A house without a roof is just a set of walls, and a roof is often one of those things that people take for granted – until it malfunctions. A solid and reliable roof is worth its weight in gold, so when the time for repairs or even replacement comes around, you want a roofing contractor that knows what they’re doing, to avoid wasting your time and your money. But where do you find such an elusive unicorn of a service provider?
Most people decide whose services they are going to use based on the figures. A quote that comes in too high is more likely to be ignored, but the opposite is an equal risk – a quote in which the contractor doesn’t charge enough can come with additional complications, like poor workmanship and in the worst-case scenario, dishonest dealings. This is why checking references at every point of the selection process is vital.
Carefully weigh up all the options once you reach a shortlist of local roofing contractors, and remember to also check the company’s social media pages for reviews and feedback from former clients – this is one of the easiest ways to get real-life references and check the veracity of the service provider’s claims.
I would like to find a roofing contractor near me
Finding a reputable roofing contractor near you is almost like employing someone, so in your selection process, you need to ensure that you ask the right questions to help narrow down your options. The first step is to determine the condition of your roof. The average roof’s lifespan is anywhere between 20 and 30 years, so a professional assessment of the crucial components’ wear and tear is generally considered the best place to start. Some signs could give you a clue that it’s time to call in the professionals.
What are the warning signs?
Loose or missing shingles, any leaks in the roof (and any stains or marks that may have formed as a result), as well as swollen roof components or any areas that appear dented or about to collapse are all cause for concern. If these symptoms persist even after work was done, the blame lies with the team who did the work.
How do I choose the best roofing contractor near me?
Local businesses depend on their communities for patronage, but if you are not 100% comfortable with the services on offer, there is nothing wrong with looking for help that is not as local as you might have hoped. Choosing local for the sake of local, without doing your homework, leaves you at risk of ending up with a nearby roofing contractor who doesn’t have to travel far, but whose work might leave much to be desired. Also take care if you are looking to replace your roof after natural disasters, like storms or tornadoes – this is the traditional time for disreputable companies (and even fraudsters!) to appear, where they either undercut the prices of regular contractors, or simply disappear with your money after no service has been delivered.
When you choose a roofing contractor, take note of what guarantees and warranties they offer – you’ll thank yourself later.
What is the most advisable roofing type?
The answer to this question lies in what your requirements are, and you need to factor in several factors, like your local climate and likely weather conditions, your budget and personal preference into consideration. Asphalt shingles or metal are the most popular choices for the construction of modern roofs, and each type has its own set of positives and negatives, based on individual circumstances. Many people go for metal roofing for the aesthetics it provides, but you need to bring everything into consideration before making your final choice.
Should I repair or replace a leaky roof?
Again, the “real” answer will be addressed only if you look at the full picture, such as what type of leak it is, what caused it, how big it is, and how much damage of what kind it caused. Your best bet would be to consult a professional to do an assessment, but the overall condition of the roof and its supporting hardware will greatly determine the need for replacing vs repairing.
How many years can I expect to get out of my roof?
While your prevalent local weather conditions, as well as the amount of maintenance you put in over time will change the answer, asphalt shingles are expected to last for approximately 20to 30 years. If your roof is nearing this part of its lifespan, you might want to start looking for a roofing companies near your area to give you some competitive quotes. Perhaps you get a pleasant surprise and find out that your roof is still in good condition, but rather be ahead of the curve and avoid guesswork in the later years of your roof’s expected lifespan.
Metal roofs can last up to 70 years if properly maintained. It may be a more pricey option, but what you pay for upfront will be made up over time in longevity.
Although it is a big job, the good news is that it doesn’t take as long to replace a roof as you might imagine. Of course, building size and structure will affect this calculation, but an average-sized home can be reroofed within a day, with the help of a good contractor. Larger buildings, like those for commercial applications will, by their very nature, take longer.
Am I seeing things, or are the shingles on my roof changing color?
Mold, algae, fungal growth and other invasive guests love shingles, especially in a humid climate, and this can play a large role in the discoloration of this material. You need to address them as soon as you become aware of them, to prevent further issues or damage later on. If the job is too big to handle, call in a pro to halt the damage in its tracks.
Is a new roof going to bankrupt me?
The size of the roof, the material you choose and other factors will modify this answer. Chat to your local roofing contractor about getting a quote that best addresses your needs.