A new roof is an investment you may make only a few times in your life. So when the time comes, it helps to pose similar questions to any roofing contractors you decide to contact about the job.
QUESTION 1
What type of roofing do you normally install?
Some roofers install only asphalt roofing, while others may specialize in metal or another type. You’ll fare best with a roofer who is experienced installing the type of roofing you intend to purchase (if you’ve made that decision), or someone who can help you examine your options if you haven’t.
QUESTION 2
Can you provide references of nearby homes where you’ve installed roofing?
Make sure you call some of the references and ask whether the homeowners have had any problems with the roof since it was installed. Drive by the home to verify the quality of the workmanship first hand.
QUESTION 3
What should be changed about my attic ventilation?
Re-roofing presents an ideal opportunity to assess your attic ventilation. Ventilation can help make sure the attic space is not substantially overheating in summer, or suffering condensation in winter. You can ask a roofer or an HVAC contractor for an assessment of your airflow to determine whether ridge vents or soffit vents could help circulate air through the attic space.
QUESTION 4
What accessories do you use?
Take this opportunity to learn more about roofing components like drip edge, valleys, and chimney flashing. Drip edge, a small piece of metal placed under the shingle where it comes off of the roof, allows runoff to flow into the gutters, protecting the fascia and wood on your roof. Asking about drip edge will help ensure that this part of the roofing system is not skipped. We’re so passionate about accessories that we’ve even created a short animation on the importance of drip edge. You’ll also find that replacing components like valley and eaves flashing is cheapest and easiest when re-roofing.
QUESTION 5
Will the installers on my job be subcontractors or employees?
Either subcontractors or employees could be well qualified to perform the labor. However, it’s important to know whether the installers are classed as employees or subcontractors. Depending on your state’s laws, you may need to make sure that any subcontractors are also insured in order to protect yourself.
QUESTION 6
Do you have insurance?
You’ll want to make sure your roofing contractor carries commercial liability insurance against bodily injury and property damage sufficient to cover any work related damages. They also need to provide worker’s compensation coverage for job related injuries and health risks. Don’t hesitate to ask for proof of this insurance, or even to call the insurance company to make sure their policy is in good standing. In addition, some states or cities may require that your contractor should be currently licensed to install roofing.
When you think you’ve found a roofer for your project, be sure to ask them about any manufacturer qualifications they hold (like Quality Edge’s Integra program). Also ask for specification sheets and warranties for the roofing products you’ll use. A few simple questions like these will help you protect yourself and your home when your new roof is installed.
