Five Questions to Ask a Toledo Roofer
The feeling you get as you watch your home transform to its full potential during a roofing project is nothing short of euphoric. Not only will it look better than ever, many roofing changes will improve its overall energy efficiency and comfort level.
But it’s not all fun and games. It’s also a very serious endeavor. Hiring a roofing contractor is one of the single most important decisions you’ll make as a home owner. After all, if you choose the wrong professional, the end result might not be the roof that you were hoping for.
Luckily, it’s not too difficult to hire the right roofer for the job. You simply need to know what questions to ask roofing contractors. To help you get the most out of your hard-earned money and hire the right professional from the get-go, here are the questions you should ask:
Question #1: What are the qualifications of the roofers you are considering?
Obviously, you’ll want your roofer to be capable of handling the job. You can’t afford to be shy. He or she will not get offended if you ask for their qualifications. Do some research and find out how long the roofers have been in business. If their business is new, research its track record so far. And ask for any necessary certifications that relate to your project, such as the Home Builders Association of Greater Toledo or Professional Remodelers Organization.
Question #2: How will the roofer handle scheduling of the work?
In order for the job to go smoothly, proper scheduling is essential. Ask the roofing contractor for an estimated time of completion for your entire roofing project and/or each stage along the way. Inquire as to how firm that estimation is, and what kinds of problems might arise that could extend the completion time. An experienced roofer should have no problem providing a solid schedule, including any necessary extensions.
Question #3: Can the roofer provide excellent references?
In the roofing business, references are important. You want to be sure that they’re not biting off more than they can chew. A good rule of thumb is to ask for three references, but one important element is that these references be from jobs that are similar to yours in scope. Being given a reference from a job that’s smaller than yours may clue you in to how certain elements were handled by the roofer, but might not give you exactly what you need. Contact these references and ask them questions concerning the quality of the work, completion time, whether or not the price estimation was exceeded, etc.
Question #4: How will roofers handle your money?
You’ll want to know if the roofing contractors are going to require payment up front. This really depends on the roofer and size of the project. It is not unusual for a partial payment to be required before the project begins. This may depend on the roofers relationship and/or line of credit with suppliers. Inquire as to their longevity in buying supplies, where the contractor banks (and for how long), and the names of at least three suppliers that he or she may use.
At Arnold's Home Improvement, standard roofing, windows, gutters, siding and insulation projects do not require any upfront payment or money down. Your payment is due once you are 100% completely satisfied with the work.
Question #5: What will the roofer’s written contract include?
The service contract often serves as the backbone of your project. Ask the roofers if the contract will be all-inclusive, or if certain elements might be handled outside of what’s written. Look for a list of what will be included in the work, in addition to the items that will not be included. And finally, be sure that there is a set plan for a payment schedule and how any possible disputes will be resolved.
Need help with your roof or have a question about your spring home improvement project? We would be happy to help. Give us a call at 1-844-ARNOLDS or complete our free, no hassle estimate form.