Replacing a roof on a home is a major home improvement project that falls beyond the realm of simple DIY jobs. To ensure the work is done correctly the first time, you need the assistance of a professional roofing contractor.
However, that alone does not guarantee an optimal outcome. You must also take a few additional measures to ensure your investment is protected and the job is executed smoothly and efficiently.
How Do You Pick a Good Roofer?
If this is your first time replacing the roof on your home in Wilmington, Delaware, then you have to go through the process of vetting roofing contractors and selecting the right one. While searching for and working with a Delaware roofing company, here are a few common mistakes to avoid:
1. Not Researching the Company
To make sure you select a reputable company for any home improvement project, including roof replacements. Check their ratings on various digital platforms, such as Google, Facebook, Yelp, and Houzz. Read the reviews so you can know what to expect from each prospective roofing company and use the information to select one that treats its customers the right way.
2. Working with an Unlicensed or Uninsured Roofer
Whether you’re winterizing, overlaying or replacing your existing roof, only work with a roofing company that is sufficiently licensed and insured. Professional roofers must take the required training and pass tests to become licensed in the field, and those credentials demonstrate their commitment to using best practices and being in compliance with local and state regulations. You should be careful working with a roofer who doesn’t openly provide their license number or who provides a different name and number than the person leading your roof replacement. Insurance is equally important, because it ensures the roofers are protected while working on your property and releases you from liability.
3. Not Asking About a Warranty
Most roofing contractors provide a workmanship warranty that provides coverage against installation or workmanship errors for about a year or two. You should make sure the Delaware company that installs your new roof provides some kind of warranty. Additionally, the roofing system they install should come with a manufacturer’s warranty for the materials themselves. These types of warranties generally carry terms of 10 to 30 years.
4. Trusting a Verbal Agreement
Before the project begins, get the estimate in writing from your roofing contractor. If they have enough experience, they should be able to provide you a fairly precise estimate that includes a breakdown on materials, labor, and other individual costs. You likely need a written and signed contract with a fixed cost to secure financing for the project and strong warranties. It also helps you prepare financially and make sure you are getting your money’s worth.
5. Going with the Cheapest Estimate
Sometimes the cheapest price aligns with the best option for your roof installation. Other times, a low bid denotes poor workmanship, customer service, and/or quality of materials. While price is an important factor, you should also consider how the business conducts itself and the quality of work they produce. It can be worth the extra money to have a roofing contractor that communicates well, completes the job right the first time, and thoroughly cleans up your property after finishing the work.
6. Paying for the Project Upfront
A reputable roofing professional won’t ask for you to pay the total amount of the project upfront. You are typically asked for a deposit, and you may make payments throughout the project. You shouldn’t have to pay the amount in full, however, until the project is completed and your new roof is inspected.
Superior Roofing Services in Wilmington, Delaware
Roofs are a critical component of your home’s entire infrastructure, in addition to offering protection for everything within the house. When it comes to residential roofing services, Bromwell Construction takes great care to give you peace of mind that your roof replacement will be the quality you expect.
