Installing a new roof could be one of the biggest home improvement projects you take on as a homeowner,
so it’s important to find a company or contractor that can do the job right. There’s a lot to consider when hiring a roofer, but choosing the right one is easy when you know what to look for. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when choosing a roofer for your next project.
Look for reliable contractors
Starting your search for a new roofer can be daunting, but there are plenty of ways you can easily find qualified contractors and roofing professionals in your area. You can check reviews for contractors or home improvement businesses online, or even look up or call around for credentials. You could also ask for referrals from friends, family and acquaintances who have had projects done at their homes so you don’t have to do all the research yourself. Seeing what other homeowners have to say, whether people you know or from online reviews, about contractors they’ve worked with could help you find one that’s a good fit for your needs.
Shop around before settling
Don’t just go with the first contractor or company you find. It’s recommended to interview at least three roofing professionals before choosing one for your home improvement project. It might be tempting to just compare costs, but remember that price isn’t everything. Be wary of bids that are too low—don’t let a small amount of savings sway you when a badly done job almost certainly means more repair costs down the line. In fact, people who spend less on roof installation ultimately wind up spending more money fixing issues that could have been avoided if a quality roofer was hired in the first place.
Check for insurance
It’s paramount that any roofing contractor or company you’re considering working with has insurance. This means both liability insurance and worker’s compensation to protect you, the homeowner, in the event of an accident. If you’re thinking about using a contractor, be sure to ask if they are covered by insurance—even ask to see the certificates or ask for the provider’s name to confirm they’re valid. Insurance not only helps to protect you, but it helps keep pricing even across roofing services. If the estimate is too low, it might be a sign that part of the cost isn’t going toward insurance coverage.
Get the details in writing
Clearly establish the terms of the project in writing before a contractor starts working on
your roof. A good rule of thumb when hiring a roofer is to not pay for the job in full until it’s completed. It’s normal for roofers to ask for a 50% deposit or payment as work gets done. This helps ensure that you’re satisfied with the result before parting with your money. Some other things to establish in writing before work starts are how big the crew will be and how long the job will take, including the completion date.
It’s easy to find the right roofer if you know where—and how—to look. If you sort through your options, ask questions and read reviews, you’ll be set for your next home improvement project.
Looking to repair or replace your roof? The experts at Kline Home Exteriors can help you learn your options.
