It’s important to get a few different quotes from South Shore roofing contractors before committing to one, but not every conversation has to begin with an in-person visit. You can usually learn a lot about a roofing company with one phone call.
Save yourself some time by pre-screening a few roofers over the phone before scheduling estimates. Skipping the research stage of your roofing project can lead to problems later. Taking a few minutes to ask the right questions can help you narrow your choices and find a professional roofing contractor you feel comfortable working with.
Credibility
The first thing you should determine is whether the roofing contractor is credible and established. Pricing doesn’t matter just yet. Start by asking questions such as:
- What is your legal business name?
- What is your business address?
- Are you licensed and insured?
- How long have you been in business?
- How many locations do you have?
- Do you have awards, testimonials, or professional credentials?
- Can you provide references?
Be sure to read the roofing company’s customer reviews as well. When speaking with a roofer, pay attention to vague or unclear answers. A professional contractor should be comfortable answering basic questions about the company, its experience, insurance, and roofing services.
Pricing and Roofing Estimates
Be cautious of any roofer who gives you a firm price without seeing your home. Roof size, pitch, materials, accessibility, existing roofing layers, and the condition of the roof decking can all affect the final cost.
Be sure to ask:
- Do you offer free roofing estimates?
- What factors affect the final price?
- What does the estimate include?
- How are unexpected repairs, such as damaged decking, handled?
- Do you offer roofing materials at different price points?
When comparing roofing quotes, look carefully at what each contractor includes rather than focusing only on the lowest price. Two estimates that appear similar at first may include very different materials, warranties, preparation, cleanup, ventilation work, or repairs.
Reputation and Professionalism
A roofing company may appear credible on paper, but you should also consider how professionally the company approaches your project. The estimate and inspection process can tell you a lot about what you can expect if you hire that contractor.
Here are a few additional questions worth asking:
Can You Just Leave the Roof Estimate in My Mailbox?
A roofing estimate should provide enough detail for you to understand the proposed work, materials, and costs. Having an opportunity to discuss the estimate with the contractor also allows you to ask questions and learn about the roofing materials available to you.
Depending on the home and the condition of the roof, a thorough inspection may also include looking inside the attic for signs of leaks, moisture, inadequate ventilation, or other roofing-related concerns.
What Is Your Price Per Square Foot?
There usually isn’t a single price-per-square-foot figure that accurately applies to every roof. Several factors can affect roofing costs, including the current cost of materials, roof size and pitch, decking condition, number of existing roofing layers, accessibility, ventilation requirements, and any known damage.
A reputable roofing contractor should be able to explain what factors are being considered when preparing your estimate.
Can You Install New Shingles Over My Existing Roof?
Installing new shingles over an existing layer is sometimes referred to as a roof overlay or layover. While this may be possible in certain situations, it isn't automatically the best choice for every home.
An overlay can make it more difficult to identify problems beneath the existing roofing material, including damaged decking or other underlying issues. Before choosing this option simply to reduce upfront costs, ask the contractor to explain whether it is appropriate for your particular roof and what the potential disadvantages may be.
Do You Need to Inspect the Attic?
Depending on the roof and the reason for the inspection, a contractor may want access to the attic. An attic inspection can help identify evidence of water intrusion, damaged roof decking, ventilation problems, moisture, or other conditions that may not be visible from the exterior.
If the roofer notices signs of possible water damage or other concerns during the exterior inspection, ask whether inspecting the attic would provide additional information before the estimate is finalized.
Take Your Time Choosing a Roofing Contractor
Choosing a professional to repair or replace your roof is an important decision that shouldn’t be rushed. A roof is a major investment in your home, and asking a few questions before scheduling an estimate can help you identify experienced contractors and avoid unnecessary headaches later.
Use your initial phone conversation to learn about the company, its experience, inspection process, estimates, and approach to roofing. Once you have narrowed down your choices, you can schedule an on-site roof inspection and compare detailed proposals.
Contact Revered Roofing
Revered Roofing provides professional roofing services throughout the South Shore service area. Our team would be happy to answer your questions and schedule an inspection for homeowners considering roof replacement or roof repair.
Ready to have your roof inspected? Request a free roofing quote online or call Revered Roofing at 781-536-4589.
We serve the entire South Shore and lower Cape with quality metal roofing products; standing seam, metal shingle and metal panel roofs in Hanson, Taunton, Marshfield, Quincy, Needham, Medfield, Milton, Halifax, Hanover, Falmouth and Plymouth.
Paul was easy going and a pleasure to deal with. No pressure. Crew got started late but the metal roof with new sky lights over our sun room was done in a day! Quality work. I recommend Revered Metal Roofing.