It can be frustrating to find someone to do work on your roof. There are many roofing contractors to choose from, most of which will tell you that they can do the work. However, the real challenge is selecting a contractor that can do it well and that will stand behind their work.
It is always easier to do your homework before you need a new roof, especially if your old one has started leaking, you have shingles damaged in a storm, or you are considering a new roof installation for your home. All homeowners can avoid many of the pitfalls associated with roofing if they ask a few key questions and learn how to identify a good company to work with from the beginning.
Start by Asking for Referrals
Finding someone to do roofing work is often as easy as asking your friends, neighbors, coworkers, or family members for referrals.
Anyone who has hired a roofing contractor is likely to give you some insight that you will not get by reading an advertisement. You can ask whether the crew arrived as scheduled and whether they completed the work properly. Did anything come up after the job was done? A referral will not tell you for certain whether the company you contact will do quality work, but it is a good starting point.
Research Local Roofing Contractors
Once you have a few names, do some further research. Seek out companies that work in Bloomington and the nearby areas.
A local company may be more familiar with weather conditions and types of roofs common in your area. You can check the company’s website to see how long they have been in business and whether they offer the type of roof work you need.
If you are searching for best roofing companies Bloomington IL online, take your time to evaluate different companies. Do not just settle for the first company you come across.
Read Customer Reviews with Caution
Customer reviews can provide information, but they should be one part of your investigation. Pay attention to any negative reviews you come across and look at how the company responds.
You want reviews from real customers. Check whether they mention how communicative the company was, whether the crew was respectful, and if they cleaned up after themselves.
Did they stick to the estimate?
Did they finish on time?
Did the final bill match the estimate?
Consider not only whether all reviews are 5-stars, but how complaints were dealt with.
Verify They Are Insured
Never be afraid to ask for proof of insurance before you hire any contractor. Roofs are worked on at significant heights, and there is always a risk of injury or property damage.
You can check with the company and may also want to know if they use their own crews or hire subcontractors.
Obtain Multiple Estimates
Pricing can be difficult to assess without pricing out jobs with similar scope. Do not only pick the lowest price, but compare the bid with two or three other estimates.
Look at exactly what each contractor is including. One contractor’s quote for installing a new roof may also include flashing repairs, while for another that is listed separately. See what each estimate covers so you will not be comparing apples to oranges.
Ask About the Roof Work
Make sure you understand what will be done to install your new roof. Find out how long it will take, whether the old roof will be replaced, and how vents or flashing will be handled. Read the estimate and ask questions so you know what will be done.
Do not feel uncomfortable if a contractor speaks over your head or asks you to sign something that day. You need to have all the information before you commit.
Read the Contract
Read each estimate thoroughly before you sign. It should clearly list everything you can expect, from start date to finish date. It should list the scope of work, material specifications, total cost, and scheduled payments.
Ask whether they guarantee the work, and what the guarantee covers. Find out if the materials come with a manufacturer warranty, and whether the company will warranty their work separately.
Listen to How They Treat You
The first time you meet with a roofing contractor, you can learn quite a bit.
Are they prompt and polite?
Do they listen to your concerns?
Can they explain what they see in terms you understand, instead of just throwing around technical jargon?
If a contractor is combative or impatient, it is a good sign that they will not be good to work with.
Take Your Time Choosing a Contractor
There is no need to sign anything the day you receive an estimate or a referral. You should take the time to get to know the contractors that you are considering working with before you sign anything and before work begins.
Talk to each one, compare the estimates, check references or reviews, and ask questions about how the work will be completed. Do not let anyone pressure you into making a decision the same day you meet them. Take your time and be cautious. A good roofing company will be glad to offer you information at your pace.
