Finding the right roofing contractor is the first big step in getting your roof replacement done right. But let's be honest, the search can sometimes leave you with more questions than answers. How can you be sure they'll do a top-notch job? Can you really trust this company with your home sweet home?
In our three decades of roofing experience right here in Raleigh, we've heard these kinds of questions and worries from homeowners day in and day out. Your roof is a big investment, so naturally, you want to make sure you're making the smartest choice.
We totally get it, and that's why we've put together a handy checklist. It's got five key questions you should fire off before settling on your contractor. These questions will help you figure out if they're the perfect fit for your roof replacement. So, by the time you're done with this article, you'll have the inside scoop on what to ask to find a contractor who'll treat your home right.
Let's get started!
Licensed - Ensuring your contractor holds the necessary license from your state's board of licensing contractors is a fundamental step in your selection process. Nevertheless, it's worth noting that not all states mandate a license for roof replacements. Take, for instance, North Carolina, where roofing contractors only need to be licensed through the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors for projects exceeding $30,000.
Insured - It's a prudent practice to request proof of insurance from your chosen contractor before sealing the deal. By doing so, you shield yourself from potential liabilities such as medical expenses and lost wages in the unfortunate event of an on-site injury. A reputable roofer, armed with a proper license, will invariably carry comprehensive insurance coverage, providing you with peace of mind should any mishaps occur during the project.
Experienced - The value of experience cannot be overstated when embarking on your quest to find the ideal contractor for your roof replacement. While no project is entirely devoid of challenges, an experienced contractor can significantly ease the process. A prime example lies in the uncovering of hidden issues beneath the initial layer of roofing materials. With years of industry expertise, a seasoned contractor possesses the acumen to diagnose the root causes of problems and prescribe the most effective materials, techniques, and methodologies to rectify them.
When your contractor ticks the boxes of being licensed, insured, and experienced, you can confidently entrust your home to their care. An accomplished contractor not only meets these essential criteria but often goes the extra mile, further ensuring the successful execution of your roofing project.
A hallmark of professional roofers lies in their commitment to safeguarding your investment. This assurance comes in the form of warranties covering both labor and materials, serving as a protective shield that gives homeowners peace of mind, irrespective of any challenges that may arise during or after the replacement process.
Central to this warranty package is the safeguarding of your interests against any inadequacies in roof installation or other errors that may occur during the project. Virtually every roofing company extends some form of workmanship warranty, underscoring its significance as a standard offering.
Workmanship warranties typically span a duration of at least one year for repairs, though longer periods may also be available. However, it's crucial to recognize that the value of a warranty isn't solely determined by its length. What truly matters is the roofer's commitment and capacity to uphold it. A workmanship warranty is a testament to the contractor's pride in their craft, showcasing their dedication to delivering a superior outcome.
Should a roofer fail to provide a workmanship warranty, it's a clear signal to continue your search for the right contractor. This warranty serves as a litmus test of their dedication to quality and customer satisfaction, making it an indispensable factor in your decision-making process.
Before finalizing your decision on a contractor, it's essential to assess their approach to post-project cleanup. While each roofer may have their unique method, one thing remains certain: a top-tier roof replacement includes a comprehensive cleanup process. Should your chosen roofer not include cleanup as an integral part of their service, it's advisable to reconsider your selection.
During a roof replacement, shingles, nails, fragments of fascia, and underlayment may scatter around your property. Part and parcel of a contractor's responsibilities encompass the thorough removal of residual debris. A reputable roofer will take proactive measures, such as laying down protective tarps and ensuring the presence of an on-site dumpster, to facilitate swift and efficient debris removal.
The cleanup process doesn't commence after the replacement is finished; it's an integral aspect of the entire project. To gain insight into how your contractor manages cleanup throughout the process, consider delving into this article. It offers a comprehensive perspective on the meticulous cleanup procedures your contractor will adhere to before, during, and after your roof replacement, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.
Renowned shingle manufacturers such as GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning meticulously select only a handful of contractors within specific regions to undergo their rigorous certification process. The attainment of such certifications signifies that a roofer has undergone thorough vetting by the manufacturer and possesses the competence to install roofing systems in strict adherence to the company's established best practices.
To ascertain your potential contractor's certification status, you can explore their website for a comprehensive list of their certifications. Alternatively, a simple inquiry will suffice. If they hold manufacturer certifications, it signifies that the shingle manufacturer places trust in their capabilities, serving as a testament to their standing as a reputable roofing company.
It's important to note that the absence of certification doesn't inherently label a roofing contractor as subpar. Nonetheless, by proactively checking for these certifications, you gain insight into the preferences of top manufacturers and secure the advantage of accessing the most robust roofing material warranties, all while aligning with the experts and their trusted partners in the field.
The path to finding a reputable roofer begins with thorough research into reviews from previous customers. Online platforms such as HomeAdvisor, Angi, and Thumbtack serve as valuable resources for accessing authentic customer feedback. To ensure the relevance of your findings, focus on reviews from the past two to three months, granting you access to the company's most recent projects and a clear picture of their recent reputation, whether it's a tale of positive recommendations or cautionary notes.
If you're considering a local contractor, consider requesting a list of local references. This step enables you to directly verify the quality of their repairs and replacements within your community. Furthermore, reputable roofers may extend invitations for you to visit past homes they've worked on, affording you the opportunity to personally inspect their craftsmanship.
While there are indeed numerous competent roofers in the market, our recommendation consistently leans toward hiring locally. Local contractors, deeply rooted in your community, possess an intrinsic understanding of the specific roofing practices tailored to your area. Additionally, their proximity ensures accessibility during potential emergencies, underlining the convenience and peace of mind that comes with choosing a roofer who lives and works in your neighborhood.
Armed with these five critical questions, you should now possess the confidence and knowledge needed to select the optimal roofer for your upcoming replacement project. This assurance is your first step toward ensuring that your home receives a secure, top-notch roof.
If you're prepared to move forward and hire a contractor, the subsequent action is to commence the estimation process. Soliciting estimates will furnish you with crucial insights into the scope of work encompassed by your replacement and whether your chosen roofer aligns with your budgetary considerations. It's a pivotal stage in your journey towards securing a reliable, high-quality roof for your home.
On Tops Roofing is a licensed and insured roofing contractor that has been working in and around the Raleigh area for over 30 years! Whatever your roof requires, We’re on it!
Jeff Baxter, Sr: Dec 17, 2023
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