Practical Tips on Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor

Do you need a roofing contractor but don’t know where to look? Hiring a roofer begins with soliciting suggestions from your neighbors or Homeowner Association (HOA). Examine the roofing contractor requirements and directories in your state, as well as search for and read reviews.

Then, schedule consultations with two or three roofers in the neighborhood. Before comparing bids and negotiating the final price, check references, ratings, and qualifications. In the sections below, you’ll learn the ins and outs of hiring the best roofing company for your project and budget.

Roofing Contractor Qualifications

Roofer licensure is a regulated process where the state ensures that the contractor is insured, bonded, trained, and experienced. Because of this, it’s important to make sure that your roofer is licensed. 

The minimum requirements to qualify for a roofing contractor license include:

• Offering an estimate or appraisal of the work to be done.
• Signing a contract stating the work will be done in a workmanlike manner.
• Filing a $10,000 bond with the respective state
• Having no outstanding judgments against the roofer.
• Completing at least four years of apprenticeship, or 2,000 hours of experience in roofing trades.

The United States Department of Labor has information on roofer licenses in each state.

What Services Do Most Roofing Contractors Provide?

Roofing services differ from one contractor to the next. Inquire about the services provided by the two or three roofers you’re interested in working with. Among the most popular roofing services are:

Roof inspections should look for:

• Leaks
• Damage
• Maintenance and repairs
• Replacement or installation
• Weatherproofing
• Insulating
• Ventilating
• Shoveling (removing snow and ice dams)
• Cleaning the roof (pressure washing away mildew, moss, and buildup)
• Painting, sealing, or treating (especially for wood or metal roofs)
• Debris removal

When you replace your roof, it’s a great time to evaluate your gutters. Roofers may also offer gutter, siding, and window installation. Inquire with local professionals to see if they can give any extra services. Because the contractor will already be on-site, handling roofing and gutters simultaneously may save you money in the long term.

What to Ask a Roofing Contractor

Picking a licensed roofer is the first step in the right direction. You’ll want to do more than simply state that you want the work done in a “workmanlike manner,” though. You’ll want to be able to report back to your homeowner association, HOA, realtor, or others that you’re following protocol.

In order to follow the guidelines, make sure to ask the following questions:

• How much do you charge for your services?
• What type of insurance does your company carry?
• How long have you been in business?
• How many projects have you completed?
• When and how do you bill or invoice? Do you accept credit cards? Do you offer financing?
• Do you use subcontractors? Will you provide proof of insurance for subcontractors?
• Are there any guarantees with the work or materials?

Conclusion

Roofing contractors are there for you when you need them. As a homeowner, you have the right to ask questions about insurance, guarantees, and qualifications. Be sure to research the contractor, ask questions and check references.

If you’re looking for providers of the best roofing services in Summit, look no further than 3B Construction & Roofing! Our experienced contractors will ensure that your home is maintained in peak condition, all for fair prices. Reach out today to learn more!