Whether constructing a new home or undergoing roof renovation, a roofing contractor is crucial for your project. They’ll determine the project’s scope, recommend materials, and provide a timeline. The contractor will be your main point of contact throughout the work. In this piece, we look at the eight key questions to ask your roofing company and why they’re important.
Depending on where you live, weather plays a big role in how your home’s roof will perform. Things like wind, hail, and even rain, affect the longevity of a roof. Another factor is the proximity of tall trees which drop leaves and sometimes larger pieces onto a house’s roof. If you keep your roof in good condition then it will last longer between replacements.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the process and provide essential roofing questions to ask potential roofers.
8 Essential Questions for Your Roofing Contractor
Before hiring a roofing contractor, ask them these important questions:
1. What will be the total cost of my roof?
One of the first questions to ask is about the cost of your roof. Price points may vary among roofing contractors, so it’s crucial to find a suitable match for your budget.
The average cost of a traditional roof in Louisville, Kentucky is $4-$6 per square foot. So the size of your house is a big determinant of the overall cost as you might expect. Small homes can expect to pay $5,000 to $7,000. Medium-sized homes in the $10,000 to $14,000 range. Large homes can be $20,000 or even more. Your roofing contractor’s choice of materials will significantly influence the final cost of your new roof.
Online, you can find resources like Alexandria roof repair cost to learn about costs in different parts of the country. The majority of roofing companies provide free estimates on their websites, offering a clear view of your project’s total cost. Obtaining estimates from multiple companies enables you to compare and find the best value for your roofing project.
2. Do you have a license and insurance?
Here’s one of the most important questions to ask your roofing company, “Are you licensed and fully insured?” It is essential to find a roofing company that answers, “Yes” to both. These credentials demonstrate their qualification to work in your state. Ensure your roofing contractor can provide proof of meeting all relevant licensing requirements in your area.
Working with unlicensed small roofing companies can be a risky investment. Without proper training and licenses, many things can go wrong. Some crews may operate without insurance, posing significant dangers for both workers and clients. As roofing is a hazardous job, workers’ injuries can occur. If the company lacks insurance, you might be held accountable for damages.
3. How many years of experience does your company have?
Next, inquire about the roofing contractor’s years of experience in the field. Choosing an experienced roofing company reduces the likelihood of encountering issues during your project.
Most roofing companies typically provide details about their industry experience on their website, but you can also inquire during the consultation. Understanding their experience will help you determine if they have worked with specific roofing materials and possess up-to-date knowledge of best roofing practices.
Choosing experienced businesses ensures peace of mind, knowing the job is done right. Years of service build community trust and reflect high-quality work. Avoid the temptation to save a few dollars with inexperienced companies, as it may lead to costlier consequences in the long run.
4. Can you share testimonials with me?
Seeking references is a vital step in finding a dependable roofing contractor. These references offer insights into their previous work and allow you to connect with past clients to gauge their satisfaction with the company’s services.
The absence of references from a contractor might raise concerns. In case you’re uncomfortable requesting references directly, you can alternatively explore online reviews of roofing contractors to gain insights into their previous client’s experiences.
Roofing contractors may feature a section on their website displaying past projects. Browsing through this gallery enables you to gauge the quality of their work and determine if they align with your needs.
5. What is the expected timeline for the project?
Another one of the important questions to ask your roofing company is about the project timeline. When it comes to getting a new roof installed, time is a significant factor to consider. To ensure prompt completion, it’s essential to discuss the project timeline in detail with your roofing contractor, especially for entire roof replacements. You may also ask if replacing your roof in winter is a good idea.
While project delays and unforeseen circumstances can happen, having a rough timeline beforehand is beneficial. It sets realistic expectations and allows you to plan. Be prepared for noise and activity during the project, as crews work to respect your home. Knowing the timeline helps you and your family prepare accordingly.
6. Is a building permit required?
Certain roofing projects may necessitate permits, while others may not, contingent on their scale and potential disruptions.
Inquire with your roofing contractor about the requirement for a permit. The roofer’s response depends on local building codes. If a permit is needed, the roofer should obtain it before starting the work.
Attempting work without a permit may lead to fines from permit offices, even if the work follows building codes. Reliable roofers should have experience dealing with local permit offices and handle the process themselves, sparing you the responsibility.
7. Do you provide warranties?
Here is one of the most important questions to ask your roofing company. Make sure to ask about the warranties provided by your company. Typically, roofing supplies come with a manufacturer’s warranty, covering repairs or replacements for any material issues. But some companies want to go above and beyond so they offer even better warranties.
During a roof replacement or repair, multiple warranties come into play. Shingle manufacturers sometimes provide warranties on their products, while contractors may offer guarantees for a specific duration. Prioritize discussing and obtaining a written warranty to ensure you can utilize it in case of any issues or breakages.
8. How will you ensure the security of my home?
While your roofing project is underway, you can typically continue using your home as usual. To ensure a smooth experience and maintain your family’s safety, it’s helpful to understand the measures taken by potential contractors. You can also discuss specific rules or requests, like asking workers to remove their shoes inside your home, with your contractor during this time.
You’ll also want to understand how your contractor plans to safeguard your home during their work. Effective protection prevents accidents and potential damage. Be sure to ask about their strategies for protecting your driveway, gutters, and skylights if you have them.
Conclusion
Finding a reliable roofing contractor can often seem overwhelming, but it’s not. By learning these eight key questions to ask your roofing company, you are better prepared to find the best company possible.
It is worth noting that the questions discussed in this article are the most important ones but you may ask any additional queries that align with your specific project requirements. Take the time to address any other concerns or queries during the consultation process.
