A roof’s main role is to protect against external climatic conditions and severe weather. But, strong winds, heavy rain, storms, and severe snow can deteriorate roofing components, making it necessary for repairs or a full replacement.
If your roof is more than thirty years old, chances are it has shown signs of wear and tear, or you might just be ready for a refresh. That’s where hiring a professional roofer comes in. Professional roofers have the expertise and tools needed to complete the roofing process within a short time.
However, choosing and hiring the right roofer is not always easy, considering the amount of roofing contractors available. If you have a roofing project and are overwhelmed by your choices, it’s recommended to consider a few important qualities to be sure you pick the best candidate. This guide will explore the main benefits of working with a professional roofer, and discuss the four main qualities to look for when hiring a roofer.
Characteristics of a Quality Roofer
1. Experience and Proven History
How long has the contractor been in the roofing industry? You need excellent roofing results, and this means that you should work with an experienced contractor.
Roofers with the most experience deliver incredible results because they have encountered numerous problems, and have worked on a variety of properties. So, when hiring, be sure to check their proven work history. One way to know more about the contractor’s experience is to visit their website. When was the company started, and how many clients have they serviced? What about photos of the past work? Are they impressive?
You can also engage the contractor in a conversation to learn more about them. The key is to ensure you find out everything about the contractor, including their qualifications. When you are done with your research, you will most likely find the best candidate for the job.
2. Excellent Communication Skills
Communication is key when finding a good roofing contractor. You need to hire someone to talk to freely before, during, and after the project. Listen to how the contractor talks to you:
- Are they harsh?
- Are they willing to answer your questions?
- Do they answer calls and emails in a timely manner?
Don’t work with anyone who isn’t willing to provide clear descriptions for your project. Ask relevant questions, from the project’s cost to how long the project will take. Only hire the contractor who is willing to explain hard concepts, reliable, and has communication etiquette.
3. Verified Permits, Licenses, and Insurance
Both residential and commercial roofers should have a valid license as this shows that the contractor meets the minimum requirements, such as state-related training. The company’s insurance should be valid and bear the contractor’s name.
Another vital credential to check is insurance coverage from a reputable source. Liability insurance coverage ensures that you are not liable for any damages or injuries arising from an unfortunate accident during your roofing project.
A quality roofer will confidently show you their license, insurance, and other verified permits before the project starts. Be sure to discuss the verified permits for your projects before you hire.
4. References and Customer Reviews
What do other people say about the contractor? References are major considerations when looking for the right contractor to hire. Ideally, the best contractor will show you references from past clients. They will give you contacts of past clients to check completed work, and ask a few questions about their experience.
In addition to the references, you can check customer reviews to get a bigger picture of the contractor’s character. Too many complaints and negative feedback can be a warning sign that the roofer might not be the best choice. You can find customer reviews from the contractor’s website on the customer review page or from another credible source like Google Reviews.
Positive reviews from different platforms will give you more confidence in hiring the roofer, especially if it’s a larger project. Avoid roofers with zero reviews and references, or those who are not willing to allow you to check their reviews.
Why Hiring a Professional Roofer Matters
Here are compelling reasons why you should hire a professional roofer for your upcoming roofing project.
#1. Roofers Follow the City’s Building Code
Every city has rules and regulations regarding designing and building a home. A professional roofer ensures you adhere to those rules to avoid legal repercussions.
#2. They Are Skilled
Roofing is a labor-intensive skill that requires handling different roofing materials and components. Professional roofers use their knowledge to accomplish the task without making errors.
#3. They Can Save You From Potential Huge Risks
Roofing involves many risks, like accidents. The chances of falling or getting hurt are high for people with limited roofing knowledge which is why extensive roofing expertise can save you from an accident. Roofers are trained on the safety standards, and have the tools needed to protect themselves while on the job.
#4. They Offer Excellent Advice
In addition to quality work, a professional roofer can offer helpful advice on the best roofing materials to use with consideration to the design of your home. This advice can help you get the best results, and save on unnecessary expenses.
#5. They Offer Warranties
Roofing contractors offer warranties after project completion. If anything gets damaged after project completion, you can always contact them for post-service needs.
#6. They Are Cost-Effective
DIY roofing can be costly when you don’t have the right tools or skills. Roofing contractors can help you save money when you have a budget. Plus, there is no added cost for errors or mistakes because the work is top-quality.
Hire the Right Roofing Contractor
The factors listed above are some of the most vital details to consider when hiring a professional roofer, and we encourage you to never settle for less. When reviewing potential candidates, it’s important to follow your instincts, so you get the best possible roofing contractor for your roofing needs. Here at A to Z Construction, we take pride in providing top-notch roofing services whether it’s simple repairs, a new installation, or full renovation. We encourage you to contact our team today to get a free estimate for your roofing project.
