For an often forgotten home feature, roofs are quite important!
Roofs protect us from harsh snow, whipping wind, pouring rain, and falling debris. While it keeps us safe beneath, the roof is the first defender to all this exposure and can weather over time. In order for the people in the home to be safe and secure, the roof has to be too.
Depending on where you live, you will have different concerns about your roof. Whether you’re worried about ice dams or tornado damage, the questions to ask a roofing contractor remain the same.
You need a roofing contractor you can trust and feel comfortable asking questions and establishing expectations. A professional roofer should be transparent throughout the process.
Luckily, roof repair and replacement aren’t something the common person has to deal with too often. On the other hand, that makes it a bit difficult to know what to ask the contractor.
These five questions can help you get a feel for the contractor’s trustworthiness and capabilities.
1. How Long Will It Take?
One of the first things to ask a roofer is how long they estimate the project to take. An inspection should be performed to see the existing state of the roof, so the roofer has a better idea of a timeline.
For something as important and intrusive as roof repair or replacement, you obviously want the best work done in the shortest amount of time.
How long it takes can depend on the materials used, the other projects the roofing contractor has, and whatever obstacles come in the way. You can’t always predict things like the weather, but you should discuss with the roofer how they will approach these situations.
2. How Much Will It Cost?
You’ll want to get a quote from the roofing contractor before you agree to anything. They should have a general idea of what materials and labor cost and should be clear with you. If insurance is involved, who will talk to claims?
Of course, things do come up during construction. The company should communicate its needs clearly throughout the process.
3. What Projects Have You Done Before?
It’s a good idea to see what type of experience the roofing contractor has. How long have they been in the business?
It’s perfectly acceptable to ask for examples of previous work, especially for a roof replacement. The roof is a major part of providing an aesthetic for the home, depending on the material.
4. Are You Licensed and Insured?
Let’s be clear: you want someone who is fully licensed and insured. If anything were to go wrong, everyone wants to have that backup available.
If they hire subcontractors (ask about this too!) you should make sure the coverage is extended to them, as well.
5. Is There a Warranty?
Ask the contractor if there’s a warranty on the roof and if they’ll come back to fix any issues that persist after the repair or replacement.
Hiring a Roofing Contractor
Now that you know the right questions to ask your roofing contractor, you’re in a better place to find the perfect person for the job.
If you’re in need of a consultation for roof repair or roof replacement, Contact Detailed Roofing and Construction today to begin the process with a free 10-point roof inspection!