APPLES TO ORANGES
We know that starting a roofing project can be overwhelming at times, between understanding what type of materials are ideal for your property, which supplier offers the best prices, or who can be truly reliable.
When comparing bids for a roofing project, many homeowners only look for three things:
High-quality materials
A warranty
A low price
These are important considerations, but just because a bid has all of these qualifications doesn’t mean it’s the best deal.
NOT ALL ROOFERS ARE CREATED EQUAL
Replacing your roof is a major investment which is why we always recommend homeowners do thorough research before selecting a roofing contractor for their project.
To help you find the right contractor for your project, we've put together this checklist with key points to keep in mind:
EXPERIENCE AND REPUTATION
Look for contractors with a solid track record and a good reputation in the community and industry. Check how long they have been in business and read reviews or testimonials from previous clients. Check if they are local. There are many fly-by-night contractors who will disappear after completing your project so it's important to select a contractor who is vested in the community and also nearby in the event you need to call them back out.
LICENSING AND INSURANCE
Ensure that the contractor is properly licensed to operate in your area and has the necessary insurance coverage, including liability insurance and workers' compensation. This protects you from any potential liabilities or damages that may occur during the project.
PORTFOLIO AND EXPERTISE
Review the contractor's portfolio to assess their expertise in different types of roofing projects. This can help determine if they have experience with the specific type of roof you have or the materials you want to use.
WRITTEN ESTIMATES
Obtain detailed written estimates from multiple contractors. Be sure the estimate includes a detailed scope of work down to the type of flashings and nails that will be used. Remember, if it’s not in the contract and if something goes wrong, it will be difficult to protect yourself down the road. The estimates should include a breakdown of costs for materials, labor, permits, and any additional services or warranties. Be wary of significantly low bids, as they may indicate subpar materials or workmanship.
COMMUNICATION AND PROFESSIONALISM
Pay attention to how responsive and professional the contractor is during your initial interactions. Good communication is essential throughout the roofing project, so choose a contractor who is prompt, attentive, and willing to address your concerns.
REFERENCES AND REFERRALS
Ask the contractor for references from previous clients and follow up with those references to get feedback on their experience. Additionally, seek referrals from friends, family, or neighbors who have recently had their roofs repaired or replaced. Facebook groups are a great way to gather referrals.
WARRANTY AND AFTER-SALES SERVICE
Inquire about the contractor's warranty on both materials and workmanship. Many contractors will offer a guarantee on their projects, but what does that really mean? More importantly, consider whether or not the company can back up what they promise in the first place. If a roofer offers you a five-year warranty on the material and installation, will they still be in business when it comes time to claim it? The fact is that most roofing contractors go out of business in the first two years, so be careful to do business with someone who is likely to be around for long-term support.
CERTIFICATION
A reputable contractor will be a certified installer for a shingle manufacturer and able to offer a top-notch warranty.
PRICE
When comparing estimates, take a look at both the total price and everything they have to offer. If it seems too low for the scope you’re expecting, something is probably wrong. If a roofer is able to offer you the lowest price on your list by a mile, it’s likely because they’re cutting corners somewhere in the process. The reality is that cheap isn’t good and good isn’t cheap. If a roofer doesn’t charge enough to complete the job well, you won’t be able to recoup a positive return on investment for your new roof.
PERMITS AND COMPLIANCE
Ensure the contractor understands and follows local building codes and regulations. They should be responsible for obtaining any necessary permits for the roofing project.
PAYMENT TERMS
Clarify the payment terms and schedule upfront. Be cautious of contractors who demand a large upfront payment before starting the project. It is common for contractors to request a deposit, but the majority of the payment should be made upon satisfactory completion of the work.
By carefully evaluating these factors and comparing multiple roofing contractors, you can make an informed decision and select a reliable professional for your roofing needs.
