Hiring a roofing contractor to work on your home can be intimidating at first. That said, it's important to ensure you hire the right person for the job, as these projects are a big expense and a major long-term investment in your property. Knowing what questions to ask can help you make the right choice. Keep these questions in mind before signing a contract with any roofer.

1. How Long Have You Been in Business?

As you may already know, experience is critical with something as major as a home improvement project. A reliable and experienced roofer is one who has been in business for a while and can provide you with references from previous satisfied clients. Knowing how long a roofer has been in business can help you make an informed decision about hiring them. Be sure to check online for reviews, as these can provide insight into what it's like to work with a specific company.

2. Are You Licensed and Insured?

It's important to check that any roofer you hire is licensed and insured. An unlicensed or uninsured roofer may end up proving to be a liability on the job. You don't want any contractor on your property who isn't covered by insurance. Their license, on the other hand, can provide you with the reassurance that they work in accordance with the proper roofing authorities in your area. A reputable roofer should be able to provide you with proof of their licensing and insurance, so make sure to ask for these documents before signing a contract.

3. Do You Have Any Special Training?

Professional roofers should have professional training as well as certification from organizations such as the National Roofing Contractors Association. Having special training and certifications helps ensure that your contractor is qualified to do the job correctly. It also helps protect you from any potential issues that may arise. Depending on the services the company provides, this special training may include metal or slate installation. Your contractor will likely have some form of training certification to prove their expertise.

4. What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer?

A reputable contractor should be able to provide you with a comprehensive warranty that covers any repairs or replacements needed in the future. Additionally, when it comes to roofing materials such as asphalt shingles and metal sheets, many manufacturers have warranties that cover defects in material for a certain length of time. Ask your roofer if they honor manufacturer warranties.

5. What Materials Do You Use?

The materials used for a roofing project are vital to the job. Not only does it affect the durability of your home but it also affects the cost of the job. Ask your roofer what type of materials they plan to use and how long those materials are expected to last. An experienced roofer should be able to explain why they chose particular materials as well as how long you can expect that material to last based on its expected lifespan.

6. How Long Will the Project Take?

The time it takes to complete a roofing project will depend on its size, complexity, and external factors such as the weather. Before committing to hiring any roofer, ask them how long they expect the job to take. You may get varying estimates from different contractors, but don't always go with the fastest option. You should make sure to take into account reliability and whether the company is known for sticking to its estimates.

7. What Will It Cost?

The cost of a roofing project can vary depending on many factors, including the size of the roof and the type of materials used. According to the Roofer’s Guild, the average residential roof in the U.S. is 1,600 square feet. How does yours compare? Ask your roofer for a detailed list of costs associated with the project once they provide an estimate. Also, make sure to get everything in writing before signing a contract.

8. How Do You Handle Disputes?

As with all projects, it's possible that you or your roofer may not be completely satisfied with the results. Ask your roofer how they handle disputes so you know what to do if it becomes necessary. A reputable roofer should have clear policies and procedures in place for resolving disputes, so make sure to ask about this before signing any contracts.

Asking the right questions when hiring a roofer is essential to ensure that you get quality workmanship. Knowing the key questions to ask your roofer can help make your decision-making process easier. Are you in need of a reliable roofer? Contact our team at Four Leaf Roofing & Windows today. We'd love to be of assistance.