A roof is your first line of defense against rain, wind, and other weather elements. Missing shingles, cracked tiles, or water damage are clear signs your roof needs repair or replacement. However, hiring a roof contractor can be challenging.
Here are five things you should consider when hiring a roofer to simplify the process and get quality services done:
1. Expertise with Different Roofing Materials
No two houses are alike, and so are their roofing needs. To assess the workmanship of a roofer, consider their expertise with different roofing options and materials. This includes:
- Metal roofing
- Wood shake roof
- Asphalt shingles roof
- Clay tile roof
- Flat roof
- Green roof
A roof specialist would use quality materials and advanced techniques to ensure proper installation. Moreover, they can give you tailored maintenance advice to extend the lifespan of your roof, protecting you and your loved ones.
2. Safety Protocols
When it comes to roof repair or replacement, safety is of utmost importance. Make sure your roofing contractor is taking the right safety measures to protect themselves and your property. Key safety precautions include:
- Wearing protective clothing, like long-sleeved shirts, thick pants, and closed-toe shoes
- A layer of waterproof clothing to handle extreme weather conditions
- Wearing goggles and earplugs
- Barricading the area before starting the work to prevent potential hazards like falling objects
Roofing contractors will also use ladders and harnesses to ensure safe access to and from the roof. Once the repair or installation is done, they will remove any debris or loose nails to prevent injuries.
3. Warranty
Most reputable roofing companies offer warranties to cover any defects in materials or workmanship. A material warranty, typically offered for 25 years, covers:
- Fault shingles
- Cracked tiles
- Faulty flashing
A workmanship warranty is offered for 2-10 years and can cover installation-related defects, such as:
- Water damage
- Leaks
- Improper installation
A roofing warranty offers long-term protection, taking care of unexpected and costly repairs. However, it is important to do research and ensure the roofers practice what they preach.
4. Credentials and Insurance
Make sure your roofing contractor has proper licensees to operate legally in your city or state. They might have certifications from local roofing associations or the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). The aim is to assess the craftsmanship and professionalism of a company.
Next, ensure the roofing contractor offers adequate insurance. It will cover both you and the worker in case of an accident. Roofing insurance would also cover any damage to your property that occurred during or after the repair or installation.
A competent roofer won’t have any problems showing you relevant certifications and insurance policies.
5. Customer Reviews
Lastly, assess the reputation of your chosen roofing contractor. Focus on the last 3-6 months of homeowners’ reviews to get an idea about the contractor’s work ethic and policies.
Most roofing companies post before and after pictures of their work, which can also give you some idea of their experience. Remember to consider the customer support of a roofing company as well. This will help you get answers in case of unexpected issues.
