Choosing the Right Roof Contractor

The biggest decision you’ll make while re-roofing your home is choosing a roofing contractor. This person will help you choose the right materials, assess the current state of your home and ensure your family is protected from rain, snow, hail, and leaks that bring rot and mold.

So, how do you choose a roofing contractor that you can trust? Online searches and Yellow Pages references will produce dozens of companies in your area. Not to mention the national companies and “storm chasers” that roll into town after a big hail storm or wind event. We work with some of the best metal roof installers and we’ve compiled this list to help you find the right fit for your project.

Choosing a roofing contractor is the most important part of re-roofing your home. Pictured: Shaun Marshall-Pryde of Darkhorse Contracting.

Choosing a Contractor:

1) Research Regional Roofing Contractors

• Ask friends and neighbors who have recently replaced roofs for recommendations.
• Call your local roofing material suppliers for recommendations.
• Search the internet and read reviews to find out which companies do a great job and which contractors draw complaints.
• Make sure the contractor you choose has a local address. You want to make sure they are around if you have any issues.

2) Narrow Your Options

• Make sure each contractor you consider has experience installing the roofing material you want. Metal panels, asphalt shingles, and cedar shakes require separate skills that not all contractors have.
• Ask for proof of insurance and licensing.
• Ask for references from past clients.

3) Get a Roofing Quote

• Make sure you get at least three different quotes.
• Compare those quotes to see what each contractor includes. One estimate may be higher because they include tearing off the old roof, disposing of old materials, and a stipend for replacing damaged or rotted plywood substrate.
• If your quote doesn’t cover these steps, you can ask the contractor for the additional cost to include them.
• Ask each contractor for estimated time lines of project completion.

4) Meet with Your Contractor to Discuss Details of Your Roof replacement

• Decide on a start date.
• Set a reasonable end date for the installation and clean up to be finished.
• Set a payment schedule. It’s a good rule of thumb to set the final payment when work is complete.
• Decide where materials should be dropped off and how much space the contractor and crew require to work.
• Discuss any warranties on product or workmanship.
• Include all of these decisions in your contract.

Make sure you meet with your roofing contractor to figure out final details and sign a contract. Pictured Shaun Marshall-Pryde of Dark Horse Contracting.

Choosing the right contractor can be the difference between a smooth installation and a leaking roof down the road. Make sure you do your research to get the most qualified professional for your roof.

Are you replacing your roof? Download the New Roof Checklist to make sure you have everything you need.

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