Although, generally, a great roofing is able to maintain its look and efficacy between 10 years, it does fade out later on. In some cases, you will see bubbles on top, warps, and cracks. And if you don’t mind, the cracks and breaks will lead to leakage, which can cost more to repair. Of course, the level of repair needed depends on the type of damage. If the damage is too bad that it is not feasible to improve or refurbish, then you’d need to buy a whole new roofing.
That being said, it is very important to ask help from the expert roofers around your area. But how do you know they are the best fit for you?
Here are the main qualities or factors to check.
1. Licensed
If you want to guarantee a high level of professionalism, demand an RBC (residential building contractor) license from your provider. This is a basic requirement for businesses who directly transact building construction services with homeowners.
Most home improvement businesses already have this, but there are those who specialize in roofing only and such is declared in their permits as a special skill area. If there are other expanses that you will be renovating in the future, consider an all-around licensed supplier.
2. Insured
All concepts about insurance are the same – it is a guaranteed compensation for loss, damage, or any untoward and unplanned events in exchange of a premium that you pay. Some suppliers offer promotional offers like free insurance if you pay the contract in lump sum.
When talking about insurance, make sure you ask about who the insurer is and also do a research on this company’s reputation and background. Usually, the contract is a package deal (meaning it comes with the policy) but if you’re doubtful about it, ask about how you can go and look for your own insurer.
Also read about the coverage and be attentive to details. One common problem is when the policy does not say that they will exactly match your original materials in case you make a claim. Or, if there is a hole somewhere, will they repair it? They are obligated to restore the property to its original state before the damage.
3. Expert Workers
If there is a policy about KYC or know your customer, then it is equally important to know your contractor! Although the firm they represent is licensed, they also have to be individually certified to do construction jobs.
Most companies would not mind showing prospective clients the profiles of their employees to showcase their experiences and projects that they have worked on in the past.
If there’s an opportunity for you to get to talk to the workers personally, then take that chance so that you can personally tell them your preferences and they can, likewise, inform you how they operate.
4. Customer Rating
Testimonial articles are reliable sources of information too, as long as these write-ups are legitimate. Do not only read testimonials on the company’s website because there’s a chance these are solicited or paid advertisements.
Look for blogs and forums that tackle renovations, repair, and anything related to house assembly or remodeling, so you can find that perfect roofing company.
5. BBB Accreditation
BBB stands for Better Business Bureau.
This accreditation committee ensures that companies meet standards that enable the business owners to resolve customer complaints and after sales requests.
Businesses pay fees for BBB to constantly and consistently monitor and call out non-compliance to policies and guidelines. This official approval from the BBB is not mandatory but will come in handy in case the finished product does not meet the consumers’ standards or if there are conflicts after the work has been completed.
6. GAF Certification
GAF stands for General Aniline & Film.
It is the biggest manufacturer of construction supplies in Northern America. It used to be focused on manufacturing roofing goods for residences and commercial establishments, but now it has also ventured into other home improvement industries.
Having a contractor who is GAF certified guarantees that the provisions used for your house are of high-quality, durable, and have passed compliance and quality tests.
7. Free Estimate
Who doesn’t want freebies? We all do, quotations included! We, as consumers, need to know the scope of work needed to accomplish our requirements, along with the costs associated with it.
This most importantly helps us keep our expenses within the budget we set and we can also use these quotations to compare contract prices and potentially negotiate or haggle deals with different companies.
Included in the free estimate, aside from scope of work, is the BOM or bill of materials, plus other incidental costs on permits, draft approvals, and the likes.
8. Years in Business
Experience is the best teacher and if you want to get your money’s worth, go sign a contract with the provider with the most exposure to this craft.
Aside from different scenarios they might have encountered before, their knowledge and confidence on the subject matter gives you much relief that your roofing will not be experimental nor a practice session.