Experiencing roof issues and looking for a reputable and experienced local roofing company? You’re on the right track! Given the costs and importance of a quality roof, researching local businesses to ensure you find the right roofing contractor for your roofing project is critical.
In this post, we’ll outline 9 things you should always expect from a roofing company working on your roof.
Good communication
When making an investment in your home, you’re going to have questions throughout the process. Who answers those questions matters.
Make sure any roofing contractor you work with has someone available to answer any questions you have, when you have them. This person should not be a salesperson, but someone directly involved in the work being done on your roof.
If any contractor tells you that there will not be a consistent point of contact, be wary. This could mean that there is no one managing your project and holding the day-to-day workers accountable.
Proper diagnosis
Similarly, at the start of the project, make sure the contractor is able to diagnose the root issue and not just recommend a new roof. Without proper diagnosis, the same problem that caused the initial issue could cause you to have a damaged roof all over again.
Make sure the person selling you your roof is knowledgeable and empowers you to make a good decision.
Positive reviews
Homeowners who’ve had work done by a roofing contractor are in the best position to evaluate the work of a roofing contractor. Shouldn’t their opinion matter?
Anybody you work with should always have positive reviews online. This will give you some key insight on aspects of how the contractor operates. Take special note of comments regarding:
- Customer service
- Quality of workmanship
- Cleanliness
- Professionalism
- Overall experience
If you see multiple negative comments, ask for an explanation. If they don’t have a good answer, it’s probably a good idea to steer clear.
Local experience
Local businesses stay around for one reason above all else: consistent, quality service. Focusing your search on local businesses that have a track record of quality service in your area will lead to a better roof every time.
When a company has firm roots in your area, you know they won’t be going anywhere. This means you can rely on them being there for their warranty and standing behind their work.
Don’t be afraid to ask a contractor how long they’ve been in the community. If they’ve been in town for multiple decades, you’ll know you’ll be working with a contractor you can trust with your home.
Utilization of good roofing products
Roofs need to be made from quality products that last. Here in the Pacific Northwest this is particularly important — a mid-winter roof failure could mean damaged property or an even larger repair to restore your home. You should expect an explanation of the products being used on your home and why they work for your specific roofing project.
When a roofer gives you a quote, they’ll also include the type of roofing material they’re planning on using. Make sure the material they use actually matches up with the material on your estimate. If it turns out to be a different material, make sure you get what is rightfully yours.
Products and labor warranty
Good businesses stand behind their work. Roofing contractors should be no different.
When a roofing project is completed, there are generally two components to any roof warranty:
- Labor warranty: This is the warranty of the workmanship of the roof and covers a faulty job installing the roof. This is covered by the roofing contractor.
- Materials warranty: This warranty covers failure or manufacturers defects on the actual materials the roofs are made with. These are generally offered by the manufacturer and not the roofing contractor themselves.
The standard for roofing contractors is a 10-year warranty on labor. Reputable roofers are trained to install the roofing material in a way that does not void the material (a problem with some less-reputable roofers out there). They’ll also help you with any roofing material claims that need to be made.
They must be insured, licensed, and bonded
This could be the most important step to protect yourself against shoddy work. Working with a roofing contractor who is insured, licensed, and bonded will protect you before, during, and after the roofing project has been completed.
All three protect you in different ways:
- Insured roofers protect against worker or property damage during the project. The two types of insurance every roofing contractor need are workers compensation insurance and liability insurance. The former protects you from injured workers claims and the latter protects you from any damage done to your project during construction.
- Bonded roofers protect against a subpar job. Bonded roofers pay into a fund that is used if a contractor does not finish work or does a faulty job. This protects you in case the roofers just get up and leave, don’t honor a warranty, or are simply being unresponsive to obvious failures to live up to your contract
- Licensed roofers provide overarching protection to everything else. Roofers who are not licensed will certainly not be bonded or insured and will void a materials warranty on your roof. They also generally don’t do a very good job.
Free estimates
Make sure any roofer you work with provides a free estimate for your roofing project. While a roofing contractor’s time is valuable, they should be willing to earn your business. Reputable roofing contractors will be eager to come out to you and provide a simple quote for the cost of the project.
Good work
Above all else, you should expect good work from any roofing contractor you work with. While this may seem simple, not all roofers are created equal.
The best way to ensure you find a roofer who does good work? Don’t settle. If any roofer you research doesn’t satisfy all of the requirements listed above, move onto the next. Your home is likely your biggest investment, and your roof is the shield that will keep that investment valuable. Don’t let a subpar roofer come and complete bad work on your home.
Fivecoat Roofing can help you protect your home
Fivecoat Roofing has been helping Hillsboro property owners keep their home safe for years. We’re licensed, bonded, insured, and offer a best-in-Hillsboro warranty. Don’t believe us? Read our reviews and contact us with any questions. We are always here to help!
