Roof works are one of the biggest projects you have to perform on your home. Having that in mind, they are also among the most expensive and time-consuming. The last thing you want is to encounter some issues along the way. Usually, the trouble comes with the choice of a contractor.
Like any construction project, you need to hire a person who knows his job. If a roofer is knowledgeable enough, he can suggest the optimal materials, he can work within the design of your home, and finally, do everything on time.
Here are 7 tips that will help you chose the right guy for your next roof replacement or reroofing project.
- How long is the contractor in business?
Experience is very important for a roofing business. You can even argue that it’s more important for roofing projects than for some other professions. Because of that, you need to find a person who has been in the business for at least 5 years. Keep in mind when it comes to roofing, there are lots of scams. The roofer can easily close and open a business if too many things went wrong during previous projects. This is why you have very limited protection. Best way to make sure is to hire a roofing company that has been in the business for a while. Make sure to check the web and see when was the first time their name was mentioned. Alternatively, you can ask your friends and family for a recommendation.
- Make sure they have the necessary documentation
Licenses are extremely important for any construction work. Make sure that a person has all the required licenses to do a particular job and that he’s certified by the governing body. Additionally, big companies usually insure their workers. If roofers on site have proper insurance, this is another sign you can trust the company that sent them.
- Beware of outsourcing
Occasionally, big companies have too much work on their hands and are forced to outsource another roofing company to perform the task. This doesn’t happen that often but you should definitely pay attention to it. You can start by checking their outfits and vehicles; make sure they have a logo. On top of that, you can also ask workers on site whether or not they’re really part of the company. Outsourcing can cause lower-quality workers to do the project.
- Price is a relative thing
When choosing a roofer, keep in mind that the price is a relative thing. If one company is slightly more expensive than the other, that doesn’t mean they are better. However, if the discrepancy is really big, there is a higher chance that the more expensive company will do a better job. Nevertheless, take pricing with a grain of salt.
- What was the biggest project they’ve worked on?
Big roofing companies tend to get bigger projects. Whether we’re talking about public or private enterprises, they will have certain experience dealing with pressure and high expectations. Even if you don’t approve of their work, this experience will be more than beneficial for your home. At the same time, companies that do get such projects are usually held in high regard within the community which is the best recommendation they can get.
- Check their previous work
That being said, it is really easy to check roofing company’s previous work. Make sure to visit other projects where they were in charge. You can also talk with people who live in those homes. Getting a new roof is a big investment and it is much better to perform due diligence than to spend all that money for nothing.
- What if things go wrong?
There is a good reason why awesome products have long warranties: they simply don’t break down. Same goes with roofs. If a company is prepared to assist in case things go wrong, this is a good sign that they believe things will not go wrong. Even if they do, you will have a written obligation that they must help you in such a case.
With these tips, you can go and find your ideal roofing contractor.
Take your time, check the market and make the best decision possible!
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