How to Choose a Professional Roofing Contractor?

Fixing your roof can be a difficult, tedious, and downright dangerous job. Before you watch a few YouTube videos, buy the material, and set to work, think through the disadvantages of redoing the shingles on your own roof. In some cases, turning this into your own project may have more benefits than hiring a professional, but this could have negative consequences for most.

Before setting out, at least price out a roofing contractor to see if it is really worth it. You may find by the time you buy the materials and put an extensive amount of time into it. It just isn’t worth it to do yourself.

Depending on what field you are specialized in, you might have absolutely no knowledge of how roofing works and the best techniques. Most roofing professionals spend hours upon hours working with other contractors, perfecting the skill before setting out in business on their own.

They are licensed and know exactly how much material will be needed for your home. Those setting out to do this project for their own home have a tendency to either grossly over or underestimate how much material will be needed.

Every day brings an unfortunate number of falling accidents, many resulting in extreme injury or even death. Do all you can to avoid these situations and be safe. When you are learning a new skill, most of your attention is dedicated to completing the task, not your surroundings.

In some cases, this is just fine, but this is downright dangerous when it comes to fixing the roof. If you do choose to take on this task, be sure you have somebody there working beside you to ensure you are safe throughout the entire process.

Not only do professionals have the knowledge to get the job done right, but they also have the tools needed for whatever challenges your roof may possess. Their equipment allows them to do all the repairs and remain safe as well.

Even though roofing has been around for years, the technology and techniques have continued to change. Let somebody who has been through all the twists and turns of the industry finish the task. Looking for roof repairs? Look no further! Top Glaze has you covered.

10 Steps to Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor

You wouldn’t be satisfied with a roofer who cuts corners on the job, so why cut corners when looking for a roofing contractor? Paying attention to the details of a roofing company’s certifications, reputation, and operation method could save you thousands of dollars and provide peace of mind the next time you need a new roof or any repairs. Here are ten questions to ask when choosing your next roofing contractor.

Is the company properly licensed for the job?

A legitimate roofing contractor will have an occupational license for the city or county in which they do business and be licensed. Proper licensure and good standing with FDBPR indicates an acceptable, consistent level of quality on the job.

Does the company carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance?

Very few businesses are not required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, which covers medical expenses and lost wages of workers injured on the job. Suppose a roofing company does not carry this type of coverage. In that case, they may be in violation of the law and make you, the homeowner, financially liable for any injuries that occur on your property. Avoid legal fees and weeks of needless hassle by hiring a properly insured contractor.

Are there more than three testimonials or references that you can check?

With the significant investment of time and money that roof installation and repair requires, make sure that you put your trust where it is due. Look online for reviews posted by customers. If you have friends or neighbours that recommend a certain roofing company, ask hard questions about employee behaviour and punctuality, whether workers show up for the job consistently or disappear for long periods of time, the quality of the job done and the condition in which the crew left the job site upon completion.

Do their employees wear uniforms?

On its face, this may seem like a silly question. However, home invasions are becoming more commonplace and knowing that the stranger who arrives at your house will be uniformed and easily identifiable provides peace of mind for you as a homeowner.

Does the company have a physical location?

Many self-proclaimed roofers work out of a truck, with no office or central location, making it rather easy for them to disappear. If you experienced any trouble during a job, there would be no office to call or place to go in order to find them.

Does the company offer a guarantee, and are they likely to still be in business when the guarantee expires?

When working with any legitimate roofing contractor, you should receive a lifetime warranty on workmanship and a manufacturer’s warranty on the roofing product. The 25- or 50-year manufacturer’s warranty you receive will only cover manufacturing defects, and the roof must be installed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. If your roofer cuts corners, your warranty becomes void.

When being offered a 20-year warranty by a relatively young company, consider that most new businesses fail within the first ten years. When possible, it’s best to hire a seasoned, time-tested company to do the job.

Does the company undergo regular safety training?

The roofing business comes with unique risks. Before you hire a roofing company, make sure that they hold regular training meetings with all their employees, so your risk of liability is significantly reduced. We have a wide range of Melbourne roof replacement services at Top Glaze.

At what point during the process is the company requesting payment?

If a roofing contractor or handyman is requesting a large sum of money upfront, even if they claim it is necessary for materials or labour, this is a red flag. An established business will be able to carry the cost of materials until the work is completed or, for larger projects, until the material is delivered to your property. For larger jobs, expect to create a draw schedule, in which you pay a portion of the total cost when specific milestones are reached.

Will the company be doing all of the work or subcontracting the workout?

If the company you hire cannot provide all of the staff needed to complete the job, make sure you find out who will be on your property and working on your home. It is essential that you obtain all of the previously mentioned insurance information from each subcontractor that is used. Also, make sure that subcontractors are being paid. If subcontractors are not paid by the company you’ve hired, you may be liable, and the subcontractors may be able to place a mechanic’s lien on your property. However, you can avoid the headache entirely by working with a reputable company that can fully staff the project.

Does the company offer a written proposal, including the cost of the work?

Unfortunately, there are many unscrupulous roofers out there who give reasonable quotes at first, then proceed to increase the price once the work has begun and your home is exposed to the elements by a partially completed roof, leaving you no choice but to pay the new price in order to have the job finished properly.

When trust counts, make sure you’re counting on the right people. Only work with a company that holds its technicians to a high standard of quality and safety that will prevent voided warranties, unforeseen expenses, injuries and legal skirmishes.

Questions to Ask a Roofer Before Signing the Dotted Line

Finding a reputable company to do business with is a challenge. But, there are many ways to determine if a company is trustworthy and reliable.

Since roof replacements are one of the most expensive homeowner expenses, it’s important to conduct thorough research. Part of this research involves asking the roofing company direct questions. Another aspect of finding a reputable roofing company is knowing the signs of what makes a roofing company legitimate and trustworthy.

As homeowners or business owners, we always want to make sure we get the best service possible. To get those results from a roofing company, we need to learn as much as we can about them before signing the dotted line. Explore the following questions to ask a roofing company before signing the dotted line.

What Type of Warranties Do You Offer?

A new roof is a large investment. You want your investment to be backed by at least one warranty. Warranties can cover the cost of quality, the materials, or both.

Determine which warranties the contractor offers and if there is a manufacturer warranty for the roofing materials. Ask how long these warranties last. For new shingles, you should expect to have a manufacturer’s warranty that lasts for at least 25 years.

How Long Have You Been in Business?

Businesses that don’t provide high-quality service tend to not stay in business for long. Businesses that are able to survive for many years, however, prove that they have a track record of satisfied customers. Ask the company how long they’ve been in business to determine which category they may fit into.

What Materials are Best for my Home or Business?

Different climates call for different roofing materials. A roofing contractor should know exactly what materials are best for the area you live in and which last the longest. They should also be able to give you a side-by-side comparison of different materials to determine which is the best investment for you and your budget.

How Long Will the Project Take?

Roofing projects need to be completed in a timely manner. If they aren’t, then certain roofing materials could be damaged in the process. Depending on the size of the roof, the install should take anywhere from 1 to 3 days or more for larger buildings.

Will I be Updated throughout the Project?

Receiving updates during the process can help you to feel more involved with the project.

Feeling involved in the roofing project means that the roofing company sees your business as a valuable partnership. Even though a roofing project is short-term, knowing the stages of the roofing install is important for effective communication.

How Long Should My New Roof Last?

New roofs can last anywhere from 25-50 years, depending on the roofing material. The roofing contractor you choose should be able to give you a guarantee that your roof will last for a minimum of 25 years. Asking this question lets you know how accountable the roofing company is willing to be.

Is Your Company Licensed, Bonded, and Insured Properly?

This is the most important question you need to ask a roofing company. The roofing contractor needs to be licensed, and their business needs to be bonded and properly insured. At a minimum, the company needs to have worker’s compensation and general liability.

Are You Able to Remove My Old Roof?

Some companies may offer to add on a second layer of shingles instead of a complete replacement. Even though this is legal in most states, not removing the roofing material could spell trouble down the line. It could void certain warranties, and it could add too much weight to the building.

Do You Provide Written Estimates?

A written estimate is an essential document to have before committing to a roofing company. A written estimate will detail all the fees and costs involved in the project. This will safeguard you from any unexpected surprises later on that don’t result from necessary repairs and materials. Top Glaze has a wide range of Melbourne roof restoration services. 

Who Can I Contact When I Have a Question?

The roofing company should have a physical address and a phone number. They should have people stationed in their office who can answer calls and direct them to the proper staff member. If they don’t have a physical location and phone number, then this is a cause for concern.