Things You Need to Know Before Choosing a Roofer
Regardless of whether you need a simple repair or a complete roof replacement, it’s important to pick the right roofer for the job. In addition to choosing a roofing contractor who is experienced and qualified, you should also select someone who will be easy to work with during the entire process to ensure that you and your contractor are communicating effectively and resolving any issues that may arise.
Be sure that the contractor also possesses these nine characteristics (or at least most of them) after you’ve checked the roofing company’s credentials and coverage (or at least most of them) before signing the contract.
1. Are they good communicators?
Being able to communicate with your roofing contractor is crucial. When homeowners and contractors fail to communicate effectively, costly mistakes occur, and frustration ensues. It is therefore essential that many lines of communication be established early on in the process. As the job progresses, you must communicate freely with your contractor about your needs and concerns.
2. Are they patient?
Many factors must be considered before a roof construction job can begin, and many decisions must be made. Consider hiring a patient roofing contractor who can explain the process and guide you through some of the more difficult choices.
3. Are they trustworthy?
You need a trustworthy roofer for any service, and that’s no different with your roofing contractor. Roofing contractors and their employees will be around your home for a long time, so make sure they’re trustworthy. Referrals and testimonials from previous clients are good ways to check a company’s reputation.
4. Are they dependable?
An experienced roofing contractor knows how long it will take to complete a job and should provide you with a schedule for when your project will start and end. As soon as your roofing contractor begins work on your roof, your house will remain exposed to the elements until the project is completed. It’s important that your roofing contractor maintains consistency, avoids unnecessary delays, and provides an accurate timeline.
5. Are they organized?
It’s reasonable to expect an organized person to perform a service for you. In addition to a detailed, written proposal, your roofing contractor should include a timeline and point out the materials (including brand names, if applicable) to be used and when you will be required to pay.
6. Are they detail-oriented?
Can you tell me where the trash pile or dumpster will go? Is construction scheduled to begin early in the morning? What time will the workers stop working in the evening? How about the weekend? Making decisions before the job begins is imperative, as roofing affects many aspects of your residential and family life. Your roofing contractor should be able to answer any questions and anticipate your needs regarding the work.
7. Are they put together?
Have you noticed that your roofing contractor is neat and clean when they arrive at your home on their first visit? Are their trucks clean and undamaged, with their company name and license number and permanent lettering emblazoned on the side? If they arrive in neat and clean clothes, that’s a good indication that the person is attentive to detail. They don’t need to wear a suit and tie, but their appearance does show that they’re professional.
8. Are they economically credible?
Roofing contractors who request full payment of the job upfront or require a high percentage of the jobs cost upfront may not be financially stable. An approximate 50 percent down payment is considered decent in most situations. Your roofing contractor should clearly outline when and how much each installment will be paid in the written proposal you receive. Due to the short duration of roofing projects, there is usually an initial down payment and the rest of the balance when the job is completed.
9. Are they flexible?
You may need or want to change the roofing plan after the contract has been signed, as is the case with any type of construction. Check to see how changes will be handled after the contract is signed. An individual document should be prepared by the roofing contractor before the changes are made, including the details of the changes and the costs associated with them.
If you choose the right person for the job, you won’t have to worry about replacing or repairing your roof. If you’re signing a contract, make sure you’re making the right choice. Contact Watkins Construction & Roofing at 601-966-8233 in Byram, Madison, Pearl, Ridgeland, or Jackson, MS