There’s no doubt the investment in a new roof is a big decision. It’s an essential component of your home’s structural integrity. Most of the time, a good roof investment can last you 20 or more years. That’s why it is never ideal to rush into your buying decision. Before you choose a roofing product, there are a few questions to ask your Colorado Springs roofing contractor.
#1: Are You Licensed?
Licensing isn’t an option. It should be something you ask and verify before you sign a contract to work with any roofing contractor. Licensing ensures that the company is recognized by the state. It also ensures that the roofer understands all building codes and can abide by them. Be sure that you ensure the license is up to date. Many times, if you are filing an insurance claim for roof damage, your insurer will require proof of licensing.
Along with this, gather the company’s full, legal name and its business address. Learn more about their operation. In Colorado Springs, where storm damage can be constant and severe, many out-of-state roofers may become available after an event. Yet, you want to choose someone you can track down in the event of a problem later.
#2: What Type of Insurance Do You Have?
Liability insurance helps protect you, as the homeowner. You also want to ensure the company carries full workers’ compensation insurance. This helps protect workers in cases of injury. If a company is uninsured and a worker suffers an injury on your property, you could be financially liable for those injuries. You don’t want this to happen. Ask for proof of insurance.
#3: Who Will Do the Work?
Some companies hire a team and supervise them to get the work done. If subcontracting occurs, you want to know what steps the company takes to ensure the people doing the work for you are skilled and insured. It is best to ensure you know that the employees are background checked, too. If there is any instance in which there are subcontractors used, be sure those companies have proper insurance and licensing as well.
#4: What Type of Warranty Is Available for the Work Done?
Many roofing manufacturers offer warranties. These differ based on product and manufacturer. Look for a roofing company that also provides a warranty for the workmanship they do on the project. You want to know that if there is a problem with the installation, they will handle it. You also want to have confidence that the manufacturer will uphold any warranty. Get documentation for any warranties offered and verify the information.
#5: Will the Old Roof Be Removed?
Re-roofing and roof replacement are two very different things. Some property owners may not realize that there is a difference here. Re-roofing means that the contractor will apply a new layer of roofing over the existing roof. This is done to reduce costs. However, removing the old roof and installing a new one may be best in some situations. It ensures that the roofing contractor deals with any underlying structural problems through a visual inspection of the supportive structure. If the company isn’t going to remove the old roof, find out why and how much of a cost increase this is for you.
#6: What’s Included in the Project?
An initial inspection will provide you with information about the condition of the roof. However, it may not reveal all areas of concern. Once the old roof comes off, that’s when the roofing contractor can talk to you about replacing boards and flashing. Learn what’s included in the existing bid they offer. Does it include a drip edge or edge metal on the roof? Does it include any replacements for flashing? What about the wood and fascia on your roof? If this is not included, and it is isn’t always, find out what those costs may be.
#7: What About the Mess from Roof Removal?
Though this may not seem like a big deal initially, for anyone that has had a roof replaced, it is a concern. When the old roof comes off, the contractor will likely toss material into a dumpster. Find out where they will locate the dumpster and whether the dumpster itself and the disposal fees are included in the bid. Then, find out if they will clean up the yard to remove any nails present. Be sure they will do what they can to avoid damage to your landscaping and grass, too. This is also a good time to talk about how they will access your roof.
#8: What Safety Procedures Are Used?
Roof inspections and repairs consistently put employees at risk. You don’t want an accident occurring at your home. That is why it is so important for you to know what steps they are taking to minimize these risks. Learn about the permits being secured for the project with your city. Find out how many workers will be present, the type of work they will do, and the safety procedures they will use. You can learn more about roofer safety by reading through OSHA guidelines.
#9: What Type of Roofing Materials Are Available?
Many people want to invest in a low-cost roof, but with so many products available today that may not always be the right option. It is best, then, to choose a roofing material that fits your home’s aesthetics, your budget, and the local climate. In Colorado Springs, roofing contractors can offer you a wide range of options including wood, cedar shakes, metal roofing, and much more. You may want to consider traditional asphalt shingles but in a variety of colors and material styles.
#10: When Will the Work Be Done?
Roofing timelines can range based on the house size and the type of material being used. What’s important here is to have a start date. You want to know when the roofing contractor is going to be available to get started. Also, ask for their estimated completion timeline.
The more questions you ask of your Colorado Springs roofing contractor, the more confident you will be in the purchase of your new roof. A reliable, trusted roofer will have no trouble working with you and answering all the questions you ask. They should also provide you with a written estimate that outlines every detail of the project including what the cost is likely to be. If you are unsure of any roofing contractor’s options, look to another provider for a second estimate to gain confidence before you hire.
