Are you in need of a new roof? Whether you’re looking to have your home’s roof replaced or repaired, choosing a reliable residential roofing company is essential.
Your roof is the first line of defense against climatic elements, keeping you and your loved ones safe. Whether your home is in dire need of a new roof or you are just considering the possibility, it’s important to do your research before making any decisions.
But with over 81,679 residential roofing companies in the U.S., most of them claiming to be the best, how can you be sure that you’re picking the right one? Here are seven tips for choosing a reliable residential roofing company:
1. Ask for Referrals
Get referrals from friends, family, and neighbors who have had recent roofing work done. A referral means that someone you know and trust has already vetted the company and found them to be trustworthy. And chances are they will have something to say about their experience.
If they had a great experience with their roofers, you’re likely to have one too. You can save yourself a lot of time and hassle by getting referrals.
However, you shouldn’t skip your due diligence process. You should still vet the company to find out if they’re a good fit for you.
2. Check Out the Company’s Website
A company’s website can tell you a lot about its business. Go through their site and see if they have any online reviews. Reading online reviews is a great way to get an idea of what other customers have experienced with a company.
Be sure to read both the good and bad reviews to get a well-rounded idea. Never discount a roofing company because they have one or a few negative reviews. Even the best companies will have a few unhappy customers.
What you should be looking for are patterns of behavior. If you see a pattern of unhappy customers, that’s a red flag. But a few negative reviews here and there are to be expected.
When reading the reviews, ensure you check for those that mention the company’s level of reliability, customer service, experience, and service quality.
You should also check to see if they’re a member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB). If the company is a member of the BBB and with an A+rating, that’s a good sign.
3. Bonded, Licensed and Insured
When hiring a roofing company, always ask if they are bonded, licensed, and insured. This protects you in case something goes wrong during the roofing process.
A bond is a type of insurance that protects you if the roofing company doesn’t finish the job or if they do subpar work.
A license shows that the roofing company adheres to local building codes and regulations. And finally, insurance protects you in case of an accident or injury during the roofing process.
4. Financing
If you’re unable to pay for the roofing project upfront, ask the roofing company about their financing options. Many roofing companies offer financing so that you can pay for the project over time.
This is an important consideration, as a new roof is a significant investment. You want to be sure that you can afford the payments over time without putting too much strain on your finances.
5. Get a Written Estimate
When you contact a roofing company for roof repair or maintenance, they should be able to provide you with a written estimate outlining the cost of materials and labor. The estimate should also include a timeline for the completion of the roofing project.
Be sure to get at least three estimates from different roofing companies before making a final decision. A written estimate helps you compare roofing companies more easily and makes it less likely that you will be taken advantage of down the road.
When comparing prices, ensure you are comparing apples to apples. Some roofing companies may cut corners by using lower-quality materials in order to save money. This could end up costing you more in the long run.
So, asking the right questions up front can help you avoid any surprises down the road.
6. Consider Your Roofing Options
There are a variety of roofing materials available on the market today. And each has its own set of benefits and drawbacks.
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material. However, they’re not necessarily the best option for every home. That’s because they have a shorter lifespan than other roofing materials.
Metal roofing is another great roofing option that’s gaining popularity. These roofs are durable and can last for decades. But they’re also more expensive than asphalt shingles.
Consider your budget and the climate in your area when choosing a roofing material. Additionally, talk to a few roofing companies to get their recommendations for your home. They’ll be able to help you weigh the pros and cons of each roofing material and help you choose the best option for your budget.
7. Certification
Certification shows that the company has been vetted by a third-party organization and that they meet certain standards.
There are a few different organizations that certify roofing companies. These include the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and the Roofing Contractors Association of America (RCAA).
Make sure to check that the roofing company you’re considering is certified by one of these organizations. This gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re working with a reputable and reliable company.
Work With a Reputable Residential Roofing Company Today
Your roof is a significant investment, so you want to be sure you work with a reputable residential roofing company. By following these tips, you can be sure you’re getting the best possible service for your money.
If you need a residential roofing company for roof replacement or repair, we hope you’ll consider us here at Point Roofing Restoration. We’re always here to help our customers, no matter the problem. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
