Fortunately, replacing a roof isn’t an annual occurrence. A properly installed roof, constructed with quality materials can last for 15 to 30 years or even longer. The quality and value of your roof are substantially reflected in your home’s value, but it is also a significant investment.
When the time comes for you to replace your roof, you will probably have many questions. That´s because, in general, replacing a roof is not something that happens very frequently. Also, it’s not something you want to have any regrets over. It needs to come out perfectly the first time around. That´s why it´s so important to get to know your roofer, the way they work and roofs they have installed previously, before signing on the dotted line. Here are some aspects of quality workmanship you should look out for:
Page Contents
1 – Protective Measures
No doubt about it, a new roof is a big project. However, you want to make sure it doesn’t turn into an even bigger one by damaging something else. Your roofer should give you clear instructions as to where to park your cars, what to do with your outdoor furniture, how to protect your landscaping, and even ask you to make sure your dog is kept inside the house. You should also be told what is going to happen to debris and other trash that is going to be accumulating as the project progresses. How often will it be picked up?
In most instances, you can remain in your home while your roof is replaced. If there are extenuating circumstances that require you to be out of the house for a few days, your roofing company should give you advanced notice so that you can make other arrangements. In most cases, you will be dealing with a lot of noise and a parking inconvenience, but you won’t have to move out.
2 – Clear Timeline
Knowing what stages will the project include and how long the project is going to take, will give you peace of mind even before the roof starts gong up. Your roofing contractor should also be clear about procedures such as:
- At what time you should expect the installers to show up every morning
- What contingency plans are in place in case of inclement weather such as rainy or snowy days
- What happens if the project is not completed at the promised time
There are, of course, delays that are beyond your roofer’s control. Your city will require inspections and permits and your roofing company is often at the mercy of the slow wheels of government. If you’re trying to install a roof during the winter or rainy season, you may have days or weeks of delays built into your roofing project. If you have a reliable roofing company, they should have ready access to materials, reliable, labor, et cetera.
3 – Insurance
Your roofing contractor needs to reassure you that they have the needed insurance should anything go wrong. Since the very definition of the project calls for people working at great heights, there is always the possibility of an accident happening. It’s important at this point for you to find out what kind of insurance your contractor has, whether they carry general liability insurance and protection in case there is any kind of property damage? You may also want to find out if they carry worker’s compensation insurance in case one of the workers suffers an injury while on the job.
If your roofing company is reputable and has been in business for a while, they probably have the required licensing and insurance, but you should inquire. In the state of Washington, roofers are not required to have a specific license (some counties and municipalities may have their own requirements). However, all roofers are required to register with the state’s Department of Labor and Industries Contractors’ Registration Section. If you are concerned about your roofer’S credentials, ask them for referrals or to see pictures of completed jobs.
4 – Warranty
Imagine paying thousands of dollars for a roof and it starts leaking after the first rain or even a year or two down the road. Does your contractor offer a warranty? What does this cover? Your roofing contractor should explain to you what they will cover and what will be covered by the manufacturer of the product that will be installed on your roof. You should expect your warranty to cover defects from installation or materials. If your roof is damaged due to a natural disaster or other events, it may be covered under your homeowners’ insurance policy.
5 – Detailed Estimate
Before the project starts, you should definitely receive a detailed estimate of how much the job is going to cost. You should also be informed on whether the whole amount should be paid upfront, or if you will pay after it’s finished or a combination of both. Ask any questions regarding the cost of the project until you feel satisfied with the answers. Only then should you sign on the dotted line.
Roofing costs can vary widely. The things that affect roofing estimates are the square footage of the roof, the roofing materials, and of course, prices vary by region. When it comes to material, asphalt shingle roofs are an affordable option, but they don’t last as long as pricier materials, like clay-barrel tile, concrete, or metal. You may not have a choice in materials if you live in a uniform housing development, but if you do have the freedom to choose your roofing material, your roofing company should be able to provide the pros and cons of the various materials before giving you an estimate.
With clear estimates for all jobs, professionally designed roofs, and a wide variety of materials that work with every house type and weather, you can be sure you’ll get the roof you envision. When you are ready to have your roof changed and need a detailed estimate, Home Care Contractors is there for you.
