Noticing damages to your existing roof? It may be time to replace it. Never fear. We’ve made a small list of most common questions that you should ask potential roofers before conducting business with him.
Do you have a roofers contractor’s license?
To ensure top quality work, you must find a roofer that has an updated license in your state. Building code requirements differ from each state. Do research to prevent you, and your roofers, from running into unnecessary trouble.
Are you covered by a workman’s compensation insurance?
Contractors are required by the law to cover their employees with compensation insurance. However, there are some firms that refuse to comply because of the cost of insurance plans. When hiring people, make sure that they are covered. If the worst-case scenario happens and someone gets injured on the site, you’ll be safe from having to cover that person’s medical bills.
Am I covered by general liability insurance?
While workman’s compensation ensures that you do not have to pay for anyone’s injuries while on site, general liability insurance protects your property from any damage that may be caused by your roofers while on the job.
Are you going to remove my old roof?
Don’t fall for the trap where roofers tell you that they will only need to make minor adjustments on your old roof. There may still be underlying problems in your old roof that can only be fixed by replacing the old roof with a brand new one.
Is attaching drip edges or edge metal included when you install my new roof?
Installing drip edges prevents your roof from incurring water damage. These pieces of aluminum are placed under the shingles of your roof to prevent water from running behind the gutters. Remember to ask your roofing contractor because some of them will skip over this if not mentioned.
Ask your contractors to use ladder stabilizers or standoffs.
Ladders are heavy equipment that may damage your gutters if not used with stabilizers or standoffs. What’s a good roof without a good gutter? If your contractors do not want to use stabilizers, ask them about how they’ll ensure that your gutters are damage free after the installation of your new roof.
If it rains, what will happen to the roofing project?
Construction’s worst enemy is always the weather. Remember to make sure that your roofer has a plan for your project. Make sure that they’ll be able to handle the weather, rain or shine. Ask them if they’ll be able to cover the project with plastic covering or tarpaulin, and if they’ll be able to get someone to ensure the safety of these covers in case they get blown over.
How long is the warranty period for my roof?
The minimum amount you should hear from your roofer is 25 years.
Will my landscaping be protected while this project is on going?
Remember to also take care of your existing fixtures around your house. Don’t let yourself spend more than what you have already budgeted for the project. This includes making sure that your landscaping doesn’t get damaged by asking your roofer where they will put their equipment to avoid damaging your landscaping.
Will you provide a written estimate?
Signing contracts without a detailed estimate on paper may cause you problems with budgeting as the project progresses. Thoroughly check the contract before you sign. Make sure that all details that you need to know are covered on the paper. Don’t be afraid to negotiate terms. After all, this will be the new roof of your beloved home.
If you have any roofing questions, feel free to call us at 1-877-405-0409