Not all roofing companies are created equal. A quick Internet search will reveal the many options available, and you may be tempted to choose the cheapest contractor or one with the most attractive ads. But making the right choice can save you a lot of headache and money. Here are some tips for choosing a reputable roofing company.
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Choose a local business
Roofing companies come in two varieties: national chains that operate out of several locations and smaller, local companies. There are pros and cons to each approach, but there’s no question that using a local company is your best bet in many cases.
National chains have their advantages, but local businesses are more likely to offer superior customer service because they want your repeat business and referrals.
Get several estimates
This is basic advice for any big home improvement project. Don’t rely on one estimate; get at least three from different contractors to make sure you’re not being overcharged. Make sure only contractors who actually visited your home wrote the estimates so they can give an accurate price based on your roofing needs.
Check references
Checking references is a must when choosing any contractor, including roofers. Ask each contractor you’re considering to provide a list of references from previous customers. You can contact us for more information.
EXPERIENCE
Experience with the type of roofing you’re installing is important. When talking to contractors, ask questions about the material you’ve chosen, and if they’ve ever worked with that specific material before. A reputable roofing contractor should be able to explain how your roof will be installed and why they chose the materials they did.
SIZE OF ROOFING COMPANY
How big a company is shouldn’t be a factor in choosing a contractor, but it is. Larger companies often have more resources and can handle bigger jobs, while smaller companies can provide more personalized service. The size of your job should match up with the size of the company you hire. You shouldn’t hire a single-man crew to install new roofs on an apartment complex. Nor should you hire a large crew for a small house or shed.
When you’re looking for a roofing company, you want one that will offer the best service and be around to honor any warranties. Here are a few things to consider when selecting a roofing contractor:
Verify that the company has a permanent physical address and phone number.
Check if the contractor is licensed, bonded and insured for your protection.
Ask about their warranty policy and what it covers.
Ask for references from previous jobs, as well as addresses so you can see their work.