How to Choose A Roof Contractor

Discuss local roofing contractors with your family and friends and ask them to share their experiences. Word of mouth is almost always the best reference when choosing someone to work on your home. Come up with a list of potential roofers and look into the background of each before making any calls. Unfortunately, scams are not unheard of, and it is essential to educate yourself to choose the best contractor for your needs. Start by going online. There are review sites designed specifically for this purpose. Seek information specific to roofing repair companies and read what others have to say about their experiences. Remember that most reputable companies will have websites that demonstrate they have a solid link to the community in which they live and work. Smaller companies using their own names often demonstrate pride in workmanship. They reply on repeat business and usually have a special interest in living up to their name.

Call your Better Business Bureau. Check with your State Board of Professional Licensing and the Chamber of Commerce. Roofing companies who have had complaints filed against them can be eliminated from your list. Also, ask about the type of permit that may be needed before the work can begin and who should obtain it.

Schedule an interview with each roofer. Compile a list of questions to ask beforehand. Include questions about the roofer's license, insurance coverage, years of experience in roofing, cost estimate, and length of time to complete the job. Find out if he is willing to put everything in writing. Ask specific questions: What type of shingles are best suited to the structure of your house and what options are there for different types of roofing? Should you switch to a metal roof rather than traditional asphalt? If so, what are the advantages and drawbacks of both types of roofing? What is the difference in price? Are there problem areas such as valleys that are difficult to repair, or places that are prone to ice dams? If so, how will he handle that? Has he had experience with the materials he is recommending? Are the materials guaranteed, and for how long? Will the roof be overlaid (roofing placed over the top of what is there), or will the old roofing be stripped off? Will he be responsible for disposing of all the debris while the job takes place? Will he repair any inadvertent damage during the course of the job at no extra cost? One good rule of thumb in choosing your roofer lies in your own knowledge of your house and its problem areas. Test the roofer's observational skills after he has inspected your roof. Did he notice, and bring to your attention, areas that you already recognize as potential concerns?

Compare your notes after completing your interviews. Did the roofer call back promptly and was he courteous? Did he show up on time for the appointment? Did he speak knowledgeably about roofing and about the materials he will use? Did he address all your questions? Did he discuss additional items such as flashing, vents, types of underlayment, fasteners or nails, etc? Was his attitude toward the job positive? Was he happy to provide you with references? Trust your instincts. Your first impression is the key to what future interactions will entail.

Contact the contractor's references and ask plenty of questions. Did the finished product meet that customer's expectations? Go see the work in person. There's nothing like seeing a completed job firsthand rather than only hearing about it.

Choose the roofer you wish to hire, taking all the factors into careful consideration. Remember that the lowest quote may not mean the roofer is the best choice. Place more weight on the contractor's experience and his attitude toward working with you. Sometimes the lower priced person is more economical because he has much less experience.

Read the contract thoroughly before you sign. Clarify the manufacturers chosen and the materials that will be used, and address any questions or concerns to your satisfaction prior to closing the deal.