What to Look for When Hiring a Roofing Contractor
Your roof is your home’s most important line of defense against the elements, as it provides necessary protection for your family and belongings. Choosing the right roof is especially important for New England homeowners, as the climate is both varied and unforgiving. It’s equally vital that you select a roofing contractor that can live up to your service expectations while providing a new roof that you can count on for decades.
The Roofing Contractor Selection Process
If your roof is starting to fail and needs to be replaced, here are some factors to consider as you navigate the many roofing contractors offering their services to New England homeowners:
Trust the Word of Your Neighbors
Nothing speaks louder than customer satisfaction. Start your roofing contractor search by asking your neighbors, friends, and family for recommendations based on their experiences. Their first-hand accounts can provide valuable insights into the level of service and quality of workmanship each company delivers. Additionally, explore online reviews and testimonials to gauge customer satisfaction and see how the roofing company responds to feedback.
Protecting Your Investment
Before hiring a roofing contractor, verify that they are properly licensed to operate in your state. Licensing ensures that the company complies with local building codes and regulations, providing you with peace of mind that the work will be carried out to professional standards. Additionally, make sure the contractor has comprehensive insurance coverage for all employees and subcontractors. This protects you from liability in case of accidents or damage that may occur during the roofing project.
Long-Term Assurance
Your roofing materials should be accompanied by ironclad warranties that offer long-term protection for your investment. A reputable roofing contractor will provide both product warranties from the manufacturers and a labor warranty for the installation. This ensures that you are covered in case of any defects in materials or workmanship that may arise in the future.
Qualifications to Look for in a Roofing Company
If you want to remove as many variables as possible and ensure the success of your roofing project, consider the following qualifications when researching local roofing companies:
- Experience – Look for a company with a proven track record of completing roofing projects in New England.
- Certifications – Look for contractors with certifications from reputable manufacturers, which indicates their expertise and commitment to providing exceptional quality.
- Local knowledge – Focus on companies that are familiar with the specific challenges presented by the New England climate.
- Transparent communication – A reputable roofing contractor should communicate openly and clearly throughout the project, addressing any questions or concerns you have.
Decision Time
Once you’ve narrowed down your list to a few promising possibilities, there are additional steps you can take to ensure that you select the company that best fits your needs:
- Get multiple quotes – Obtain detailed quotes from each roofing contractor and ensure that each quote includes all the necessary work, materials, start and finish dates, and a total project cost.
- Ask for references – Request references from previous customers and follow up on them to gauge their satisfaction with the contractor’s work. A reputable company should have no problem providing contact information for former customers.
- Review contracts carefully – Read and make sure you understand the contract before signing. This allows you to make sure that all the agreed-upon terms, warranties, and guarantees are clearly stated.
Comparing Residential Roofing Products
Another vital part of choosing a roofing contractor is partnering with a company that offers the type of roof you want on your home. Several materials have a history of performing well in the New England climate, including:
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are a popular choice because of their affordability and versatility. They are relatively durable and can last between 20 to 30 years with proper maintenance.
Composite Tiles
Composite tile roofing offers the look of more expensive materials like slate or wood shakes at a more affordable price point. It is durable, lightweight, and resistant to fire, making it an excellent choice for New England homes.
Metal
Metal roofing is exceptionally durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, including heavy snowfall and intense winds. It has a long lifespan, often lasting 50 years or more.
Cedar Shakes
Cedar shake roofing offers a charming, rustic appearance that enhances the curb appeal of many homes in New England.
Slate
Slate roofing is renowned for its timeless elegance and exceptional durability. A well-maintained slate roof can last over a century, making it a long-term investment for homeowners who value both aesthetics and longevity.
The Local Roofing Experts
NEWPRO has been the preferred roof replacement choice for New England homeowners since 1945. We’re an Owens Corning Platinum preferred contractor, and we are committed to delivering top-notch roofing solutions that exceed customer expectations. Our Max-Protect asphalt shingle and Max-Composite roofing products are engineered to withstand the challenging New England climate while providing long-term protection for your home.
Contact us today to learn more about our roofing services and schedule a no-obligation consultation at your New England home.
