How To: Find The Best Roofing Contractor

Roofing Contractor Research

So you are searching for a new asphalt shingle roof. It is just a matter of calling around to a couple of local roofing contractors to compare their quotes, select the cheapest one and pick a roofing color. I mean let’s face it, a shingle is a shingle, correct?

That statement could not be further from the truth. The roofing shingles are just one component of a complete roofing system. Today a roofing contractor needs to understand that each roofing job is a complete system. The quality of the system components as well as the installation will result in protecting the value of your home investment. Scrimp on any part of that package and you jeopardize that investment. This is why selecting the right roofing contractor is so much more than taking the cheapest bid.

It is a proven fact that when it comes to new asphalt shingles on a roof, proper installation of all the components is paramount to a successful long lasting roof system.

The very best way you protect your investment is to thoroughly investigate your roofing contractor choices and ask as many questions as possible. Before soliciting roofing contractor estimates, consult websites, such as the Better Business Bureau, your state attorney general’s office, and Labor Index, to check out legitimacy. Labor Index will show you all of the names under which a roofing contractor has operated. Multiple business name changes are surely red flags which might point to possible shady practices.

To locate reliable shingle roofing professionals in your area, consult associations such as the National Roofing Contractors Association (link provided below). Do not overlook talking with your local building supply store as well as friends because word of mouth is still a good way to find a reputable contractor.

Asphalt Shingles Selection

When searching for asphalt shingle roofing for your home obtain quotes from three to four roofing contractors. Take note as to how each one inspects your old asphalt shingle roof. Checking for adequate insulation as well as ventilation is imperative since if either or both are poor, this situation could have contributed to the old shingle deterioration and can also cause a build-up of moisture which leads to mold on the new shingles. Ask if the estimator has thoroughly looked for details in flashing, brick, chimney, walls, and under-layments.

Analyze the roofing shingles proposal contents. In addition to the estimate, make certain that their insurance certifications covers subcontractors working on the job. If it doesn’t, you may end up being liable if an accident occurs while your roof is being replaced. It is also a good practice to request to see the roofing contractors state license if your state requires one. Also look for contractors who follow OSHA guidelines.

Find an Honest Roofing Contractor

A roofing contractor that has nothing to keep from you won’t mind you’re come into their office to access their files to acquire contact information of past customers. When contacting former customers, see if they know any other homeowners who’ve worked with the company.

Among the hardest things to do is to accurately compare your roofing contractor estimates because everyone writes them differently. A weak or unwritten warranty may trick you into feeling you are covered for defects in products or poor workmanship. Check into details the warranty is offering and who is responsible for it. You want one that is enforced by the roofing manufacturer where you can find assurance that someone will contact you and come out and repair any issues that might occur.

You also want to compare each individual item in the system being replaced. Doing this will reveal discrepancies in the quality of products that are used by individual contractors.

For example when you check out ice and water shield, there is a generic product that costs $30 a roll, but costs can go up to $70 for the better ones.

The same is true of flashing components around architectural walls and chimneys, sealants, numbers and types of recommended vents, and other products as needed. More expensive item costs should translate into higher quality products.

The most important thing to remember when shopping for a roofing contractor and asphalt shingles is; don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you do not completely understand terminology or the importance of a better ice and water shield, do your research, ask at the building center or ask the roofing contractor for explanations until you do. This is really not as hard as it might sound. Remember that the more you inform yourself, the easier it will be to select a quality roofing contractor.

Learn more about finding a Qualified Roofing Contractor here