Updating, repairing, or replacing your roof can be a big commitment. Combine that with the intimidation factor of selecting a roofer, and the process can be downright perplexing. For that reason, it’s important to equip yourself with essential questions to ask a roofer before diving into the contracting process. With the help of these questions, you’ll be able to proceed with confidence on your roof update.
Questions to Ask a Roofer
Do They Have Insurance?
This is one of the most important questions to ask a roofer. Ensuring that a roofing crew has solid insurance coverage will protect you from unforeseen medical bills and repair costs. It’s essential that they have workers’ compensation and liability insurance. Both kinds of coverage are important to protect you, the homeowner, in the event of a roofing accident. Liability coverage will protect you in case the roofing crew causes any damage during the replacement of your roof. Workers’ compensation coverage will protect you if an accident causes an injury to members of the roofing crew.
Will They Remove Your Old Roof?
When it’s time to re-shingle your asphalt roof, you can either remove the old shingles or apply the new shingles over the existing layer. Technically, you can keep several layers of shingles on your home, meaning that you may not necessarily have to remove your entire old roof when getting a new one. However, removing your old roof is a good way to start fresh. It allows your roofer to identify any mold or rot that may compromise the integrity of your home. It may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to make sure you’re not stuck with the removal of your old roof if you’d like to complete a full removal and replacement. Once your roof is replaced, confirm that the roofer can help you dispose of it so that you’re not left with an unsightly mess on your property.
How Will They Handle Garbage?
Speaking of unsightly messes: Roofing produces a lot of construction debris. When overseeing a roof replacement for your home, make sure that a roofing contractor has a plan for handling debris produced by the project. Many roofers commit to managing their own debris by bringing their own storage and disposal containers. However, it’s important to double-check your roofer’s plan so they don’t leave you with a mess.
Are They Licensed?
In Missouri, roofing contractors are not required to be licensed. However, product manufacturing companies typically only back licensed contractors. That means licensed contractors can offer the best warranties. If you’d like to check the status of your roofer’s license, call your local licensing office. The office will be able to tell you the status of your roofer’s license and inform you of any outstanding violations.
Are They Available for Maintenance and Repairs?
You don’t want to find a new roofer every time you need a minor roof repair. Ideally, you’ll be able to work with your roofer for years to come. Establishing a relationship with a reputable roofer is the best way to ensure that they’ll be available for future roof services. If you want to avoid re-inventing the wheel each time you need a roof repair, make sure to work with a local company with a solid reputation.
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Identifying a roofer and overseeing the repair or removal of your roof can be a big task. The experts at Taylor-Made Roofing are here to make your experience stress-free. We’ve been in business in southwest Missouri for more than 20 years, and we’re committed to keeping your roof solid and attractive for years to come. Call us at 417-326-8778 to set up a consultation or roofing service.