Your roof plays a major role in ensuring your home is secure and protected from the environment. However, no matter how durable your roof may be, in time, it will need maintenance, repair, or perhaps even a replacement.
Regardless if it’s to install a new roof or perform maintenance, it’s best to leave this type of work to people who are knowledgeable and skilled at it. Deciding to leave the roofing job to the professionals is the first step in caring for your roof.
However, it can be daunting to choose the right roofing contractor. In this blog, you’ll learn more about the significance of hiring a contractor and how to find the best one. Let’s get started.
1. Research Local Roofing Contractors
Today, you don’t even have to leave your home to find contractors that offer roof repair services. You can look them up on the internet and to narrow down your options, look up local roofing contractors.
Distance won’t be a reason as to why local roof repair contractors won’t be able to service you. Local roofing repair companies are also already familiar with specific weather conditions and this is an important detail when it comes to roofing.
Because they are local, they can also be there for you in case of emergencies. It might also be easier to find local roofing contractors that are good with their work as the local community may already be familiar with them.
2. Ask for Recommendations and Read Reviews
Aside from the internet, you can also ask around to find trusted local roofing companies. People whom you may know may have hired local roofing contractors before, and you may be able to get good recommendations from them.
Personal recommendations are always good because it’s based on firsthand experience. This means that it’s highly likely that the recommendations help ensure you hire the right people for the job.
Aside from family and friends, your neighbors can also be a good source of information. Going back to the internet, to further narrow down your choices, search for ‘local roofing companies in my area’ and read their past client reviews.
This can help give you an idea of how they go about their work or if they are excellent at what they do. You can do this by going to sites like Google and Yelp. Look at the quality of their past work, what clients have been saying about them, and if the general response is positive. After reading reviews, you should have a good idea of who to hire and who not to hire.
3. Verify Licensing and Insurance
To avoid getting into that undesirable scenario, it’s important that you hire roofers who are licensed and insured. Having licensed roofers means that you are getting professionals who are skilled, knowledgeable, and experienced in what they do.
They have the proper tools and training to do the job efficiently and effectively. For you to verify if the contractors you hired are licensed, you can check with your local government’s licensing board. Another thing you want to make sure is that you hire contractors that are also insured.
By hiring insured contractors, you become protected if things go wrong, such as if accidents happen, as the purpose of insurance is to protect you from liabilities. By having licensed and insured roofing contractors, you can rest assured that the roof of your home is in good hands and that you are also protected should anything undesirable happen.
4. Check for Experience and Specialization
Roofing isn’t a one-size-fits-all job. Different materials and types of roofs require different skills and expertise. When hiring a contractor, look for someone with experience and specialization that matches your needs. For example, a contractor specializing in metal roofs may not be the best choice for a slate roof.
Ask how long the company has been in business and whether they have experience with your particular type of roof. The longer they’ve been around, the more likely they are to have a solid track record. Look for “good roofing companies” that are known for their quality and reliability.
Boelter is Better, for example, has been serving the community for 30+ years, providing specialized services for roofing, siding and windows.
5. Ask for Detailed Estimates
A detailed estimate is essential for avoiding misunderstandings and unexpected costs. Ask for a written estimate that breaks down all the expenses, including materials, labor, permits, and any additional costs. This should also specify the start and end dates for the project.
Don’t settle for a vague, verbal quote. A reliable local roofing contractor will be transparent about their pricing and willing to provide a comprehensive estimate. Get multiple estimates from different contractors to compare prices and understand what you’re getting for your money. Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best.
Look for a balance between cost and quality to “find a roofing contractor” who meets your expectations.
6. Look for Warranties and Guarantees
Roofing work is a significant investment, and you want to ensure it lasts. One way to safeguard this investment is by choosing a contractor who offers warranties and guarantees on their work. This demonstrates that the contractor is confident in their work and willing to stand by it.
Ask about the warranties available for both the materials and the workmanship. A good roofing contractor will offer warranties that cover both. If a contractor hesitates or provides vague answers about their warranty policies, consider it a red flag.
With Boelter is Better, you’ll find clear and robust warranties such as Limited Lifetime shingle warranty that provide peace of mind long after the job is complete.
7. Consider Communication and Professionalism
Clear communication is crucial when working with a roofing contractor. From the first contact, pay attention to how promptly they respond to your inquiries and how clearly they explain the process. Do they answer your questions thoroughly, or do they seem rushed? Professionalism in communication often reflects their work ethic and commitment to customer service.
Look for contractors who provide a project manager to keep you updated throughout the project. A local roofing contractor with excellent communication will ensure you’re never left wondering about the project’s status or next steps.
8. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
When hiring a roofing contractor, never hesitate to ask questions. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to make the right choice. Ask about their process and how they handle unforeseen issues.
A reputable contractor will welcome your questions and provide detailed answers, demonstrating their knowledge and confidence in their services. At Boelter is Better, we encourage our clients to ask as many questions as they need to feel comfortable and informed about their roofing project.
9. Explore Financing Options and Terms
Roofing projects can be a significant investment, and many homeowners are concerned about how to afford them. When hiring a roofing contractor, inquire about their financing options. A good roofing company should offer flexible payment plans that accommodate your budget and financial situation. Understanding these terms upfront can help you avoid any surprises down the line.
Ask about interest rates, payment schedules, and any potential fees associated with financing. A contractor with transparent and fair financing options demonstrates their commitment to making quality roofing accessible to all homeowners. At Boelter is Better, we provide a variety of financing options to suit your needs. You can check out our financing page to learn more and find a plan that works for you.
Ready to Protect Your Home? Choose the Right Roofing Contractor Today!
Hiring the right roofing contractor doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these nine tips, you can find a reliable and experienced roofing company that will deliver high-quality work at a fair price.
Remember to research local options, read reviews, verify credentials, and ask plenty of questions to ensure you’re making the best choice for the roof of your home.
If you’re looking for a reputable and trusted roofing company, Boelter is Better can be your partner in caring for your roof. Whether it’s roof installation or repair, we have the experts to ensure any roofing job you need is done excellently. Call us today to learn more!
