If you need to replace or repair your roof, then you’ll need a reputable and reliable roofing contractor. You don’t want to hire a company that cuts corners and end up with an unsatisfactory roof.
So, in this article, we look at some of the top questions to ask when hiring a roofing contractor.
1. Will you provide me with a written estimate?
1. Will you provide me with a written estimate?
2. Which roofing materials will you use on my roof?
Some roofing materials are better, and longer-lasting, than others. When replacing your roof, it’s worth using high-quality materials to ensure it lasts and you won’t need to spend tons on maintenance or repairs over the years.
Make sure your roofing contractor works with trusted brands and suppliers to ensure you are getting the most out of your new roof.
3. Do you provide a warranty?
Make sure that you choose a roofing contractor that offers a warranty with workmanship coverage. This protects your investment should you find something wrong with your new roof.
4. Who is going to be doing the job?
Sometimes, the contractor you hire won’t be the one actually doing the work. They might have a team of people coming in to do the actual work.
So, before you go ahead and hire your roofing contractor, make sure you know who will be coming on to your property and who you can expect to be doing the work.
5. Ask to see a portfolio of work:
Just like with any other project you take on in your home, you’re allowed to ask to see a portfolio. After all, you’re about to take on a huge project, with a large budget, so you have to know if you can trust the people coming in to do the job.
6. How long will it take?
This is one of the most important questions you can ask. With home improvement projects, time is money. The longer a project goes on, the more it’s going to cost you. This is something you’d want to know upfront, so it’s good to ask this before taking on a roofing contractor.
7. What safety precautions do you have in place?
Safety is of utmost importance on any building site, including your home. Working on a roof can be dangerous work, especially if your home has multiple floors. The potential roofing contractor should explain what safety precautions they have in place to protect their workers.
They should also advise on the safety precautions they have in place for you and your family.
8. Will you check the ventilation?
Good ventilation is very important. Your roofing contractor should understand this and check your existing roof and attic to see if your ventilation system is working sufficiently.
9. Do you install synthetic underlayment and ice/water barriers?
Synthetic underlayment helps to protect your roof deck. It protects against leaks and mold to ensure the interior of your home is safe.
If you live in an area that experiences snowfall, you may want to ask your roofing contractor whether they can install water and ice barriers. These are placed between the shingles and the roof deck to help prevent ice dams and water from collecting there.
10. Ask whether they’re licensed.
Though most states require roofing contractors to be licensed, the codes and regulations are different depending on the state. So, be sure to ask your potential contractor whether they’re licensed in your state.
11. How will you remove refuse and rubble?
This may seem like a silly question to ask, but if you don’t you may be surprised to come home to a driveway strewn with old shingles.
Make sure you know what to expect when your roofing team is removing your old roof and what they do with the refuse. So, asking whether they will be bringing in a dumpster to store and remove refuse is a good way to manage your expectations.
Final Thoughts
There are plenty more questions one could ask when hiring a roofing contractor, but these are some of the most important ones that could make a big difference to your roofing project and your expectations.