What to Consider When Choosing a Roofing Contractor

Homeowners generally only need roof repair once — provided it’s correctly done. But how do know you’re face to face with the right contractor? Recommendations from family and friends make a good start, but it shouldn’t end there. 

To make sure you end up with the best roofer available to you, look into the following before hiring anyone: 

Licensing

To avoid being scammed, work only with a licensed roofing contractor. The requirements for licensure vary from state to state. Typically, there is a fee to pay as well as a series of exams to pass. They are required to get liability and property insurance too, besides taking continuing education courses and paying another fee for license renewal.

Roof Ventilation

Hire a roofer who can guarantee effective ventilation, which makes a huge difference in terms of a roof’s integrity. Poor ventilation can drastically shorten the lifespan of shingles while making your air conditioning unit work double time, thus increasing your energy bill.

Insurance Protection

Sometimes, mistakes and resulting issues are unavoidable, but you want a roofer who is prepared for the worst. Otherwise, damages may be on you. Before hiring anyone, insist you see proof of their insurance. You'll want to know more about parsons roofing now. 

Local Benefits

Local contractors are more concerned about work quality because most of their clients comes through a referral. On the other hand, roofers who can pack up and exit town the next day don't have to think much about word of mouth. Besides, dealing with a contractor is more difficult when you have to cross state borders to find them.

Warranties

Your roofing contractor must offer you a workmanship, workers compensation, and roof system warranty, and discuss what’s covered and what’s not. From high-wind damage to algae-caused streaks to manufacturing defects to ventilation issues, there are several reasons to make sure you not only get the right warranties but also enough coverage.

Client References

Roofers who don't have any previous clients happy to vouch for their performance is a red flag. If the roofer does offer references, talk to them to know if they’re legit. Do look up roofing company atl info. 

Guarantee Against Algae

It’s unfortunate that homeowners often ignore their roofs until these become terribly unsightly or show signs of damage. When a roof looks very dirty, it’s commonly due to algae. Hire a roofer that offers some type of protection against this.

Use of Subcontractors

Lastly, if your roofer hires subcontractors, check if a representative from the roofing company will be available on site as your new roof is installed - there should be someone you can talk to in case of problems or questions you want to ask. Learn more about roofing materials here: https://www.reference.com/home-garden/different-types-roofing-materials-e5b4801b4374fe26?aq=roofing&qo=cdpArticles