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A roof replacement is a major home project that requires more skills than using a gun or nail hammer. After all, the roof plays an important role in protecting you from the elements and harsh weather conditions.
For a roof replacement to be successful, a homeowner should go to great lengths to ensure that the contractor hired to do the job, is reliable. The best roofing works, whether a replacement, repair, or construction should have high-quality materials and done with high craftsmanship.
So, how do you arrive at a smart and informed decision? Below are the four tips to ensure that your next roofing replacement project is a success.
1. Know The Different Roofing Options
Before even picking up the phone or keying in ‘roofers near me’ for a list of potential contractors, you have to know the best roofing materials in your location.
Identifying the types of roofing materials and in which conditions they’re best, is the key to your roof replacement success.
- Asphalt Shingles: Fiberglass asphalt shingles are known to be more durable in harsh weather conditions compared to other roofing options. They’re also quick to install, wind-resistant, and cost-effective. They do have a shorter life span of 20 years and may look less stylish than other types. This doesn’t stop homeowners from choosing them. Industry estimates that 66% of homes in the United States use this type of roofing material.
- Metal Roofing: Steel and aluminum are the most commonly used metal roofs in the industry. They’re known to last for up to 50 years and are fire-proof but are on the pricey side.
- Wood Shingles: They offer high aesthetic appeal and generally durable. However, they’re easily affected by fire and may not be a good choice in areas prone to this natural hazard.
- Clay and Cement Tiles: Homes in warm climates could benefit better from clay roof tiles because they’re fire and weather-resistant. They’re also more resistant to mildew and moss formation.
- Plastic Shingles: Most plastic shingles are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). They tend to last for 30 years and are known for their durability, too.
- Slate Shingles: They’re organic and eco-friendly, being naturally made from stone. As such they’re the most expensive to replace your roof with. They’re resistant to damage and insects, and they can last a lifetime.
Knowing these different types of roofing materials can help you look for reputable contractors.
2. Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor
Ask friends and family members for recommendations. If not, scan the internet to come up with a list of potential contractors.
Narrow down your list to two or three options and start communicating with each company. Find out more about their expertise, ask for their certification and insurances, and warranties or after-sales service. Ask for a quote and the program of works to know what to expect.
It’s best to choose a local company that has a physical office in your locality. Building codes and construction rules differ from one state to another. In choosing a local roofing company, you’ll have fewer legal headaches down the road. Consider hiring companies like roofing Franklin TN if you’re living in the area.
3. Stress On Value, Not the Price
a professional master (roofer) with electric screwdriver covers repairs the roof
Being a major home project, expect the cost of a roof replacement to be costly upfront. While you want to stick to your budget, cost shouldn’t be the only consideration. Choose the roofing company that can offer you the best value-for-money.
Study the quotes properly and check what’s included in the package. Are all labor and materials included in the quote? Or are you facing a statement that’s riddled with hidden costs and charges? Make sure you’re getting everything you paid for.
4. Compare After-Sales Service
Despite being known to last for a decade or so, roof materials aren’t invincible and may be impacted by the installation works done by your contractor.
First, always make sure that your roofers have considerable service warranties and have them indicate this on paper. Have everything documented – the contract, receipts, dates, and progress of roof work so you don’t have difficulties checking whether your roof works are still covered by warranty or not. Having lengthy warranty periods for both materials and workmanship adds to the trustworthiness of the roofing company.
5. Communicate with Your Roofers Often
Your work doesn’t end after choosing the best roofing company. In fact, it may just be the beginning. Get involved in the replacement process by keeping your line of communication with the roofers open. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and discuss the possibility of minor improvements. Monitor the schedule as stipulated in the contract. In cases of delays due to unforeseen circumstances, discuss the best alternative options with your contractors.
Wrapping Things Up
With these tips, we hope that as a homeowner, you’re able to make a smart and confident decision about your roofing replacement project. Choosing the best contractor is the key, while a homeowner’s active involvement, is crucial.
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