How to Tell if a Roofing Contractor is Qualified

Choosing the right roofing contractor for your home or business can be a daunting task. There are so many different factors involved, including pricing, warranty coverage, and even the company’s license. This blog post will help you decide whether or not a contractor is qualified to work on your roofing project by helping you identify some of the common warning signs before signing any contracts.

A qualified roofing contractor will have insurance that covers both personal injury and property damage. Ask to see a copy of the policy so you can be sure that you’re protected in case of an accident.

If the contractor doesn’t have insurance or refuses to show you proof that they are fully licensed, it’s best to move on and find someone else who is more qualified. Accidents happen, and insurance coverage is crucial to put your mind at ease and keep you protected.

A limited warranty, which may include workmanship protection, should be provided by your roofing contractor.

Beyond just offering a warranty, roofing contractors should be able to explain what the warranty means in a way that you can understand. Professional contractors will be willing to answer any questions you may have regarding your new roof.

Roofing contractors may offer a standard type of roof, while others are more experienced with unique types of shingle or metal roofs. Be sure to ask about the materials that will be used on your new roof so you can know what to expect in terms of maintenance and appearance down the road.

It’s also important to note that quality matters. Not all roofing materials are the same. Potential contractors that you are vetting should be able to tell you what type of roofing materials their business uses and materials should be of reputable brands and of high quality.

A qualified roofing contractor should be able to provide you with a written estimate that includes an accurate description of the work to be performed, whether you are hiring them for roof repairs or a total roofing replacement.

This is where many independent roofing contractors take shortcuts. A certified roofing contractor or roofing company should know and comply with all local building codes.

Roofing companies should have a list of satisfied customers and be willing to share these references with potential customers. If they are unwilling to do so, it may mean they haven’t had any successful roofing projects or that their customer satisfaction level is low.

In addition to checking for storm damage, your roofing contractor should perform a thorough inspection of the entire roofing system, including the deck, attic, flashing, chimney, soil stacks, and other roof penetrations.

A new roofing system is more than just the shingles. Your roofing contractor should check the existing attic ventilation. Certified roofing contractors should be able to determine if the current ventilation system is working properly. Improper ventilation can damage your shingles and can actually invalidate your manufacturer’s warranty, so it’s important that roofing contractors have hands-on experience with ventilation.

Your roofing contractor will install either a synthetic or felt underlayment as the first layer of protection on your roof deck. If you’re looking for advanced protection against leaks, water absorption, and mold then you’ll want to make sure your contractor will use a synthetic product rather than felt.

Certified roofing contractors should be able to tell you whether they follow the manufacturer’s specifications. Your roofer shouldn’t try and cut corners by using less expensive products or materials, such as shingles that are of a lower grade than is recommended in your area. Professional roofers use only top-quality materials and installment techniques specified by the material manufacturers.

A certified roofing company or contractor should meet appropriate licensing requirements. Roofers should be licensed, insured, and carry appropriate certifications. Did they go through their state licensing board for their business license? Are they a member of a national association that represents their industry knowledge and expertise? Are they a member of the better business bureau which shows a strong commitment to customer satisfaction? All of these are great questions to ask before hiring a roofer.

Crossover Roofing is a full-service roofing contractor that specializes in both commercial and residential roofing. We are licensed, insured, and our team of certified professionals can help you with your residential or commercial project. When you need the job done right, hire the professionals at Crossover Roofing. Contact us for a free estimate today.