Not sure who to contact if you need a roofer for your project? Asking your neighbors and Homeowner Associations (HOAs) for recommendations is the first step in hiring a roofer. Check the requirements for roofing contractors in your state and find reviews.
Call two or three local roofing contractors to set up consultations. Compare bids, review qualifications and references, and then negotiate a final price. Learn how to choose the right roofing service for your project.
What is the time frame when I will need a roofing contractor?
Roofs are an important part of your house and need to be addressed immediately if there are any issues such as cracks, leaks or a need for an upgrade. Roofing contractors can help you resolve these issues quickly to avoid further damage to your home. The best time to hire roofing contractors is before you have to replace your roof. It’s important to prepare for any damage to your roof.
Roof Contractor Qualifications
The criteria for a municipality’s Hobart roofing contractors must be met. Before hiring, check the roofer directories and qualifications in your state.
What is the time frame when I will need a roofing contractor?
Roofs are an important part of your house and need to be addressed immediately if there are any issues such as cracks, leaks or a need for an upgrade. Roofing contractors can help you resolve these issues quickly to avoid further damage to your home. The best time to hire roofing contractors is before you have to replace your roof. It’s important to prepare for any damage to your roof.
Types of Roofing Contractors
Not all roofers are created equal. Understanding the differences can help you better understand what to expect from these roofers when you get quotes and sign contracts.
Residential Roofing Contractors
Residential roofers are only employed by homeowners to install new roofs or repair existing roofs. Residential roofing is not as complicated or technically complex as commercial roofing, but you still need to choose a dependable and experienced contractor to make sure your roof will remain durable and waterproof for many years.
Roof Repair Contractors
Roof repair contractors ensure the safety of your roofing system and repair any damage that threatens its structural integrity. This includes broken shingles or holes. Hobart roof repairs contractors offer additional services such as repairing leaks and cleaning the gutters.
Roof Replacement Contractors
Roof replacement contractors are experts at replacing materials on your roof. They can assist you in choosing a tile or shingle style, and suggest roofing materials that match the ones you have already installed.
How to Hire a Roof Repair Contractor
There are two options to choose from when you are ready to hire a roofing contractor : independent contractors or roofing companies. Both have their pros and cons. Compare bids to find the lowest price. Check references, reviews and qualifications of roofers.
Independent roofing contractors are great for quick repairs. They may need more time to complete larger projects like replacing an old roof, because they work either independently or with subcontractors. They may be specialists in a certain style. It can be risky to hire an individual, but you will work and see the same person throughout the entire project.
Roofers are more likely than other contractors to finish large jobs faster, be covered by warranties from the manufacturer, provide discounts or consultations for free, and use more materials. You may not be able to work with the same person for every phase of your project.
What to ask a roofer
When choosing the right roofing contractor, it is important to interview contractors. Here are some questions to ask.
- What roofing types do you install
- Do you file homeowner’s claims with your insurance company?
- Are you licensed to perform this work in my region?
- What are your insurance policies and their coverage?
- Please provide me with two or three references that I can check.
- Offer a free inspection on site?
- Take photos of the completed project and the inspection?
- Can you provide me with a written estimate following the inspection?
- Do you repair roofs? What is the cost?
- Does your work fall under the manufacturer’s warranty?
- What are your methods for keeping projects on time? What is your policy for inclement weather?
- Do you remove old roofing materials or dispose of them? Do you charge for disposal? Do you recycle your old materials?
- How and when do you invoice or bill? Accept credit card? Do you provide financing?
How to Choose the Right Roof Contractor
Get bids from several roofing contractors before selecting the right one for you. Choose the middle-of the-road, reasonable bid or choose the contractor who has the best price and availability. If you have the budget to do so, you may choose the roofer who has the highest estimate but also 20 years’ experience in installing the type you want.
No matter what bid you choose, ensure that your roofer is qualified.
You may find that there are fewer roofing contractors in your area if you know the type of roof you want. Asphalt shingles are installed and repaired by most roofers, but few have experience with other materials such as cedar shakes, clay tiles or slate. Solar shingles and green roofs are unique styles that require specialists, who can be difficult to find in rural regions.
When a roofer comes to your door and offers you a bid, it can be predatory. Check their insurance, license and references before accepting a bid from a local roofer.
