Finding a Roofer
Step 1: Finding a Roofer
Any Home Improvement is a complex combination of elements, the success of which depends on the quality of materials, installation and over-all construction. There are many ways to start your search for the contractor who meets your individual needs.
- Referrals are obviously the best source for names of credible companies. Ask friends and family members who they have used in the past.
- The Better Business Bureau & National Roofing Contractor’s Association.
- As well as local suppliers of building products.
Step 2: Choosing a Roofer
If you feel confident that the contractor is truly interested in your project, ask for the company's vital statistics-specific business information which will help you make your final decision.
- Business Name and Address: A good, professional contractor will provide the telephone number. These are essential when checking on the company's previous business dealings.
- Bank Financial Stability & Character Letter: This signed document from the bank will show you the financial stability and the bank's judgment of character of the company you are considering. Insist on seeing this letter so that you know that you are dealing with a company that is stable and financially sound.
- Experience: The training and experience of a contractor, as well as the age of his or her company, will help you determine their ability to successfully complete your project.
- Licensing: Some states require special licensing for contractors. Ask for business license numbers and information on the company which bonds the contractor. Then check with local authorities to see that the company compiles with regulations.
- Insurance Coverage: A contractor should carry worker's compensation and general liability insurance. Request the name and address of the insurance carrier, along with a copy of the company's insurance certificate. Beware of low bids which are a result of incomplete insurance coverage and workman's compensation.
- Professional References: Your contractor's past can help determine your future. Ask for a list of completed projects including the names and telephone numbers of previous clients.
- Company Philosophy: Discuss application techniques and workmanship guarantees.
- Warranty: Does the contractor stand behind his work?
- Factory certified: Is the roofing company qualified by the manufacturer? Sometimes a contractor will try to use his certification for his entire staff. Make sure every individual member is certified. Think about it.... the person who really needs the certification is the person doing the job, not necessarily the owner of the company. Ask to see your crew chief's certified installer's cards.
Step 3: Choosing a Roofing Material
- Utilizing the Roofing Contractor's Product Knowledge
Your contractor should have up-to-date knowledge on quality products for your project. He or she is the best source of information, but you should play an active role in the product selection process. Ask questions about different materials such as brand names, life span, thickness, design, available colors and warranties. Selecting the best products is as important to your job as selecting the right contractor.
Step 4: The Roofing Contract
Get it in writing. Beware of verbal promises. When a contract is presented, it should spell out the proposed work and prices. Read the contract carefully. Misunderstandings are the most common cause of contract disputes. Pay special attention to be certain the following points are covered in the contract.
- Building Permits: What's necessary? Consider local ordinances, costs, posting requirements.
- Products Materials: What will be used, brands, colors, etc.
- Project Inspections: number of inspections, completion timetable
- Site Procedures: work hours, clean-up procedures on the around your home, safety precautions, etc.
- Warranties: Including both workmanship and product.
- Terms: Detailed as method of payment to include a lien waiver upon final payment. There are only two reasons why you should pay cash up front. Reputable roofing contractors will not need cash up front for 99% of all jobs they do. The only circumstances that would make it necessary are if you special order non-returnable roofing materials, or insurance does not cover your repairs and you have questionable credit. Be careful of contractors who ask for money up front, especially if your roof is standard wood, composition, or tile shingles. This is the number one area of fraud among contractors.
- Liens: You should be aware that under the laws of most states, a contractor who does work on your home, or a supplier of materials for such work, has a right to place a lien on your property. Make sure all essential elements of your agreement are written down and understood by both parties.
- Ventilation: The roofing company you choose should discuss ventilation in your home. Ventilation is the key to having the Ultimate Roofing System. You can install the shingles correctly, but if the home is not properly ventilated, the life expectancy of your roof is drastically reduced and the shingle manufacturer warranty could be void due to the improper ventilation.
- Who do you contact for customer service after the sale: The roofing company you choose should be able to answer this question easily and you should ALWAYS make sure to get your warranty in writing at the completion of the project.
Step 5: Letting the Roofer Work
- Let the Roofing Contractor Do His/Her Work: Sit Back and Relax
A little well-planned research up front will undoubtedly save you a lot of time and trouble later on. Once you feel confident that you have the best contractor, the best products, the best value simply relax and let your contractor do his job. Do, however monitor the progress of your project to be certain your contractor lives up to his superior reputation.