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Two key ingredients go into a dependable roof replacement: quality materials and a skilled, experienced roofer. When both come together, you’ll end up with a strong, beautiful roof that protects your home for 20-30 years!
Start by getting quotes from at least three contractors, but don’t stop there. Knowing what to look for as you talk with each roofer is the real secret to finding the right fit. Let’s take a look at some practical questions that’ll help you choose the best roofing contractor for your project.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Local Roofer
Before reaching out to a few contractors, do your homework. Research their track record by reading online reviews, look up their rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and find out what others have to say on Angi. If you’re satisfied a roofer may be a good fit for you, schedule an estimate and ask them some probing questions while you are with them.
Are you licensed and insured?
Verifying your potential roofer is licensed will confirm they meet state requirements and are up-to-date on building codes. Ensure they are insured, which will protect you from financial liability in case of accidents or property damage. Both of these are essential, and if either is missing, it’s best to keep looking for a contractor.
Do you offer a free, on-site inspection?
Hiring a roofer begins with scheduling a thorough inspection. As part of the inspection, they may take photos of the damage they find and recommend either roof repairs or replacement.
Will you provide a detailed written estimate?
A written estimate gives you something to review after the roofer completes their inspection. It should include materials and labor so there are no surprises once the work begins.
What is your specialty?
Many roofers specialize in installing asphalt roofs by a particular manufacturer. If what they specialize in aligns with your desires, you may just have a match!
May I see some of your recent projects?
Nothing speaks louder than the work a contractor has recently completed. You’ll learn a lot about the attention to detail and expertise they put into their work by seeing it for yourself before hiring them.
Can you provide me with a few referrals?
Ask the potential roofer for 2-3 referrals of past customers. Talk with their clients about how satisfied they are with the finished product and the experience, how well the roofer stayed within the estimate/budget, if they completed the roof replacement on time, and how they dealt with any unforeseen obstacles. Ask open-ended questions that give the previous customers liberty to share their experience candidly.
Has your crew been trained to install certain types of roofing materials?
Each roofer has their preferred manufacturer, and many are trained by the manufacturer themselves. Find out if they are trained to install industry-leading GAF roofing (like us!) so you’re ensured premium roofing materials and expert installation.
What type of warranties do you offer?
Find out if the contractor offers any workmanship warranties on their installation, and what type of warranty the manufacturer includes. Often, the manufacturer’s warranty can be bolstered for a fee if you want extra coverage. Ask if the contractor will be filing the warranty information or if you should plan on it.
How will you protect my property during and after the installation process?
When you hire a roofer, you’ll want someone who will treat your property like it is their own. For example, they should go the extra mile to protect your driveway from impact when a dumpster is placed on it to collect debris. How? By placing plywood under the dumpster to distribute its weight and prevent damage. They should clean up your yard daily after completing their work and use a large magnet to sweep over it to ensure there are no stray nails or debris left behind that could cause an accident.
When can you schedule my project?
Ensure your roofer’s availability matches your desires. Fall is a great time to schedule your roof replacement since summer is so busy for most roofers. You probably won’t have to wait as long to get on their schedule if you shoot for replacing your roof in autumn.
How long will my roof replacement take?
Most roof replacements are accomplished in 1-3 days. The type of roofing material, house size, complexity (slopes, chimneys, skylights), the number of existing layers to remove, crew size, and weather conditions all play a part in your project’s timeline.
What is your inclement weather policy?
It’s important that you know what to expect if the weather doesn’t cooperate with your roof replacement.
How do you ensure safety for your workers?
Roofing is risky work, so verify the company you hire trains their crew in precautions to take to ensure their safety on your property.
Do you dispose of my home’s old roofing materials?
The first step in your roof replacement is the removal of your current roof. It should be disposed of by the company you hire, and the charge for that should be included on the estimate.
What is your payment schedule?
Most roofers want a deposit upfront, and the remainder of the balance upon completion of your roofing project.
Do you offer financing?
This convenience can make it easier to replace your roof in a timely fashion.
Do you work with my insurance company to file a claim?
If your roof replacement is due to storm damage, find out if the contractor will work with your insurance company.
Get a Durable, Beautiful Roof Replacement Installed by Our Experienced Team
At Giant Siding and Windows, we’ve been family owned and operated for three generations. Our in-house installation teams specialize in specific products—like premium GAF roofing installation—so you can rest at ease that your new roofing system will be installed with meticulous attention to detail. Learn more about how our roofing services can boost your home’s curb appeal while safeguarding it from the elements.
