Roofing jobs can be significant investments. To make the most of this investment, you need to ensure you choose an experienced and reliable professional for roofing and energy-efficient replacement windows in Findlay, OH. It’s going to take a bit of effort, but the payoff will make it well worth your time.
2. Are you insured?
Working with reputable contractors increases the likelihood that your project will be carried out without a hitch. However, even the best planned projects can still involve unforeseen disruptions, which can unfortunately result in injury or damage to property. When these circumstances occur, your roofing contractor can protect you from liability if they are properly insured, offering coverage for both workman’s compensation and general liability.
3. What kind of roof should I get?
As experts in the industry, your roofing contractor should be able to provide you with roof replacement recommendations that will suit your needs and preferences. No two homes are exactly alike, so the selection process for a roofing system should never be “one size fits all.” Local roofers also have a better understanding of the types of challenges roofs face in your area.
4. Do you know how to install my choice of roofing material?
General experience is important, but specific experience installing your chosen roofing material is also critical. Different roofing materials require different handling techniques so make sure you are hiring a contractor well-versed in installing your roofing material of choice.
5. Do you have references I can talk to?
Contractors will always have great things to say about themselves, but don’t just take their word for it! Ask your prospective roofing contractor for references who can vouch for their reliability and the quality of their workmanship. You can also check the Internet for contractor reviews and testimonials.
6. What’s the roof repair or replacement process like?
Knowing what to expect during a roofing job will help keep any anxieties you might have about the project at bay. Have your roofing contractor walk you through the entire process, from any pre-installation tasks through the job itself to cleanup. This will give you a good idea of how your roofing project will progress.
Typically, a roof replacement involves these steps:
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Materials are delivered.
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Contractor arrives on agreed-upon start date.
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Old roofing materials are removed. Just how much will have to be removed will depend on the extent of the damage. If you are doing a complete roof replacement, your roofing system will be stripped down to decking and underlayment.
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Decking and underlayment are re-installed (if needed).
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Roofing material is installed.
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Flashing and other similar components are installed.
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Installed roofing is inspected.
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Debris is cleared and hauled away.
Note that how long a roofing job takes will depend on the complexity of the project and other factors such as weather conditions. Work with a reputable provider of roofing and window replacement services in Findlay, OH, however, and you can expect your roofing job to be finished in a timely manner according to the set schedule.
Once work begins, the most you can do really is let the professionals do their job. However, if you still have questions, feel free to voice them, especially if doing so will give you peace of mind.
7. How will you protect my lawn and landscaping?
Roof work can be messy, so ask your contractor how they’ll go about protecting your lawn and landscaping, as well as your patio or deck. This may be a more pressing concern especially if you have something you want protected, like seasonal flowers or other plants you’ve taken great pains to grow. Check whether they will be using specialized protective equipment or tarps. Either way, some level of protection has to be in place for your yard.
8. Will you clean pathways of nails right away?
Any roofing contractor worth working with will be concerned about your safety and will take pre-emptive measures to make sure there are no stray nails left on your property. Just to be clear, however, you should ask your roofing contractor. Walking around with nails on the ground is dangerous for everyone.
9. Will you cover my roof at the end of the day?
If the project takes more than one day, your roof will need to be temporarily covered with a tarp to protect your home from the elements. Ask your roofer about their procedure for tarping.
10. Who will be available on-site to address any concerns?
Typically, whoever handled your contract will be with you every step of the way, on-hand to take care of any concerns you might have. When work actually begins, however, they may not be always on site. Instead, you will be assigned a site manager you can talk to. Make sure you have the name and contact info of this individual.
11. Is maintenance included in the roofing job I hired you to do?
Most roofers don’t include maintenance in a roof replacement job, but it’s certainly something you can negotiate as a current customer. Routine upkeep is recommended to ensure roofing systems perform their best and it makes sense to entrust that job to the contractor that repaired or installed your roof in the first place.
12. What kind of warranty do you offer?
Roofing contractors usually offer product warranties and workmanship guarantees separately. Product warranties are normally provided by roofing manufacturers as a way of standing behind their products, while workmanship guarantees are the responsibility of your roofer. Make sure you understand the terms of the warranty or warranties your contractor offers.
When it comes to roofing jobs, you simply can’t afford be unprepared. As with a patio door installation in Findlay, OH, roofing work requires experience and skill, and you need to ensure the contractor you hire has plenty of both. As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to make sure that you are working with the right people and that you are making informed choices by asking the right questions.
