If your roof has sustained any recent hail damage from spring storms, you may need to invest in a new one for your home. A new roof is an important investment for your home.
Some things to consider when selecting roofing materials are:
- Your roof should look attractive by coordinating with the colors of your home and other building materials such as stone, masonry or siding.
- You must improve your home's curb appeal and resale value if you plan to sell your home.
- It must be leak-free, fireproof, windproof, and durable to last at least 20 years.
However, before you start shopping for roofing materials, it's vital to find a qualified contractor to install your roof. A roof specialist can help you make the right decisions about the materials to choose, as well as how well they will complement the architectural style of your home. A contractor can not only make sure your new roof meets your requirements, they can also make sure they meet local building codes.
Here are seven things to consider when looking for a professional roofing contractor:
- Get referrals- Ask family, friends and co-workers to recommend contractors they have used. Make sure they are happy with the contractor's job performance.
- Research potential contractors- Visit their website. Verify your business address, phone number, and email. Make sure they are insured and licensed. Ask them for 3-5 customer references and talk to these people to fully understand how the contractor does business. Contact your local Better Business Bureau and chamber of commerce to see if they have any reported complaints.
- Meet with potential contractors- Have your short list of contractors visit your home to discuss your roofing job - what types of materials are best; what work will be done; How long will that take; and how many workers will be needed to complete the job. Assess whether the contractor is professional and knowledgeable. Don't be afraid to ask questions.
- Get multiple comparable offers- These offers must appear professional, be received in a timely manner, and include detailed information about your roofing project.
- You get what you pay for- Your roof is an investment, so don't select the cheapest deal to save some money. Write off the replacement cost over the life of the roof.
- Get everything in writing- Before your selected contractor does any work, get a signed contract that describes everything about the job, including the type of materials to be used, safety procedures, responsibility, when the job will start and finish, cleanup methods, payment amounts, product warranty and labor warranty.
- Make sure the permissions are in place- Call your local building department to find out what your contractor needs to start his job. Make sure any permits or bonds are completed before work begins.