A good roofing contractor is one of the most essential tools in a homeowner’s arsenal. Whether you find yourself needing a simple roof repair, a brand new roof installation, or a complete roof replacement, it’s best to have a trusted roofer on deck to tackle your most daunting roofing project. But how do you find this exceptional contractor?
There is nothing we value more than a job well done. We’re happy to offer some helpful tips and tricks on how to hire a roofer for your next roofing job.
When should I start looking for a roofer?
There are a few instances where you should begin searching for a roofer:
- Roof repair
- New roof installation
- Roof replacement
- roof maintenance
- Inspection purposes
A roofing company or independent contractor may work on repairs or replacements while an installer may not. It’s important to hire an experienced roofer that knows how to complete your particular project.
Roof repair
Image source: NRC Roofing & Restoration
Depending on the extent of the damage and the type of roof you have, a roof repair can run you anywhere from $300 to $1,500.
If your roof is suffering from minor damage, such as missing shingles, you'll be looking at about a $50 to $800 repair with a licensed roofing contractor. If you choose to go the DIY route, it may cost you as little as $20 to replace your asphalt shingles.
Roof replacement or new roof installation
A roof replacement or new roof installation can cost a pretty penny, but it all depends on the square footage of your roof. Before getting a contractor's opinion, be sure to document the damage and take note of the age of your roof. Typically, roofs less than ten years old are covered under warranty. In some cases, your insurance company may even pay for your new roof.
General roof maintenance and inspection
Routine roof maintenance is guaranteed to increase your roof's lifespan. A standard roof inspection can cost anywhere from $100 to $600. Unfortunately, this doesn't cover certification or the cost of any repairs that may rear their heads during the process.
Depending on the roofing material, you may want to consider having your roof inspected twice a year – once in the fall and once again in the spring. These inspections will serve to provide you with peace of mind that no shingles went missing or unsightly leaks seeped through in the winter months.
How to find the perfect roofer for the job
Now that you’ve determined the sort of roofing project you’re up against, it’s time to begin the search for an experienced roofer. Here are three essential tips to consider on your hunt.
Research local roofers and get referrals
Image source: California Roofing Pros
Home improvement should be taken seriously, and you should never settle for the first roofing contractor you come across. Instead, take the time to research local roofers and comb through plenty of online reviews. These reviews are first-hand accounts of what it’s like to work with a particular roofing business or contractor.
When you buckle down and do the proper research, you’ll get an in-depth look at each professional roofer’s workmanship, read through helpful testimonials, get Better Business Bureau ratings, and more!
Screen any roofers you may want to work with
If you've gathered a few roofers you're interested in working with, we recommend setting up a brief screening phone call or appointment. This allows you time to prepare a few questions to ask each roofer. Screening your roofer is an important part of the process and allows you to discern which roofer is right for your project. When you screen your roofer, you'll gather important pricing information, whether they use subcontractors, if they have liability insurance or worker's compensation insurance, and if they'll remove your old roof.
Screening your roofer will help you save time and headaches in the long run!
Determine the best time for your roofing project
After you've screened and chosen your roofer, it's time to determine when to start your project. The best time of year to begin roofing repairs is between summer and fall. The weather is far more consistent and cooler in the fall, ensuring that your roofing system can be repaired or replaced quickly and efficiently.
After you have found your roofing contractor
Image source: NRC Roofing & Restoration
Once you’ve found your preferred roofer and are ready to begin construction, there are a few things you should keep in mind once the project commences.
Ask for a tentative end date or date of completion
While weather and schedules may delay your roofing project, you should ask your roofing contractor for an estimated date of completion. Construction could take some time, and a roof repair or replacement will impact your daily life. Deciding on an end date and sticking to it will allow you to plan around construction.
Do not pay the entire balance upfront
To protect yourself from being caught in a scam, never pay the complete roof cost upfront. A reasonable and reliable roofer will likely have you pay when the job is complete or negotiate a payment plan that coincides with your roofing project.
Participate in the roofing process
Aside from your contractor, the responsibility of keeping a roof over your head ultimately falls to you. Your home serves as the job site, and we recommend that you participate in the roofing process. Be sure to communicate with your project manager as often as possible to ensure that the job is done to your satisfaction.
Find a local, reputable roofer today
Want to get a jump start on your quest for the perfect roofer? Fixr.com is here to help. With a wealth of information, a plethora of reviews, and access to dependable contractors, finding the right roofer for your project is a breeze.
Gianna Cappuccio is a home improvement writer at Fixr.com. After obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in English from Montclair State University in 2016, Gianna decided to pursue a career in writing and editing. When she is not busy reading about home improvement and design, she can be found on the occasional hike or enjoying the latest television show.