Questions for your Roofing Contractor

It can be hard to find a good roofing contractor like Steadfast Roofers. Your roof could be leaking or damaged. You will need to look into all options in order to find a trustworthy roofing contractor in your local area. You might not know what makes a contractor trustworthy or good. This is especially true if you are a first-time homeowner, or if they have never done any work before.

These are 12 questions to ask potential roofing contractors before signing the contract.

1. Are you a licensed roofer?

Many states require roofers to have a license in order to work. There are different laws and requirements in each state. It is important to be familiar with the requirements of your local codes in order to make informed decisions. It'll be easy to determine if the Pittsburgh roofer you hire will follow your state's regulations. If the roofer is not licensed, you will be able to contact legal counsel to help fix the problem.

2. ARE YOU INCLUDED in WORKMAN'S COMPENSATION INSURANCE?

Roofers should inquire about workman's compensation insurance. Contractors may not be covered by insurance but they can be held responsible for injuries to their property.

3. Do you have general liability coverage?

While roofers are covered under workman's compensation insurance while they are on your premises, you should still be concerned about any potential damage to your property from the work. Request a copy of the certificate of insurance to confirm that your roofer is insured for general liability. This will ensure that no damage to your home, roof, or property is caused by someone else.

4. CONTACT SUBCONTRACTORS FOR A ROOFING OPTION

Subcontractors may be subcontractors for roofing work. It is important to check whether subcontractors are employed and whether workers' comp or general liability insurance is in effect. This can protect you in case the contractor fails to pay subcontractors.

5. Is it possible to take down my old roof?

Roofers are required to inspect your roof before shingling it. Visual inspections will not pick up any rotten or soft areas. They can make your roof even more difficult in the long term if they aren't detected. It is essential to remove any old roof before you can identify and fix them.

6. WILL YOU INCLUDE DRIP EDGE/EDGE METAL IN THE INSTALLATION OF MY NEW ROOF?

Drip edge, also known as edge metal, is a small piece of aluminum that extends from the roof below the roofing shingle. This directs rainwater to the gutters, and not behind them. This saves roof fascias and wood. This is something some roofers won’t do unless asked.

7. WOULD YOU PROTECT YOUR GUTTERS WITH LADDER STABILISERS DURING ROOF INSTALLATION?

It is easy to forget that roofers will need access to your roof when you are looking for a replacement roof. It is vital for the safety and security of your gutters. While your roof is being replaced, stabilizers and standoffs can help protect your gutters. Ask your roofing company whether they use ladder stabilizers or standoffs to protect your gutters. They will not be able to answer your questions so they probably aren't the right contractor.

8. DO YOU BRING A CONTAINER FOR REFUSE MATERIALS?

Replacing a roof can lead to a lot of trash. This includes old plywood, nails, and drip edge. You don't have to provide a container for the service or take away the trash after it has been removed. Anybody who is responsible for your roof's care should bring their container to Jobsite to dispose of the trash.

9. Are you able to provide a physical address as well as a phone number? Do you have the ability to live in this area?

It is important to verify that the contractor you are interested in hiring has a physical location. APO Box is a bad way to run a business. A P.O. box is not a good way to run your business. Boxes are usually a red flag. Ask for their physical address, their phone number, and full name. It is a good idea to ask for their physical address and phone number.

Roofers may travel to Florida in search of work. What if they're not local? What happens if your roof isn't up to scratch? They may not be able to resolve any problems or concerns if they are from another city or state.

10. HOW LONG DOES MY NEW ROOF COME WITH A WARRANTY?

Shingles are cheaper than older shingles but last longer. Shingles should last at least 25-years. Ask about the guarantee period. Grain should not be sold with less than a 25-year warranty.

11. What is the price of plywood if you find a soft roof or rotten roof?

It can surprise homeowners because some roofers may not be upfront and include this in their contract. It is important to know upfront how much plywood it will cost, in case the roofer decides that they want to replace it.

12. Are there any people who can answer my questions while I work?

Imagine coming home from work one afternoon to discover that your roofers had left a gap in your roof. They're now packing up their trucks and moving on to the next job. Before you leave, it is important to confirm that the roofers will be there to cover the hole. Who do you call? Before work begins, you should know the name of your project manager. This will enable you to contact them directly with any complaints or questions, instead of the group (who might not have one).