Picking a roofing contractor is often a difficult task for consumers who may not be familiar with the roofing industry. Selecting a properly certified and high-quality roofing contractor should be the goal and unfortunately roofing in most regions of the country region is still an unregulated industry. That’s why it’s important to take your time to find and check out certified roofers who will honour their warranty and their workmanship in the future.
1. Find a credible roofer
There are some unscrupulous roofing contractors who are not certified may leave you with an unfinished or unsatisfactory roofing contract. This is particularly true after a storm or major wind event when you might have shingles blown off or other roof damage.
The Better Business Bureau suggests that you take you time after a storm and don’t let yourself be rushed into signing a contract with any particular company. Get business cards and ask for written estimates for the work. They also warn to be careful of any company that puts an emphasis on how the homeowner can get a new roof paid for by the insurance company.
Try talking to your insurance agent and ask for advice on how to proceed in getting repairs made and to keep your receipts for any temporary repairs. If you are unsure about any roofing company, they suggest that you call their office to check them out.
2. Questions to ask a prospective roofer
When interviewing a roofing contractor, you may want to ask the below questions:
- How long has the roofing company been in business and do they have a permanent business office address, phone, and email?
- Does the contractor use subcontractors and if they do, will they provide you with a list and contact information so that you can check them out too?
- Will the roofing contractor provide you with a written contract and estimate and ask them if you have to pay any money up front as a deposit?
- Does the roofing contractor offer a guarantee or warranty of their work and the products they use?
- Does the roofing contractor have liability insurance and are they registered with the local Workplace Safety and Insurance Board?
- Is the roofing contractor a member of the local and national industry and roofing associations?
- Will the roofing contractor provide you with references from former customers that you can call and talk to yourself?
3. Types of roofing
There are many different types of roofing materials as there are roofing contractors in the marketplace. The choice of roofing contractor is important but as in any home improvement or maintenance project there are other factors as well. They include a complex combination of elements, the success of which depends on the quality of materials, installation and over-all construction.
4. Roofing materials
Asphalt shingle roofing is perhaps the most popular roofing material and it can be available in a variety of thickness and membranes to suit any roofing style.
There are also metal roofs which are becoming more popular in some areas because of their distinct look and decorative style.
In addition, you can get some forms of plastic roofing as well as rubber roof shingles and slates. All of these latter options are cheaper than the first ones.
Finally, there is the ever-popular and very effective wood shake and shingle approach that many people still swear by. The choice of roofing materials is varied and always yours.
