If you need roof repair, there are certain things to know. Here is a list of 7 things to consider when hiring professional roofers.
A roof can last anywhere between 20 to 50 years, depending on the material. Temperatures, hail, and storms can all shorten the lifespan of your roof. Installation can also affect the lifespan of your roof.
The end result? You might be looking at repairs or replacement sooner than you’d hoped.
If you’re in need of a repair or replacement, you might be thinking about how you can extend the lifespan of this roof. One of the best things you can do is hire professional roofers.
There are many roofing professionals out there, so it can be difficult to know if you’re truly hiring the best. Remember to consider these seven factors, and you’ll be well on your way to picking the right team.
1. Think Local for Roofing Needs
When you’re hiring a roofer, you’ll want to consider your local professionals first. There are a few good reasons for this.
First, you may be able to drive around the neighborhood and find examples of their work. You might even be able to talk to previous clients about the contractor’s work.
Next, you’ll also have a better chance of getting in touch if something happens to go wrong. As much as roofs are meant to last for decades, sometimes hail or other unpredictable events happen. You may need to follow up on the warranty.
Working with “storm-chasers” makes it difficult to follow up on poor work or warranties. If you need replacement or repairs, you may never find these roofers.
When you work with local roofers, you can rest easy knowing that you can pop in to see them at their office. They also have a reputation to maintain, so they’ll be much more inclined to keep customers satisfied.
2. Check out Client Reviews of Professional Roofers
Speaking of satisfied customers, don’t forget to check out the reviews for any professional roofer you’re considering.
You can find reviews in a few different places. Some roofers may have client testimonials on their website. Others will have reviews on Google My Business or other review sites.
You may also be able to talk to current and past clients, who will give the contractors an endorsement. You can even ask other homeowners, friends, and colleagues for recommendations. They’ll likely be able to “review” roofers they’ve worked with, citing both good and bad experiences.
You may also want to check in with the Better Business Bureau. Keep in mind that you should pay attention to both positive and negative reviews. The roofer’s response to negative reviews shows how they handle a disappointed customer.
3. Ask to See Samples
Most roofing contractors are proud to show off their finished work. Many have galleries on their websites, which you can easily access. Others will be more than happy to show you examples from their portfolios when they meet with you.
If a roofer can’t produce samples, you may want to ask why. If the recommendation comes through a friend or colleague, you may be able to get pictures from them as well. Many roofers will also have their clients “advertise” for them with the placement of lawn signs, so you can see examples in your area.
4. Check in on Insurance and Licenses
Another important factor to consider when hiring professional roofers is insurance and licenses. You may need to check in about the requirements in your area, but most roofers need to have a license.
Professional roofers work hard to keep their licensing up to date. If someone’s licensing has lapsed or they’re unlicensed, you don’t want to work with them.
Insurance is also important. If the roofer doesn’t have insurance, you may be liable if something happens on your property. If the roofer can’t provide proof of current insurance, you should look elsewhere.
5. Collect Several Quotes
When you need roof repair, it can be tempting to go with the first person you come across. After all, you want to fix that leak or patch that hole before it leads to bigger problems.
It’s a good idea to slow down a bit and collect many quotes from different contractors. This gives you a chance to compare the costs. It can also protect you from working with a less-than-professional contractor or paying too much for a simple patch job.
Keep in mind that price isn’t the be-all, end-all for roof repair or replacement. Some contractors charge very little, but they might not use quality materials or they may not have a license. Other contractors provide much more value.
The person charging the highest price isn’t always the right option either. They may be using the best materials or have the biggest crew, but they don’t always do the best job. Make sure you look for value more than anything else.
6. Consider Experience
You may want to consider someone’s years of experience as well. Someone starting out may offer to do the job for less, but they may not have the experience to do things “the right way.”
Someone with more experience is likely to provide efficient and effective service. They’ll also have more samples and client reviews to back up their claims.
Much like price, though, experience isn’t the be-all, end-all. You may want to consider someone who has less experience, especially if you know them and can speak to their work.
7. Get the Details in Writing
Before you move ahead with any roofing job, make sure you have the details in writing. That way, you can push back if the contractor starts to make changes on the job.
For example, before the project begins, you may agree on one material, but the contractor then uses another, subpar substitute. Without a written agreement, you might not be able to hold the contractor accountable if they suddenly switch materials.
Having a written copy of the details lets you hold the contractor to what you agreed on. Most professional roofers will let you know if changes need to be made for some reason. They should always be willing to negotiate.
Get the Help You Need
Hiring professional roofers doesn’t need to be difficult, and it can help you get the most out of a repaired or replaced roof. When a roof repair or installation is done the right way, your roof will last much longer. You’ll also know exactly who to call the next time something unexpected happens!
Looking for more practical advice on maintaining your home? Our library has plenty of tips and tricks to help you manage.