When you are ready to hire a roofing company to do repairs or install a new roof on your home, there are many company choices. Part of finding the best roofing services is obtaining estimates from each company so you can compare prices, materials, and the actual services that will be performed.
Yet estimates are only useful if you know what you want and can compare the same job that has been quoted by numerous companies. As a homeowner, nobody expects you to know everything about roofing; however, it is a good idea to begin your search with some basic knowledge that will help you make the right choice.
Know Your Home and Your Roof
Before you can consider any other details when seeking quality roofing work, it is important to understand how your home architecture can affect your roof. Cost is not solely based on materials and labor, but also on the complexity of job and what is actually involved.
Homes with dormers, a lot of sharp angles, and especially steep pitches can be harder to work on. Similarly, any damage to the main structure as well as known ventilation or material issues can affect the roofing services your home requires as well as the price.
Know When to Repair vs. When to Replace
It may be possible for a roofing company to make repairs on your roof, while other times replacement is the best option. Although this decision is fairly easy to make when dealing with smaller and more simple issues, making such a determination when dealing with bigger and more widespread issues can be challenging.
Do not always assume that everything can be repaired, especially if repairs have already been made. Understand what conditions indicate that replacement is the most cost-effective choice, such as widespread damage to the materials, multiple layers of shingles, or the inability to obtain same materials. When getting estimates, ask roofing services to quote both repair and replacement, advise which one they recommend, and why that is their choice.
Know Something About Roofing Material
In addition to understanding the intricacies of your roof and the various conditions that could warrant replacement over repair, invest a little time in learning about roofing material. Generally speaking, shingles are the most economical to install, although other materials like slate, tile, and metal might be more energy efficient.
Some materials are preferable for certain homes, while others cannot be used on certain roofs. Fire and wind resistance is a definite concern, as is the life expectancy of the materials you choose. Cost will differ based on these and many other details. If you know some of the pros and cons of acceptable materials in advance, understanding estimates and costs will be easier.
Find A Reputable Contractor
Research each roofing company that provides an estimate to ensure they have a good reputation and can do quality work. Never choose a roofer based on cost alone since there are so many variables involved in this type of work. Look for a licensed contractor with a good Better Business Bureau rating and good online reviews and who provides you with a detailed, self-explanatory estimate of all work, costs, and warranty information.
The key to getting a great roofing job lies in choosing the right roofing company. The best way to accomplish this is by knowing a little bit about your home, the work you need to have done, and the various materials options available. Discuss your needs carefully with a variety of roofing services so you have estimates to compare. The time you put into learning the details will ensure you get what you want and need to keep your home in top condition!
