- Hilary Young
How to Choose the Right Contractor
Happy March! We made it through the winter! Hooray! Bring on the sunshine, warm weather, picnics, and – most likely, storm season! Yikes!
We hope your roof does not get damaged. But, if it does, you will want to have your roof inspected for repair – or possibly a full replacement ! As always, we would love for you to choose us so we can help you out!
Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a roofing contractor:
Interview the contractors you are considering – Comparing only prices isn’t the best plan, since there are so many additional factors. Talking one on one with a candidate ensures you’re aware of all your options and helps you gauge the pride he/she takes in their work. You want a good rapport with the person you’ll be working with! Also, don’t be afraid to ask what their process is for solving problems when they come up!
Insurance – The contractor MUST have comprehensive liability and worker’s compensation insurance. You can even ask to see copies of the certificates to be sure. If they are not insured, and a worker gets injured on your property, the expenses come out of your pocket! Companies who take necessary safety precautions probably have more overhead. This is a price worth paying. Uninsured contractors may yield shoddy work, may not guarantee their work, may not be a full-time contractor, may be new to the business, or may not be able to afford insurance at all!
Licensed/Certified – Look for roofing specific licenses/certifications, not just a business license. For example, Georgia Roof Advisors is GAF Master Elite.
Referrals/References – Ask for these from previous jobs and/or look up online reviews. You may also want to check them out on the Better Business Bureau website.
Workmanship Warranty – Check out the guarantees the contractor has in place and for how long their work is covered. Georgia Roof Advisors offers warranties through GAF to guarantee our work.
Adjuster Appointment – If you’re dealing with an insurance claim, will the contractor be there to represent you during this appointment? You’re more likely to have your claim approved if he/she is there to protect your best interests.
Project Manager – Will there be a project manager on site the day of install? This is a best practice. He/she will have the technical expertise needed to oversee the project and help answer any questions that might come up throughout the day.
Amount of time they have been in business – Seasoned roofing contractors will know how to guide you best, have adequate certifications, implement a smoothly run process, have relationships with crews and other contractors needed, and have the money to pay for your materials up front (so you don’t pay until you’re 100% happy). Georgia Roof Advisors has been in business over 12 years!
Things the contractor should include/discuss:
Include code upgrades (like drip edge and ice/water shield).
Remove all layers of shingles present to determine the state of the wood underneath – NEVER let a contractor simply add shingles on top of existing shingles. Even though this might cut costs, this is a gigantic failure. The state of your roof’s wood must be identified.
Daily clean-up of premises.
Allotted wood price included in estimate – Rotten wood MUST be removed and replaced to maintain the integrity of the roof.
You are responsible for paying your deductible to the insurance company (if an insurance claim is involved).
Material options (shingles, etc.) – These can affect the value of your home. Take the time with your contractor to consider your choices.
Most importantly, you want to look for the best value, not the lowest bid. With roof work, you really do get what you pay for. As always, we are here if you have any questions. Give us a call today for your free inspection – 678-757-3477. And Happy Spring!
We’re not your average roofing company.
Sources: www.certainteed.com , www.gaf.com