The Key Questions you should be asking your roofer
To find a trustworthy roofing contractor, it’s important to be patient and conduct thorough research. In Bellefonte, State College, Howard, Williamsport and across Central Pennsylvania, there are plenty of roofing contractors to choose from. By asking key questions, you can quickly narrow down your options and find a contractor that offers all the services you need. Here are some questions to ask when considering a roofing contractor before hiring them.
When searching for a roofing contractor, it is advantageous to choose a local one. A roofing contractor who is located within a 45-minute drive is key. Out-of-area contractors may charge extra to cover transportation costs. In contrast, local roofing contractors are familiar with the building codes and regulations in the area and, therefore, can ensure that their work is up to code. Hiring a local roofer will also reduce the chance of needing to pay extra to cover the cost of transportation. Local roofers will ensure a more affordable roofing project for your home.
It’s essential to verify a contractor’s license before requesting a roof replacement estimate. Licensed roofing contractors have completed the necessary training to ensure that their work is up to code and safe. They will gladly provide their license information upon request. On the other hand, an unlicensed contractor only prioritizes making a profit and may leave you in a dangerous situation, as well as possibly not completing the job. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, as they may be a scam.
When choosing a roofing contractor, it’s important to consider their level of experience. This doesn’t necessarily mean that the business itself has been around for a decade, but it means ensuring that the roofing business has a reputation in the area, that their team is made up of experienced roofers and that they have established a strong, loyal following.
New roofing companies pop up regularly, some only last a year before their horrible reputations shut them down. Assessing if the business is being run by qualified roofers who offer professional roofing services and prioritize customer service has to do with a combination of their experience, reputation and, sometimes, how long they’ve been in business.
When interviewing a roofing contractor, it’s crucial to verify if they have both general liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance. If the roofing contractor does not have these forms of coverage, any accidents that occur on the job may become your responsibility.
Roofing work can be dangerous, and having proper insurance coverage in place will protect you from any damage to your property or injuries to the workers during the project. You should not consider hiring a roofer that does not carry proper insurance coverage.
It’s important to ask for a portfolio of a contractor’s past work when seeking a roof replacement estimate. A roofing contractor who is proud of their work will have no issues in providing a portfolio for you to review, it can give you an idea of the quality of their work and the types of projects they have completed and help you to determine if they have the experience you are looking for. On the other hand, a roofing contractor who is hesitant to show their roofing portfolio may be hiding something, and it’s best to avoid working with them.
Starway Roof Systems, for example, has an ample portfolio of completed projects. Our project gallery, offers our clients insight into the quality of the work that we do and how satisfied our customers are with every roof that we install.
When obtaining an estimate for a roof replacement or repair, it is important to consider the longevity of the work and inquire about the roof warranty. Inquire about both the product warranty, which covers any damages or leaks, as well as the workmanship warranty. Typically, a standard workmanship warranty is 10 years. It is important to ensure that the work being done is not a temporary fix but a long-term solution.
When obtaining an estimate for a roof replacement or repair, it is essential to request a written estimate. Verbal agreements may lead to confusion and misunderstandings about the price agreed upon. A written roofing estimate, preferably one that is itemized, will clearly outline the scope of work and cost for each aspect of the project. This will help you understand the charges and avoid any surprise costs. Requesting a written roof estimate and asking for an itemization of the costs is an important step in choosing a reputable roofing contractor. Furthermore, never rush the process of choosing a roofer. It is important to do proper research and comparison.
Asking a roofer if they will clean the site after they finish the project is important for a few reasons. First, it ensures that the area around your home or building is left in a clean and orderly condition. Debris from the roofing work can be hazardous and can lead to injuries if left lying around. A professional contractor should be willing and able to clean up the work site.
Additionally, a clean site is an indicator of a professional and diligent roofing contractor. A roofer who takes the time to clean up after themselves is likely to take care and pay attention to detail in the actual roofing work as well. Finally, cleaning up debris is also important to prevent the clogging of drainage systems and to reduce the likelihood of fire hazards.
By inquiring about the roofer’s post-project cleaning, you can ensure that the work area is left safe and tidy, this will also give you peace of mind, and you will be satisfied with the overall work of the contractor.
It is important to determine if a permit is needed for any home improvement projects. Your roofing contractor should be able to advise you on this, as they are familiar with the laws and regulations in your area. Failing to obtain a permit can result in problems with local authorities and may lead to the cancellation of your roofing project.
At Starway, we value the safety of everyone in our communities. Whether or not you choose to hire us as your trusted roofing contractor, we hope that you take the time for due diligence, asking these important roofing questions to find the best possible contractor for you.
If you would like to learn more about our services and our commitment to quality roofing craftsmanship, customer service, long-lasting roofs and efficiency, please contact us.