From storm damage to leaks and aging roofing materials, if there’s a problem with your roof, it’s most likely urgent. Unfortunately, roof repair is often one of the most expensive projects a homeowner can undertake. Before diving into the project head and wallet first, it’s important to do some research and choose the right roofing company for the job.
Here are nine reasons why you should be meticulous in choosing the right contractor for your roofing Mississauga (or wherever you may be in the world) projects:
Not All Contractors Are The Same
Experts recommend finding at least three area contractors to choose from. This is because the services, qualifications, and experience that contractors offer can vary quite widely. Plus, letting the contractors know that you’re shopping around may prompt them to offer a better price to beat out other competitors.
The Cheapest Option Is Not Always The Best Option
It might be tempting to jump for savings with such a costly project in front of you. But, as with any home renovation project, the best price doesn’t always mean the best value. Cheaper contractors may skimp on materials or skip valuable parts of the repair process. Ask contractors about why their prices are higher or lower, and you may discover important details about what they bring (or don’t bring) to the table. You want to choose a contractor that will ensure the best quality roofing within your budget.
Different Areas Offer Different Challenges, And Different Materials Offer Different Benefits
Depending on where you live, your roofing will need to withstand different conditions. Areas prone to the storm will need a wind-resistant roofing option, like metal, whereas areas with high humidity are best served by terracotta or clay roof tiles. Some materials, such as slate tiles, can offer natural insulation in extreme heat or cold areas. Others, such as metal or wood, maybe costly but will offer greater longevity—half a century or more, if well maintained!
Choosing the right material will also impact your budget and the overall aesthetic appeal of your house. You’ll want to work closely with your contractor to get a good deal on the material that will best fit your house’s style and roofing needs.
Roofing Is A Dangerous Job
Regardless of how intrepid of a DIYer you are, roofing is a job best left to the experts. Roofing company employees are trained in the safety techniques required to work on ladders and at great heights and have the safety equipment to minimize accidents. Roof falls are often fatal, and staying on the ground will keep you safe, plus you’ll able to make proper decisions about the roofing process.
Likewise, even having trained professionals involved in potentially dangerous work on your property can be a huge liability. Ensure that your contractor has insurance that protects you from being liable in the event of an accident.
A Good Contractor Should Have Expert Knowledge
The right company for your roofing needs should be able to answer any of the questions you have about the roofing process. They should also have expert connections that allow them to source top-quality roofing materials at a good price.
Not All Areas Have The Same Insurance Requirements
Most states require contractors to be licensed to perform roofing work, but unlicensed contractors may attempt to secure this type of job as well. Check that your roofing company has insured all of the employees or subcontractors that will be working on your roof. Also, request to see a copy of their insurance certificate and license; you can confirm this license’s validity online. You’ll also want to check that the roofing company is licensed to operate in your area. Local contractors will also be more familiar with local codes and regulations. If you need a licensed and fully-insured roofing contractor, make sure to call Roof Top Services.
Experience Speaks For Itself
Generally, for contractors, years of experience are a good sign that they’re capable of handling your roofing needs. An experienced roofer will be able to assess damage better, warn you of potential issues, and complete the job the right way without the need for any follow-up repairs. While experienced contractors may charge more than inexperienced options, increased quality and confidence is definitely worth the markup. As an added plus, it might be a good idea to look for an independent guarantee that will keep you covered if your contractor goes out of business.
Not All Contractors Can Handle The Job
Ensure that the contractor you choose is well-qualified and licensed to perform roofing work. After major weather events, such as storms, underqualified contractors may try to snatch up roofing repairs to make some money. But, given the complexity of roofing work, you’d want to work with a specialized roofing company that has a proven track record for this kind of work.
Warranties Are Key
While it’s important to consider the roofing repair process’s costs, perhaps, the most important consideration is what will happen after the company finishes their work. A reliable contractor will provide a warranty for their work as insurance will not cover any damage incurred due to shoddy workmanship. Contractor shortcuts or errors can show up months or years after the work is finished, so you’ll need to ensure the company you choose will be able to cover for that and spare you the potential cost.
Tips When Choosing A Roofing Company
Here are some important things to keep in mind when searching for a roofing contractor:
A Good Contractor Will Not Pressure You
Before you sign an agreement with a contractor, they should completely assess the damage to your roof and give you a reasonable estimate of what the project will cost. Do not let a contractor pressure you into signing a contract before the costs are calculated so that you know what to expect.
Referrals Can Go A Long Way
Don’t know where to find a reputable contractor for your roofing needs? Ask around! If any of your friends or family have had roofing work done in the past, they may be able to recommend a company that they were satisfied with. If no one you know has had roofing work done recently, make sure to check the customer reviews of the contractors you’re looking at. These should give you a better idea of what to expect when working with them and help you choose the best contractor for the job.
According to organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), it can also help prioritize roofing companies that have high scores. A reliable third-party review is always a good sign in terms of quality.
It’s Important To Be Involved And Informed
Once the roofing work begins, coordinate with your roofing company to stay up-to-date on the process. It’s important for insurance purposes to keep track of how many workers will be on your roof each day and what they’ll be doing. Understanding the roofing process will help you keep tabs on what the workers are doing. The contractor you choose should have your best interests in mind, but being uninformed about the process could encourage less scrupulous contractors to cut corners.
Your Deductible Keeps You Safe
Make sure that your contractor reflects your insurance deductible when giving a quote. Paying the insurance deductible is your responsibility as a homeowner, so any contractor that says you won’t need to pay it is potentially committing insurance fraud. A trustworthy contractor will inform you of the deductible cost without using it to inflate the cost of the roofing project. Similarly, make sure to negotiate your insurance claim yourself. In most states, it’s illegal to have a contractor act on your behalf for insurance negotiations.
Keep All Agreements In Writing
Unless you’re having a small job done, you’ll want to have all agreements to appear in writing. Avoid paying upfront, but be aware that estimates may change when the contractor gets to the substructure of your roof. Having a paper trail can help in terms of insurance claims and avert issues in the future.
Bottom Line
Any roofing work is of dire importance to your safety and security at home, especially if you live in an area that’s prone to adverse weather conditions. This, plus the work’s complexity, explains the high price tag that comes with it. The roofing company you choose will be your partner throughout the process, and you want to make sure that you’ll end up with a partner you can trust and rely on.
Choosing a contractor with ample experience and all the necessary licenses, as well as one who keeps your best interests at heart, will help you feel confident that your roof is being repaired in the best way possible. You’ll also gain peace of mind, knowing that the contractor is following the regulations set out by insurance companies, ultimately saving you the hassle and cost down the road. Just a bit of meticulousness when choosing a roofing contractor will ensure that you’re able to pick the absolute best company for the job.
