Finding a Roofing Contractor
There are different ways to start searching for the roofer who meets your unique needs. Referrals are apparently the best source of names of well-reputed companies. Ask your friends and family members whom they have worked with in the past.
Call your local Chamber of Commerce about roofers who are trusted in your community. Local trade associations, state and local licensing authorities, the Better Business Bureau, and your phone book’s yellow pages are also good sources of information, not to mention local suppliers of construction products.
Here are things to consider before hiring a roofing contractor:
Job Quality
The best guarantee that your new roof will last long without leaks is to choose a quality shingle product, and to be sure that the shingles are properly installed – with good workmanship, a roof will shed water.
Shingle Quality
Don’t hesitate to purchase a quality shingle product from a top manufacturing company, regardless if it is more expensive, but don’t stop there. If installed the wrong way, not even the most superior quality shingle will not be right for you. The two key organizations that set asphalt roofing installation standards are the National Roofing Contractors Association and the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturer’s Association. Roofing products are also measured according to ASTM standards.
Roofer’s Reputation and Experience
Before hiring a roofing contractor, check with your local consumer business office and go through Internet reviews from local customers.
Shingle Installation Supervision
You must be sure that the people will really do as they are expected to, or are at least supervised everyday by a pro. Many roofers have salesmen or prime contractors who only sell the job but send unskilled workers to set up the roof with minimal or zero expert supervision.
Roof Maintenance
Before committing to a roofing contractor, make sure you discuss regular roof inspections, your under-roof’s condition or attic ventilation, any special problem spots that may be on your roof, and what must be done about them.
After compiling a list of potential contractors, spend time evaluating each one thoroughly. A reliable contractor will be enthusiastic about providing any information that you may need to make a decision, such as:
> business name and address
> experience
> licensing/bonding/insurance (ask for proof)
> professional and credit references
> warranty
At the end of the day, you want a roofer who knows good roofing practices and roof flashing details, how to take care of problem spots on building roofs, and alternative roof covering products, such as shingle types, colors, grades, flat roofing materials, etc.
A good roofer will give you with smart advice regarding products, explanation of procedures, and, most importantly, solid results. It’s hard to know the actual capabilities of a contractor, but with a little research, planning and lots of common sense, it does get easier.