The roof of your house has a lifespan of about fifteen years. If your roof is less than fifteen years and you are having roofing problems, probably you are likely looking to have your roof repaired rather that replaced. If your roof is more than fifteen years, it may be necessary to get a new roof installed. If you need your house roof repaired, or a new roof, it is wise to hire a professional roofing contractor. A Roofing Contractor will assess the condition of your roof, will recommend a replacement or repair, and proper use of appropriate materials to provide a professional installation.
Before hiring a roofing contractor, it is advisable to get referrals and recommendations from family and friends. You should also get several quotes before hiring a contractor. There should be complete and detailed roofing quotes, containing specifications of the roofing work to be done, the cost of all materials, labor and a schedule for the scope of work. An additional thing to check is to ensure the cleaning is included in the quote. Otherwise, this could be an extra cost or something you have to take care of yourself.
It is important when hiring a roofing contractor to check their credentials and ask how long they have been in business. Visit the contractor board to check for any complaint or lawsuit. Make sure that they have a physical address. A good number of contractors are “fly by night” companies. There are even reports of scams of this kind of work for a false business identity without a license or a physical location. Roofing contractors must be properly licensed and insured. It protects you, the owner, from damage during their work.
If you decide on a roofing repair or a new installation, a building permit will be required by your city. Make sure the roofing contractor you choose to hire is familiar with all the necessary permits and local building regulations. Inspection of the building code is also required probably before, during and after the completion of the necessary construction. Also, make sure the roofer is in compliance with all regulations.
Once you have decided on a roofing contractor, make sure you get a contract to be done. Again, it should consist of details about all the work required, the cost of materials, estimated labor, and the deadline for completion. If there are guarantees, they must be indicated in the contract, including all detailed warranty. Read the warranty carefully to make sure you understand all the terms. Do not be afraid to ask the contractor to explain anything you do not understand. If you feel the warranty is not sufficient to express your opinions, please ask for an amendment. Make sure you cleaning is included in the contract, so you are not stuck with the extra costs of cleaning.
Above all, do not rush to hire a roofing contractor without properly examining the details and available options (ex.: consider metal roofing panels ). Make sure you take the time to study and evaluate any roofer, you are considering to hire. Do not rush – the decision can wait until you have completed your search. Roofing repairs or a new roof is an important investment, so take more time to complete your research and save yourself from long-term aggravation.
The bottom line is when you are looking for the best roofing contractor, look for one that offers verifiable experience, proper licensing permit, which provides reasonable solutions to your roofing problems at a good price. Your new roof or repaired roof should make you happy for years to come.
So what are you waiting for? If you need a new roofing installation or need your roof replaced, get in touch with the Chicago roofer.