March 28, 2024
As a homeowner, you probably dread the day you’ll find water stains on the ceiling, shingles in the yard, or critters in the attic. These are clear signs your roof needs help.
Even the sturdiest roof can malfunction over time. And when it does, you’ll want to have a reliable roofing contractor on your radar.
Your roof is more than just asphalt shingles and nails- it’s what keeps you and your loved ones safe from the elements. Hiring a trustworthy roofing contractor ensures your roof is repaired, maintained, or replaced correctly, on time, and within budget.
But given the number of roofing companies out there, how do you find someone who meets your expectations?
Don’t worry- your go-to Reno roofing contractors are here to give you the advice you need. Let’s talk about how to find a reliable roofer in your area.
It’s worth mentioning that not all contractors are made the same. The best ones have a few essential qualities that set them apart.
Licensing and insurance are non-negotiable when hiring a roofing contractor. A valid license confirms the contractor meets local standards and knows the ropes of building codes and construction. This, in turn, minimizes the risk of shoddy work.
When it comes to insurance, there are two types every roofing contractor should carry: liability and worker’s compensation.
Liability insurance covers any damage to your property caused by the contractor during the repair process. For instance, if a roofing company accidentally damages another part of your home, you won’t be left covering the costs.
Worker’s compensation, on the other hand, protects you from being liable if a contractor’s employee gets injured while working on your property. Without this insurance, you could be on the hook for medical bills and lost wages.
Before hiring a Reno roofing company, ask for proof of both licensing and insurance. Don’t just take their word for it; request to see the actual documents and verify them with the issuing authorities.
You can also look up a residential roofing company’s license through the National Roofing Contractor Association. Or call your local city building department to see if the contractor has a license in your area.
Different roofs need different skills. What works for shingles might not work for tiles. That’s why you need a seasoned contractor who’s familiar with your specific roof type.
An experienced roofing contractor will quickly identify problems, know which materials work best, and handle repairs smoothly. Because they’ve dealt with a wide range of roofing issues, they’ll know how to avoid rookie mistakes.
Consider digging into a contractor’s past work and talking to previous clients to learn more about them. Past projects can show you their skill level, while references provide firsthand insights into the contractor’s reliability, communication, and professionalism.
Asking for a portfolio and references isn’t nosy- it’s smart. The right roofing contractor will be happy to show off their work and the good relationships they’ve built with clients.
Did you know 75% of consumers’ always’ or ‘regularly’ read online reviews before deciding on a business? That’s a big number!
Online reviews (or just word-of-mouth in general) can tell you a lot about the roofing company’s reputation. Positive track records don’t happen by accident; they’re earned through hard work, excellent service, and a commitment to customer satisfaction.
Check out websites, social media, and forums for reviews on the contractor’s services. Look for patterns. A single bad review in a sea of praise might be an outlier, but if complaints are a trend, consider it a red flag.
Don’t just stop at reviews. Referrals from people you trust can be just as revealing, if not more. Ask friends and family if they’ve had these roofing services recently and how it went.
Ideally, you should seek quotes from multiple roofers in Reno, NV. Most reputable contractors will offer clear estimates, itemizing materials, labor, and permits. They’ll let you see where your money is going, so you know you’re getting a fair deal.
In this regard, watch out for estimates that seem too good to be true, because they probably are. Unrealistically low prices on roofing services can mean low-quality materials or poor workmanship.
Hidden fees are another no-go. Everything should be on the table from the start. If the estimate is vague or mentions the potential for additional charges, ask for clarification. You want a quote that’s as close to the final price as possible, with any potential extras explained upfront.
Clear communication sets the tone for a smooth project. Your roofing contractor should be upfront about the steps to roofing, expectations, timeline, and any potential hiccups. This open line of communication ensures you’re never in the dark about what’s happening with your roof. Regular updates should be the norm, not the exception.
A responsive contractor is worth their weight in gold. You want someone who promptly addresses your questions and concerns. Quick, clear responses indicate they value your satisfaction and are committed to the project’s success. If your roofing services company is hard to reach or dismissive of your concerns, you should see it as a warning sign.
Great customer service can manifest in many ways. For example, your roofing contractors might:
It’s best to have multiple conversations with roofing contractors before you sign the contract. Use these meetings to ask questions, express concerns, and get a feel for the roofing services company’s communication and service style.
Now that you know what makes a roofing project contractor, let’s explore a few additional factors to keep in mind.
When it comes to roofing, the devil is in the details of warranties and guarantees. It’s important to understand what’s covered- and what isn’t.
A comprehensive warranty should include both materials and workmanship. Materials warranties are typically provided by the manufacturer, but you’ll want your contractor to back their work too.
This means if something goes wrong because of how the roof replacement or roof repair was done, they’ll fix it at no extra cost to you. Always read the fine print and ask questions to clarify the duration of the warranty.
Safety should never be an afterthought. Professional roofing contractors will prioritize safety protocols and ensure their team is properly trained for the job. You can ask about their safety practices, such as their approach to preventing falls, managing equipment, and any safety certifications they hold.
Roofing companies that take safety seriously demonstrate a level of care and respect for their team and your property. It signals their professionalism in the roofing industry and commitment to their craft.
There you have it- a quick guide on how to choose a roofing contractor. Remember, the best time to hire a roofer is before you need one. Planning allows you to research, compare, and select a contractor under less pressure.
Need a roof repair, or are you thinking about an upgrade of your entire roof? Mountain Vista Roofing has got you covered. Trust us to keep your roof strong and your home safe, season after season. Call now to schedule a consultation.
