the warranty on the material and labor?
Do not confuse these two. There is almost always a separate warranty for material and a separate warranty for labor. The manufacturer of the roofing material you choose to have installed will back the material warranty if it is installed correctly.
The better the material is, usually the better the warranty. This covers things like abnormal discoloration in the material, or if there is early deterioration in the roofing product.
If your new roof is leaking it is almost always an installation issue. This would fall under the labor warranty of the roofing company that installed your roof. Have the labor and material warranty in writing before you let any work begin, or before any deposit is given!
Are there any problem areas now that need special attention?
Sometimes when replacing a roof because certain areas are leaking or not shedding water correctly it is important to have that addressed. Talk with your roofer on what they plan to do about it. What is the plan of action when installing the new roof that is going to prevent this from happening again?
Have the remedy in writing and if it is included in the price you were given to install the roof. You do not want to install a new roof and have the same leaks or issues arise that led you to the decision to get a new roof in the first place! Of course that is why we are here letting you know how to find the best roofer.
Does the company you are considering have good references?
Anyone can tell you that they are the company that you want to install your roof. But, are they really the best roofing company for you. If you are in need of a roof repair or a new roof replacement, get solid references from the company you choose.
Do your research, ask if they put roofs on anywhere near or in your neighborhood, and what the addresses are. A good and reputable roofing company will not hesitate to give you references of past happy clients. And happy clients will not hesitate to give a roofing company that did great work a good referral.
My name is Charles Goss and hopefully, this will help you make a more informed decision the next time you are looking for a good roofer. Certainly you can take a look at us on Twitter, Yelp, and Facebook. Your Local Roofing Company at (772) 400-1074 is a Port St. Lucie roofing company that services both commercial and residential clients.
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