Tips for Finding the Right Roofer

Roofing is one of the most expensive projects around the house, so you want to make sure you get a roofing contractor you can trust with the roof over your head.

Most repairs around the house can be put off a few months or more or even patched temporarily. Roof repairs/replacement isn’t a choice; it’s essential. Some DIYers see this as an opportunity to learn something new for themselves. But for most of us, it means hiring a professional. Searching for a roofing contractor is a process. We recommend that you take your time and do your research before signing any contracts.


Roofing ranks among the most expensive projects a homeowner can undertake. Don’t flip through a phone book (or Google) and pick the one that “looks” the best or pick one simply because they’re offering immediate discounts. Your budget is important, but keep in mind, you get what you pay for. Look for a contractor with a good reputation, and who are licensed and insured. You also want to make sure that they have worked on the type of roof that you are looking for. Some contractors predominantly work with shingle roofs so if you are looking for a metal roof, make sure your contractor has the knowledge and experience that it takes and vice versa. Here are some more tips or finding the right roofer.


Referrals

One of the best ways to find a good roofing contractor is through friends and neighbors’ referrals. Did you see a new roof go up in your neighborhood? Try to reach out to those neighbors or friends and ask them some questions. Were they happy with the job? Would they work with that contractor again? Real life testimonials provide the most accurate idea of the experience that you might encounter with a company.


Mid Florida Metal Roofing Supply has a list of recommended contractors for you to contact as well as a list of job referrals for customers to visit; showing the workmanship and style of roofing that was completed by those contractors.


Research

Make a list of 3 – 5 roofers that you believe are qualified and start digging. Start by verifying each one is licensed and insured. Research each company on the Better Business Bureau website to make sure there are no red flags or a large quantity of complaints. Check each company for reviews. This can be done on their Google page, Angie’s List, Facebook page, etc.

Meet Them

Once you feel you have narrowed your list, contact the contractors and have them visit your home to see the job for themselves. Make sure you have a list of questions that you want to ask them. This also gives you a chance to point out possible problem areas, discuss different materials available, timeframe and the extent of the job. Then, observe. How does he/she act? Are they enthusiastic, knowledgeable and professional? Ask them for a list of job references and don’t forget to check them!


Contracts

Get it in writing! Sadly, deals can’t be made with the shake of a hand anymore. Make sure your contract details every aspect of the job; from start to clean up, payment methods and schedule. Work should not begin until you have signed the contract. Double check that any specifications that you spoke with the contractor about are included in the contract. You might also consider a lien waver to protect yourself against any claims that could arise if the roofer fails to pay their vendor for materials.

Warranty

Not all contractors offer extensive warranties. Make sure that you contractor is offering more warranty than the material itself. A good roofing contractor will warranty his workmanship as well. Ask what different warranties they offer.


Cheaper is Not Better

You get what you pay for.


When you receive multiple bids, never go with the cheapest one simply because it is the cheapest. The cheapest might not include clean up, or maybe it’s not the exactly roofing material that you are looking for. You really want to choose a contractor that you trust and gives you the confidence that they can do the job at hand and do it well. If that happens to be the cheapest option, you found a good deal!


Keep in mind, if you are debating between shingle and metal or metal and tile etc. your estimates won’t compare equally when it comes to cost. Factors that should influence this decision are roof material lifespan, eco friendliness, energy savings, warranties, etc. For example, when comparing shingle versus metal; shingle is going to be the cheapest option up front. However, the lifespan of a shingle roof is only 10 – 15 years and metal roofs have a lifespan of over 40 – 50 years. So, the initial cost is going to be more, however it pays for itself over time.


Contact your Mid Florida Metal Roofing Sales Representative for our list of preferred contractors.


Mid Florida Metal Roofing Supply now offers financing! Click here to learn more!

About Mid-Florida Metal Roofing

Mid-Florida Metal Roofing Supply has been in the business for 13 years. MFMRS manufactures a wide variety of metal roofing products including Multi-Rib (AG), PBR/R, 5V and Standing Seam in a Galvalume mill finish, as well as, a wide variety of colors to meet all your preferences.


We also manufacture an extensive list of flashing profiles to meet any standard or custom application as needed. We specialize in custom profiles serving a wide variety of needs in the construction industry. Our profiles can also be ordered in custom lengths up to 21ft.


We are committed to producing quality products in a timely manner and pride ourselves with friendly personal customer service.

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