How to Properly Choose a Roofing Contractor
If you know someone in the home building, home repair or remodeling business you probably have an additional source for finding a roofing contractor. Builders and other contractors like to find a responsible roofing contractor and then use that business repeatedly. They are often willing to share the name of their favorite roofer with you. Home builders associations will also often have associate members which will include roofing contractors. While these associations will rarely recommend one contractor over another, they will often supply a list of all of their roofer/members and you can then pursue the information on the list.
There are also an increasing number of contractor referral companies, particularly in larger metropolitan areas. Be aware that these referral companies typically receive a fee for their referral so their recommendation might be biased. However this first step is simply to locate local businesses that do residential roofing.
Additionally, all types of contractors are establishing websites. A search for roofing contractors in your area will generate some names. One of the links which you will probably find is, a virtual yellow pages. Go there, or to a conventional yellow page book and you will find listings for roofing contractors. Often many of those listed in the phone book will be commercial roofers, but if you browse their listings you will find some specialize in residential roofing.
Once you have settled on several roofing contractors you should call and set up appointments for the roofers to visit the job site. A quality roofer would never quote a job without visiting the site. There many variables that a roofer must take into consideration, which cannot be considered without an on-site visit. When each contractor arrives, ask the roofer to provide several references for you to contact.
Your potential contractor should provide you with a written estimate which specifies the material to be used and the work his or her company will perform. The contractor should also have samples of products which you can examine, or should direct you to a showroom or supply house where you can look at samples of products the roofer recommends for your home. Roofing jobs rarely take longer than a few days and roofers are often booked up for days or weeks ahead. If you have an emergency situation, make sure you share that with the contractor early on in your conversation.
Compare price, guarantees on material and workmanship, availability, and the ability of the roofer to handle any repair issues which might be present. The residential roofer you choose will need to work closely with you to protect your home, your landscape and vegetation, as well as protecting your relationship with your neighbors, therefore don't fail to consider the contractor's level of customer service.