10 Important Questions to Ask a Potential Roofing Contractor Before Hiring Them

The decision has been made – it’s time to replace your home’s roof. You’ve done your research and gathered a list of potential roofing contractors, and now you’re left with more questions than answers.

What’s the next step? How do you differentiate between these roofing companies and choose one that benefits your wallet and your home’s integrity in the long run?

One way to navigate choosing a contractor is to remind yourself that you are not the professional in this situation – they are. Things can undoubtedly feel unfamiliar and daunting whenever renovations are done to our homes. It’s important to remember that you are allowed to ask as many questions as needed.

Becoming confident in the roof replacement process and the contractor you choose to work with will help assure that your hard-earned money is wisely invested and that you are ultimately getting both quality and protection for your home for many years.

So, how can you choose a roofing contractor with peace of mind? Armed with the right questions to ask is a great place to start. Not only will you get a feel for their customer service, but you’ll also really get to know how they operate, how they will take care of your home, their experience level, and the options they can provide.

1) Will you be removing my old roofing shingles?

This question is crucial. If the answer is “no,” you should likely walk away. Laying new shingles on top of old ones is common for inexperienced contractors to cut corners and save time. If your shingles are not removed, there’s no opportunity to examine the sheathing area underneath your roof, leaving it vulnerable to problems. Inspecting what’s happening underneath your roof can save you thousands of repairs. A reputable Victoria BC roofer will permanently remove all current shingles before laying down new ones.

2) What is your company’s full legal name and physical address, and do you have a license?

Knowing this information helps determine the legitimacy of the roofing contractor you are considering. You may want to steer clear if they do not have a physical address or hesitate to give out this essential information. It’s also worth checking their license to ensure it is up to date-and free of violations.

3) What material are your shingles made from?

While many different shingle materials are on the market, consider leaning toward contractors that install asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles are among the most common and offer numerous benefits, including being wind-resistant, affordable, algae-prohibiting, and sound-mitigating to ensure your home stays as comfortable and cozy as possible.

4) How many nails do you use per shingle?

To ensure that your new shingles stay properly intact, a roofer should use a minimum of four nails per shingle for a standard roofing job. In some cases, such as with steep-sloped roofs, six or more nails may be needed. As a general rule, anything above four nails per shingle is a good indication of quality artistry.

5) How will the shingles be cut?

Consider walking away if the contractor mentions using the “eyeball” method for cutting shingles. Shingles should never be cut using this method. Instead, they should be cut on a straight edge using a hook or straight blade to protect the integrity of the shingles and ensure no aesthetic or other visual issues.

6) What can I expect from the roof replacement process?

Knowing what you are getting into regarding your roof replacement project is essential. From start to finish, a roof replacement should take a maximum of a few days, weather permitting. Ask about scheduling and flexibility to ensure the timing works for all parties involved. Please pay attention to whether they will remove old shingles, do a thorough inspection, dispose of garbage, and advise on preparing your home for the installation. Choose a contractor who ensures your property is kept clean and protected.

7) Are you insured?

Reputable roofing contractors should always have insurance to protect themselves and you as the homeowner in case of any accidents. Be wary of a low project quote, as contractors without insurance can offer lower costs, but the risk to you is much higher. If you hire an uninsured contractor, any costs associated with potential injury may fall on you. It’s best to steer clear of uninsured contractors.

8) Do you perform the work yourselves, or do you employ subcontractors?

This question clarifies who will be working on your home. Does the contractor use their in-house employees, or do they use subcontractors? If subcontractors are involved, ensure you ask about their insurance coverage as well.

9) Do you have any references or reviews?

Be bold and ask for references from previous homeowners who have worked with the contractor. If they cannot provide personal references due to homeowner privacy, ask where their reviews are housed online. Reviews and references can offer valuable insight into the contractor’s reliability and quality of work.

10) Do you offer a warranty, and what kind of warranty do you offer?

Good roofing companies should offer warranties on any completed roofing projects. However, warranties can differ vastly from contractor to contractor. Ensure the company’s warranty fits your needs. Ask what is included – does it cover materials, labor, or both? Understanding the warranty’s coverage is crucial for your peace of mind and long-term investment.

Choosing a roofing contractor can feel overwhelming, but asking the right questions will help you make an informed decision. By ensuring your contractor is experienced, insured, and reputable, you can protect your investment and ensure your home’s roof is both durable and reliable for years to come.