Are you noticing a leak in your roof every time it rains? Don’t rush to call the first roofing company you come across. In fact, there are over 160,600 roofing companies in the country.
Rushing to hire the first company you find could leave you with an inexperienced contractor. Instead, it’s important to find the best roofing company available. With these tips, you can find a company that provides the skills and knowledge you need.
Separate the second-rate companies from the best in town. Start your search with these 10 tips today!
1. Look for Experience
First, complete a search for “local roofing companies near me.” You can also talk to friends and family members. Do they have a roofing company they can recommend?
Once you have a shortlist of potential companies, take your research online. The best roofing company around will have years of hands-on experience they can rely on. Look for a company that has operated for years if not decades.
People learn by completing projects and gaining experience. A company that’s operated for years has gained a strong professional reputation. It’s likely they offer top-notch work to earn that reputation.
Long-running companies also survive years of competition. Chances are, they’re doing something right.
A brand new company is probably still developing their business plan. Some companies work from their mistakes over years of working on projects. These companies need time to make improvements to their business.
By choosing an experienced, long-running business, you won’t have to worry that they’ll make mistakes on your roof.
2. Ask for References
To find the best roofing company in the area, ask for references from each business.
Speaking with the company’s previous clients will help you learn more about each business. You can speak with homeowners just like you to learn from their experience with the roofers. Did they have any problems during the course of their project?
How were those problems resolved?
Take the time to ask any questions that are on your mind. Did the roofing company meet the homeowner’s expectations? Would they recommend you contact a different roofing company?
Talking to different homeowners will also help you develop realistic expectations about your project.
3. Read Online Reviews
About 95% of customers read online reviews. Another 95% of consumers check reviews before trusting a business. By reading reviews online, you can find a roofing company you can trust.
If the company can’t direct you to references, check online. You can find reviews for businesses on the Better Business Bureau website. You can also check the company’s Google My Business listing.
Reading multiple reviews will help you develop a better picture of each business. It can also help you narrow down your list of roofing companies in the area.
4. Ask About Their Insurance
One small mistake can produce dangerous, costly consequences. If you want to find the best roofing company for your needs, make sure to hire a company with insurance.
Do they cover their workers? Who is responsible if there’s an accident while the company is working on your roof? What if one of their employees is injured one the job?
Choosing a company with the proper insurance will ensure your best interests are protected. Otherwise, you might have to pay for a lot more than your roofing project.
5. See Proof of Their License
Before you hire a roofing company, ask to see proof of their license. A professional roofing company will need to have the proper permits and documents before they start working on your home. If they can’t produce proof of their licensing documents, continue your search.
6. Discuss Their Process
If you want to learn more about a roofing company, ask about their work process.
What safety equipment do they plan on using? Do they take precautions to minimize potential accidents?
Will the company have a work schedule they’ll follow?
How long will the entire project take? When will they arrive and leave your home each day?
Make sure the company plans on installing new shingles after tearing off your old roof. Otherwise, they’ll only apply new shingles over your old ones. This shortcut will only conceal damages.
It can also put unnecessary weight on your roof.
Learning about their process will give you peace of mind before they start working on your roof. Otherwise, you might come across surprises along the way.
7. Flip Through Photos
To confirm the roofing company will meet your expectations, ask if you can see photos of their previous projects. Many companies post photos on their websites that you can look through.
Do these previous projects meet your expectations regarding the company’s quality of work?
You can also find photos on the company’s Google My Business listing.
8. Determine Who Will Complete the Job
Who will visit your home to work on your roof? Are they certified and trained properly? Do they have the experience and expertise necessary to get the job done?
Make sure you ask before they start working on your roof.
9. Request an Estimate
You don’t have to choose the most expensive roofing company in the area. However, it is important to note that you will get what you pay for.
Getting estimates from companies in the area will help you gauge the average price. If one roofing company offers an extremely low price, consider it a red flag. Scratch them off your list.
Companies that offer very low prices either lack quality products or are desperate for customers. Instead, compare the estimates you gather.
Once you determine the local average, you can start choosing between the roofing companies on your list. You can also learn how to save money on roofing here.
10. Get Everything in Writing
Before choosing a roofing company, make sure to get the details of your agreement in writing. If there are any disputes about negotiations, you can always refer back to the contract. Make sure financing terms, their guarantee, and warranty are listed in the contract, too.
Find the Best Roofing Company Around: 10 Tips for an Effective Search
Want to find the best roofing company in the area? Make sure to use these 10 tips during your search. With these tips, you can find a qualified company capable of fixing your roof properly.
Looking for more cost-effective tips? Explore the Lifestyle section of the blog today!