Choosing the Right Contractor
A new roof is a big job and a big investment. That's why we strongly recommend that you hire a professional roofing contractor like Roger Romero Roofing Co. who can offer proven experience, a written estimate and worry-free installation.
It is common today to shop around when making large purchase decisions. However we will advise you that when shopping for a new roof, don't automatically choose the lowest estimate!
To make sure you're choosing the best roofing contractor and comparing apples to apples, use this check list before you sign a contract.
Does the contractor:
- Have a good reputation? Check for references and call a few of them.Ask for a list of successfully completed projects in your area. If possible, go look at the contractor's work. Check with the BBB to see if any complaints are unresolved.
- Have adequate insurance coverage? Protect your home from accidental damage?
- Thoroughly inspect your roof? Including flashing chimney, soil stacks, other roof penetration, deck, plus attic?
- Provide a written estimate? Including an accurate description of the work to be performed, plus work that may have to be contracted out?
- Explain the entire roof system? Your roof is a series of components that work together; you should know all about them.
- Check existing ventilation for proper circulation? Explain the importance of ventilation? Improper ventilation will damage your shingles and can invalidate your manufacturer's warranty.
- Explain reasons for tearing off versus nailing over the existing roof? Local codes determine the maximum number of nail-overs.
- Know, explain and comply with local building codes? In the city of El Paso Texas a roofing permit is required in order to commence work.
- Apply underlayment to the wood deck? Additional waterproofing underlayment might be needed if ice damming, wind-driven rain, or collected or flowing water might be a problem.
- Apply shingles according to manufacturer's specifications?
- Use proper fastening techniques? Four fasteners for each shingle - six in high wind areas. Fasteners should penetrate 3/4" into the deck.
- Commit to supervise the job during all phases of work and inspect it completely when finished?
- Thoroughly clean up your roof and around your house when finished? Remove all surplus material? Leave your yard in the same shape the contractor found it?
- Clearly explain both the workmanship and manufacturer's warranty? Are defective shingles replaced for prorated replacement cost, or original cost, with labor additional? You should be very clear about who to call with a problem.
- Use quality roofing materials? Check warranty plus UL fire and wind resistance ratings. Choose a name you trust - not all shingles are the same.
- Don't sign any agreement that you don't fully understand or agree with.
- Once you have selected a contractor, give him the access he needs to get the job done
- Don't pay cash in advance to a salesperson or contractor.
BEWARE of...
- Contractor whose references are all out of state.
- Contractor who wants money before materials are on site.
- Contractor who is not an established member of the community.
- Contractor who only works on weekends or non-normal business hours. (Usually this means that this is a side Job)
- Contractor who does not have an established office presence.
- Contractor who does not have full-time employees. (You do not want strangers who are unknown to you or you contractor on your property.... You'd be surprised)
- Contractor who claims that they can do many other jobs apart from roofing.