Roofs are quite possibly the most important feature in any building. They shield the interior space from rain, sun, snow, ice, etc. They are also an important barrier that keeps pests out and helps maintain indoor insulation. Given the many benefits of a fully functional roof, you cannot afford to make a mistake with the material or contractor.
Fowler Exteriors notes that getting the roofing material and contractor right are key ingredients of an excellent roofing project. A bad roofing job, whether installation or repairs, will expose your property to weather elements and affect the roof’s durability. However, an excellent installation and repair service can protect you for as long as the roofing material remains capable.
Planning a new roofing project? Now is the time to look for the best roofing contractor for your repair needs. But how do you secure the services of the best men for the job? Follow the tips below.
Choosing A Roofing Specialist For Roof Repairs
There are many things to consider when planning a roof repair project. First, you must determine whether a roof repair is a right thing to do. Roof repairs are cheaper but may not be a perfect solution for extensively damaged roofs.
If you’re sure the damage is minimal and can be fixed with a repair service, hiring the right contractor is the next step. Below are important things to look out for in a roof repair contractor.
Licensed, Bonded, and Insured
Licensure means the roofing contractor has undergone the requisite training and has passed appropriate screenings. It also means they have the right to take on roofing jobs in the area. A licensed roofer inspires confidence that they’ve met the minimum standards for obtaining licensure.
Bonding is an important factor to consider as it tells you more about the business and its financial strength. A bonded roofer essentially promises you quality work or a money-back guarantee if something goes wrong with your roofing project.
Insurance also inspires confidence and reduces liability on you as a customer. Ensure that the roofer has the right insurance coverage for the services rendered and their workers. A workers’ compensation insurance caters to the roofers should an accident occur while working on your property.
Service And Product Warranties
As stated earlier, the quality of roofing material and installation service can determine your roofing quality. A roofer that offers a service warranty essentially guarantees that they have done a brilliant installation or repair job and they stand by the quality of service delivered. With this warranty, you can sleep better at night, knowing your roof is in the best possible shape it can be.
Product warranties, on the other hand, back the quality of the roofing material used for your project. This means that the roofing material is expected to last a specific number of years, as stated by the manufacturer.
Be sure to get everything in detailed writing from your roofer before hiring them for the job.
Compare And Check Rates
Roofers charge differently based on several factors, including experience and expertise. It is best to compare prices across many roofing contractors to be sure you aren’t overpaying for the quality service you deserve.
A good rule of thumb is to contact at least three excellent roofing contractors in your area for a quote or price estimate. You can then compare their prices or rates as well as the quality of service promised.
It is important to be wary of ridiculously low rates. Inexperienced contractors often lure their customers in with low rates, then deliver shoddy jobs and charge extra or hidden costs.
Ask For In-Home Pricing Estimates
Most roofers that are worth their salt prefer to meet with customers to assess the roofing problem and make recommendations. They also offer free in-home estimates to repair the problems identified during the inspection service.
You can take advantage of this offer, allowing the roofer to get a first-hand look at your roofing problem. In-home estimates are also more accurate than on-the-phone estimates, as you can expect the roofer to identify other problems you didn’t notice.
Calling on two to three roofers to perform a free in-home estimate is a great way to get an idea of the extent of your roofing problem and how much it may cost to fix it. You also get to meet with the possible roofers and decide which one you like the most for the job.
Following the tips above will help you weed out the unscrupulous cowboy roofers and give you a better chance of hiring the best hands for the job.
