When your home needs work, the most challenging part for homeowners is finding the right professionals to do the work. Many automatically choose the company that offers the lowest price, but there’s truth in the saying, “You get what you pay for.” That’s why you need to do your homework and find contractors who balance work quality and cost-effectiveness.
With that in mind, the experts from West Coast Roofing, the source for top roof repair in Tucson, AZ, explain what homeowners should know before hiring a roofing contractor.
Your home’s roof does more than keep your family warm and dry. It’s a critical structural component of the building, and if a contractor doesn’t use the right materials or methods when repairing or replacing it, you face a greater risk of damage during storms, including a complete collapse.
While getting a quality roof is the biggest reason to take time researching roofing contractors, taking the time will also help protect your budget. Shoddy workmanship will undoubtedly require more repairs over time, and there’s a good chance you’ll have to replace the entire roof sooner rather than later. Hiring a roofing contractor with a track record of excellence also ensures the structure complies with all the applicable local, state, and national codes, eliminating the possibility of an unpleasant surprise in the future.
You can find the information you need to make a smart choice when hiring a roofing contractor online via the company website, local government databases, and review sites, as well as by talking to the contractor and other people. Don’t skip this vital research. Spending a few hours gathering the following information and meeting potential contractors can save years of inconveniences and expenses.
Getting a quality roof requires working with a quality roofing company. When researching potential roofers to work on your home, look at what other customers have to say about their experiences with the company. Do the workers consistently show up on time, perform good work, complete projects as promised, and clean up after themselves?
You can find input from previous customers on the company website and by asking them for references, but check Google Reviews, Yelp, and other review sources for information as well. Be aware of any feedback patterns that indicate ongoing issues that could present problems for you.
Don’t forget to check the company's Better Business Bureau rating, too. Be cautious of any company with multiple unresolved complaints.
Under Arizona law, roofing contractors must have a state license to work on residential or commercial roofing projects. Before hiring a roofing contractor, confirm that they have this license, which indicates that they passed the state exam demonstrating their industry knowledge, passed a state background check, and have the appropriate bond and insurance coverage. A reputable roofing contractor will happily supply copies of their license upon request.
Many companies specialize in specific types of roofing and may be a better choice if you need work on a similar roof. For example, many southern Arizona homes have tile roofs. Repairing or replacing these roofs requires specialized knowledge and experience, so look for a roofing contractor with a track record of success on similar projects.
If you need repairs due to a storm or other accident and your homeowner’s insurance will cover the damage, ask the roofing contractor whether they provide insurance claim assistance. A company that has experience working with insurance companies can make the process less stressful.
Any roofing contractor you consider should provide a detailed quote in writing. The roofer should visit your home and perform a detailed interior and exterior inspection of the current roof to determine what the roof needs and explain different options to repair or replace roofs.
The roofer’s quote should include details about the scope of the work and who will complete it, the estimated start and end dates of the project, and the costs for both labor and materials. The quote should also include any additional fees (such as waste disposal) and payment terms.
A roof is only as good as the materials used to build it, so confirm that the company uses high-quality roofing materials on every project. Ask the roofing contractor about your options and the pros and cons of each. A great contractor will work with you to identify the right roofing materials to fit your budget and preferences.
When hiring a roofing contractor, ask about the company’s work methods and how they approach different projects. For example, what is their typical work schedule, and what do they do to ensure the longevity of the repairs or construction? Knowing how they approach projects like yours can give you an idea of what to expect and prevent misunderstandings.
One important but often overlooked question relates to cleanup. Some roofing companies leave cleanup to the homeowners, while others include it in the project bid. Confirm who will take care of picking up stray nails and other debris after project completion, so you know exactly what to expect.
Reputable roofing contractors will stand behind their work with a warranty on their craftsmanship, in addition to the manufacturer's warranty on the materials. A warranty provides peace of mind that you won’t have to deal with roof issues for years, but review the fine print to ensure you understand what the warranty covers. Some warranties require annual inspection or maintenance to remain in effect, for example.
When it’s time to deal with roof problems in Tucson, Arizona, hiring a roofing contractor doesn’t have to be an exercise in frustration. Simply reach out to the experts at West Coast Roofing for contractors who check all the boxes: an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, competitive pricing, exceptional work quality, and warranty-backed roofing from experienced experts.
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