Your roof is one of the most important elements of your home. One can consider a roof to be the backbone of a building because of the structural support it offers. Many things in your home would be impossible to do without a roof, including lighting, electrical wiring, and interior design. Without your roof, you’re left susceptible to dangerous weather, hot and cold temperature, debris and dirt, and many other unforeseen natural elements. When it comes to roofing, it’s important to do it correctly and quickly! You can easily avoid making things more difficult for yourself and your home by investing in the essential actions. The first step could be contacting a roofing contractor.
Who Is A Roofing Contractor?
A roofing contractor is someone who works on repairing and replacing roofs of homes and commercial structures. They are a company with a diverse workforce that includes sales personnel, designers, foremen, roofers, and other crew members. As a result, they all have a great deal of knowledge and expertise in installing roofs, allowing them to complete roof replacements of the greatest quality.
They understand how to handle different components of the re-roofing process, and they have the skill sets to take on challenging or complex projects, deal with unexpected issues, and complete the job on time and within the budget that had been planned. Roofing contractors may also be involved in siding and window installations in addition to roofs.
As a result, you can often get a diverse array of improvements done by a single, competent business that specializes in home exteriors. Here is a list of some more advantages you could experience by opting for a roofing contractor.
Advantages of opting for a Roofing Contractor
1) Professionalism and expertise
A good roofing contractor should have at least five years of experience in the field and a good reputation goes hand in hand with enough experience in any given sector. An expert roofing contractor is well-versed in the installation, maintenance, roof repair, and roof replacement of various roofing materials.
2) High-Quality Materials
Professional roofing contractors tend to use materials of the highest grade for their procedures like repairs or installations because they increase the longevity of your structure. A good roofing contractor also provides you with helpful insights for the maintenance of your roof.
3) Economical
Hiring professional commercial roofing contractors will save you a huge amount of money, particularly in the long term. Many homeowners think that the DIY approach is easier but on the contrary, this can cost you a lot of money than you may anticipate. The key reason behind this is that your roof will be repaired in the short run but it also lowers your roof’s longevity. Professional roofers will provide you with prime services at an affordable price. In addition, they also perform extensive research and prepare an estimate before beginning a roofing technique.
4) Control Over Time
Since they have access to high-tech roofing tools, the right roofing contractor will be able to complete the job on time. Furthermore, these professionals have had extensive training in this field and will be aware of the appropriate techniques for various roofs. You’ll also have peace of mind knowing that your roof is in good hands, allowing you to focus on your daily activities.
5) Warranty
A professional roofing contractor usually offers a warranty considering their services are of high quality. In addition, a warranty gives a client the advantage because any repairs in the quoted warranty period will be performed free of charge.
To experience the aforementioned benefits, one has to find the right roofing contractor. Continue reading the following write-up for 8 useful tips to choose the right roofing contractor.
Tips To Choose The Right Roofing Contractor
1) Samples of previous work or references
By requesting samples and testimonials, you can get a fair idea of how well a roofing contractor completes a roofing job. Allow the contractor to show you images of their completed work and also look for portfolios on the websites of contractors you’re interested in. Request references of previous clients the contractor have worked with. Try to contact these clients and inquire about their experiences. Find out if they were pleased with the job of the roofer.
2) Choose a roofer who offers project management on-site
The best roofing contractors employ a project manager on-site at all times to ensure that everything runs properly and to perform quality control. If you’re spending thousands of dollars on a new roof, you shouldn’t have to do anything to implement the project.
These professionals are those who can answer your questions and address your problems.
3) Licenses And Insurances
Licenses and insurance protect homes and roofers in a variety of scenarios – they’re the only thing saving you from tragedy if something goes wrong during the roofing procedure. That’s why it’s critical that any roofer you work with has all of the necessary licenses and insurance, and to have them handy at all times.
4) Filter Your Choices
Make a list of the top 10 contractors in your region. Then, narrow down your list according to your criteria of requirements. Contractors that are not insured or licensed, that have a poor rating, have a spate of negative customer reviews online, and those who are prepared to offer you a price over the line without inspecting your site can be crossed off your list.
5) Ability To Give A Quick Estimate
Each of your potential contractors should provide you with a written estimate as soon as possible. If you have to wait more than a week for an estimate, that contractor isn’t ready to manage your project effectively. Obtaining a quote also makes it simple to plan your budget.
6) Detail Cleanup Post Work
Your contractor’s written agreement should include post-construction cleanup. If it isn’t stated, make sure it is before signing on the dotted line. You’ll avoid being left with a huge mess on your hands once the task is completed if you obtain it in writing. Material removal should be included in this cleaning, especially if the work involves a total roof replacement.
By following the tips above and taking any additional precautions necessary before the roofing work begins, you can guarantee that the process goes hassle-free. Once you’ve shortlisted the right contractor for your space, there are a few questions you’d like to ask, and here are a few of them.
What Is The Name Of The Company And Where Are They Based?
The first thing you should do is inquire about the roofing company’s complete address and name. If they utilize a post office box, they must provide information regarding their physical location.
I) Do They Involve Roofing Subcontractors?
Inquire if they outsource any part of their work to subcontractors. If that’s the case, ask the same questions about their roofing subcontractors, especially if they’re insured.
II) Do They Have Appropriate Credentials And Expertise?
You may also ask for information regarding the contractor’s credentials and training to ensure that you’re working with someone who knows what they’re doing when it comes to roof repairs. Is there any manufacturing certification for the roofer? Is it possible for them to give a system guarantee? Your coverage will be extended to include both labor and materials under the system warranty.
III) What Is Your Work Schedule?
For your roof improvement project, scheduling the time for each task is an ideal plan. For example, the task for day 1 could be inspecting the damage, etc. Finding out if this aligns with your calendar and to-do list of those days would make the process more convenient for both of you.
Roofing contractors can do more than only repair or replace roofs. Contrary to popular opinion, they can provide a variety of services in addition to basic roofing installation and maintenance. So, if you’re wondering what services a roofing company could possibly provide, the following information is for you.
Services Offered By Roofing Contractors
i) Roof Insulation Services
Roofs are also designed to function as insulators, keeping the cold or heat out. Your home will be unable to maintain a comfortable inside temperature without a properly insulated roof. A non-insulated roof will also put undue strain on your home’s air conditioning, resulting in increased energy expenditures. A roofing contractor can not only repair or replace broken insulation but also reinforce or enhance it to match your unique insulation requirements.
ii) Inspection and consulting services
You can always call a roofing contractor for an inspection if your roof is exhibiting indications of deterioration and to know the extent of the damage. Roofers will inspect the damage and assist you in determining the best course of action. Roofing contractors often provide consulting services in addition to inspections. During the consultation, companies may estimate the cost, the projected time for the job, and the sort of roofing job that would best fit your needs.
iii) Maintenance and Cleaning
Leaves and other debris can build up on your roof, clogging drains and limiting water flow. Water can accumulate and enter your structure through the flashings when drainage is hindered. As a result, many roofing contractors offer roof maintenance and post-work cleanup services as well.
iv) Commercial Roofing
These projects might be of various sizes and levels of difficulty. The commercial roofing services are provided by a company with extensive expertise in the sectors like industrial, commercial, and institutional buildings.
v) Domestic Roofing
This mostly involves home roof installation, repair, and upkeep.
vi) Post Calamity Repairs
Storms and other natural disasters are inevitable. If a storm breaks into your home, it may cause the roof to collapse or be entirely destroyed. This service of fixing roofs after storm damage is provided by a professional roofing contractor.
There’s considerable debate over whether to engage a local roofing contractor or maybe a general contractor when it’s time to plan roof repair or replacement. In most circumstances, making the selection is simple if you know what jobs you need to get done and what function each sort of contractor plays.
Difference Between Roofing Contractor and General Contractor
| Roofing Contractor | General Contractor |
| A roofing contractor is a professional who specializes in the construction of roofs. They work with a range of materials, including shingles, bitumen, and metal, to replace, repair, and install roofs of structures. | A general contractor is an organization that operates in the construction industry in a variety of sectors, including residential, commercial, and industrial. |
| They specialize in roofing. This includes concerns with gutters, fascia boards, and even chimneys. | They specialize in all elements of single-family and multi-family house building, including renovations and new construction. |
| Roofing contractors also do their own job rather than delegating it to subcontractors. | He or she is in charge of overseeing these initiatives, many of which need the participation of subcontractors from other fields. |
| A good roofing contractor is experienced enough and will usually be able to supply you with a long number of references to back up their claims. | While general contractors are usually skilled and experienced, they aren’t the greatest choice for re-roofing your home because, while they know a lot about construction, they aren’t experts in any one area of the building. |
| Roofing contractors can also work on siding and window installations in addition to roofs. As a result, you can often get a diverse array of repairs done by a single, competent contractor with comprehensive expertise in home exteriors.f | Employing a general contractor may result in you paying more than if you hired a roofing contractor directly as they take a cut before passing on the roofing job payments to the roofing contractor. |
Roofing is one of the most challenging home improvement projects, and it also seems to be one of the most expensive upgrades you can do. Consider the following suggestions for negotiating with your contractor to guarantee you get the greatest deal on your project.
1) Inquire about discounts or special offers
You might still negotiate even if your contractor’s estimate is reasonable. Check with your contractor to see if they can undertake minor repairs and upgrades, such as optional add-ons, at a discounted price.
Another option is to inquire about package costs. Ask your contractor if they can combine repair services into one package price if you want to replace or add gutters, vents, or any other repair or addition to improve your home.
2) Increase The Down Payment
Without a deposit, professional roofing contractors will not begin fixing or replacing your roof. This is one of the finest chances for you to lower the price by making a larger down payment. This action will assist you in obtaining the best bargain possible during the contract time and is useful when dealing with more expensive repairs.
3) Recognize what has to be done
Bring in a few contractors to offer you their expert opinion so you can clear up any worries you may have about the task ahead and learn more about it. You’ll be better prepared to negotiate the job’s cost estimates after you understand what has to be done and why each approach is used.
4) Be Fair
If your roofing business is already offering you the best deal based on similar quotes, don’t waste the contractor’s time by asking for further negotiations. It will not only fail, but it will also take on a negative tone that might harm your long-term connection with your roofing provider. Inform the roofing contractor about the similar estimates and inquire about why their services are more pricey. Make sure you aren’t getting the best deal by compromising quality and durability.
According to the Rad Law Firm, 97% of all roofing accidents happen at home. A timely assessment of your external and interior areas, roof perimeter, and other regions such as drainage, penetrations, and joints improves the safety of your roof. Proper maintenance keeps your roof in good condition, ensuring that little concerns are treated immediately, thereby preventing potentially large problems. Considering the information shared above, a good roofing contractor is the key to a healthy roof.
If you’re looking for some best roofers on the mainline, reach out to Hynes today as our expertise comes with a spectrum of commercial roofing services such as emergency roof repair, roof replacement, installation of the roof, and other roofing options. Feel free to contact our roofing contractors in Philadelphia right away and get your estimate from the convenience of your home because a wise man once said, “ A stitch In Time Saves Nine!”
Reach out to Hynes Construction at - 610-896-6388 Or Fill Contact Form
(President, Hynes Roofing and Siding)
With over 35 years experience in the roofing and siding industry, Michelle Hynes has built a business from 2 people into over 45 people and 19 trucks!
