A roof installation is a serious work that impacts the form and function of your home. Roofs protect a home from the sun, weather, pollution, and intruders. While roofs are made to last, they are not invincible and could need replacing.
Hiring new roof installers takes the burden of a complex task and transfers it to the professionals. Professional intervention costs money, but you pay for quality work, peace of mind, and little to no liability.
This article contains a checklist of essential considerations that homeowners must account for when getting a new roof installed.
Professional Roofing Contractor Checklist
Do Your Research
A DIY roof installation can result in poor finishing that leads to leaks, shingle damage, and high energy costs. Professional roofing contractors come with years of experience and an understanding of roof installations.
They have encountered various roof installation situations, good and bad, each molding their experience to ensure they deliver high quality results. Before work begins, take the time to research the best roofing contractors in your area. Speak with them regarding the roofs condition and what to expect with a brand new installation.
Check License and Insurance
To ensure they’re qualified, confirm whether your preferred contractors have the right certifications, licenses, and insurance coverage. This ensures their paperwork is in order and they’re vetted by regulatory bodies.
Licensed contractors also need to have the right liability insurance and workers’ compensation paperwork in place. In case something goes wrong on the job, the customer is protected and the contractor is responsible.
Request and Compare Quotations
Have the contractors share a written, itemized quotation with you showing the material cost, labor, and estimated project timeline. Ensure every essential detail is clearly mentioned since a contract is legally binding and holds the contractor accountable.
It is worth noting that choosing a contractor solely based on a lower price might not be the best decision. Most contractors will charge higher money due to more experience and better results. They charge more because they offer better service compared to cheaper options. Compare the quotations and offerings to find the right proposition for your home.
Check for Professionalism and Communication
Homeowners need to look out for potential red flags such as high-pressure sale tactics and contactors being apprehensive about putting certain details in writing. No honest business owner does anything that could jeopardize their business or hurt their customer.
The contactors must also have clear communication to guarantee they are responsive and offer clarity. This gives the customer peace of mind and helps them remain informed on the project’s progress.
Evaluation Their Portfolio of Past Clients
The best way to gauge whether a certain contractor is qualified and worth the money is to review their past projects.
Request references from past clients and ask them if they can visit the sight to observe the finished product from afar. At the very least, there must be pictures or a written testimonial from the customers to back what the contractors have promised.
Final Thoughts
Roof replacements are complex and extensive home renovations that require professional intervention. Unlike more common DIY home projects, a roof installation is not something anyone can do.
Hiring a professional contractor for a new roof installation can be summarized in a simple checklist. Start by looking into the different roofing contractors in your area, vet their services, and check for all licenses and insurance. Have the contractors send you itemized quotations to compare before deciding on the best value-for-money.
Lastly, ensure they communicate clearly and fulfill their contractual obligations. Go over their portfolio to get an idea of their workmanship and how your roof will turn out.