Top 10 Questions to Ask a Roofing Contractor

Protecting your home starts with a top-quality roof, and when that roof needs repair work, finding a reputable roofing contractor becomes equally important. But with so many options available, how do you determine the right fit for you? To make an informed decision, you need to ask the right questions, so we’ve curated a list of the top 10 questions you should ask any roofing contractor before hiring them. By doing so, you’ll gain the peace of mind and confidence needed to make the perfect choice for your roofing needs.

1. What is your company’s full name and address?

When choosing a roofing contractor, it’s essential to prioritize transparency and credibility. A traceable business name, physical address, and contact information are all critical indicators of a reliable contracting option, so be cautious of contractors who can’t or are unwilling to provide this basic information.

To ensure you’re making an informed hiring decision, take the extra step of researching their name and address through resources like the Better Business Bureau, online databases, and relevant social media channels. Thorough additional investigations will help you spot potential red flags that may raise concerns.

2. How long have you been in business?

Experience matters in the roofing industry, and while young, talented contractors can do phenomenal work, you are more likely to have a good roof repair experience with well-established roofing companies. A proven track record, an extensive portfolio, and a collection of customer testimonials mean the contractor is more likely to provide reliable and high-quality services. For example, Stonewater Roofing has been providing contract roofing services for over thirteen years.

3. Are you licensed and insured?

One of the most crucial questions to ask, not just a roofing contractor but any contractor, is whether they have their licenses and insurance. A reputable roofing contractor like Stonewater Roofing will have the necessary licenses to operate in your area and carry adequate insurance to protect you and their workers in the event of an accident. If they seem hesitant to share this information with you, take that as a sign to walk away.

4. Can you provide any reviews or customer testimonials?

This is one of the most important questions to ask a roofing contractor! Referencing reviews from previous clients can provide valuable insight into a contractor’s quality and professionalism, and while doing this yourself can be helpful, asking the contractor directly will allow you to gauge their confidence in their work. How easily and readily they provide you with customer opinions will speak volumes about the quality of their services.

5. Do you offer a warranty on your work?

A reputable roofing contractor should stand behind their work with a warranty. More extended warranties generally indicate a higher level of confidence, so inquire beforehand about the warranties they provide for both materials and labor. That way, you have peace of mind in case any issues arise after the project is completed.

Some products require installation by contractors with special certifications to qualify for their warranties. Master Elite® Contractors are authorized to offer any GAF enhanced limited warranty — a status Stonewater Roofing proudly holds.

6. Can you provide me with a written estimate?

To ensure your project is smooth and surprise-free, make it a priority to ask for and obtain a detailed, written estimate in advance. While many contractors regularly provide estimates for their work, it’s always a good idea to double-check, as a detailed estimate will have many major costs listed, including labor, materials, and any potential unforeseen expenses that may arise.

At Stonewater Roofing, we take a different approach to estimates. We work closely with your homeowner’s insurance provider to simplify the process so that your deductible becomes your primary financial consideration. This enables our team to make the process easier for you while still ensuring that your budgetary expectations are efficiently managed.

7. How will you ensure the project is completed on time?

Hiccups happen, but a dependable roofing contractor should be able to provide you with an estimated project completion timeframe and share what contingency plans they have in place to address potential obstacles. Thoroughly review your contract before finalizing the home improvement project, ask questions, and be sure they have the necessary provisions to guarantee a schedule.

8. What steps will you take to protect my property?

When you have work done on your house, it’s natural to feel concerned about the impact on your property, so ask your contractor about the precautionary measures they will take to protect your home. Ideally, you want your property to look exactly as it did before the work began, and a reputable contractor will take steps to ensure your mind is put at ease.

9. What safety precautions do you follow?

Roofing can be hazardous work, so a quality you should look for when hiring a contractor is whether or not they effectively prioritize the safety of you and their team. Ask about the safety measures they have in place to protect their workers; don’t be afraid to ask about general liability or whatever questions are necessary to put your mind at ease.

10. What do you do with refuse material?

When your roofing contractor completes the project, the last thing you want to deal with is a yard filled with the debris they’ve left behind. Ask your roofer what they do with roof-related refuse material and how they can ensure it gets disposed of properly. Most qualified contractors will bring along a dumpster or other refuse container for damaged materials but confirm ahead of time so you aren’t left cleaning up their mess.

Stonewater Roofing takes customer service and job site cleanliness seriously. We clean our work area and the surrounding yard at the conclusion of every work day, not just when the project is complete.

Stonewater Roofing is a contractor you can trust!

Choosing the right roofing contractor is the first step toward a successful roofing project. Whether you’re looking for basic repairs or a full roof replacement, you need to make the right choice when hiring. By asking these ten essential questions, you can more effectively assess the expertise, professionalism, and reliability of any contractor before making your decision.

But if you’re looking for a roofing contractor you can trust, look no further than Stonewater Roofing. While you now know what questions to ask a roofing contractor, you can rest assured that you’ll get top-quality work if you go with Stonewater. With our extensive experience and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, you can be confident in the results of your roofing project every single time.

For a free quote or to ask any questions you may have, contact the team here at Stonewater Roofing today!

Maximizing the Life of Your Roof: Roof Maintenance 101

Your home’s roof is more than just a protective barrier. It insulates, provides value, and plays a vital role in tying together your home’s aesthetic. But no roof is perfect, and every roofing material requires some level of maintenance to ensure it’s working correctly. Roof maintenance may appear overwhelming at first, but with the proper knowledge and support, navigating this crucial aspect of homeownership can be relatively straightforward.

Conduct Regular Roof Inspections

Regular roof inspections play a crucial role in maintaining the health of your roof. By scheduling periodic professional inspections, you can take a proactive approach to identify signs of damage, prevent major repairs, and mitigate any potential issues before they happen. Look out for cracked or missing shingles, loose flashing, and clogged or damaged gutters, as these can all indicate problems that require attention. Whether you notice visible issues or not, it’s highly recommended that you have a professional inspection performed at least once per year. Professionals have the expertise and tools to conduct safe, comprehensive assessments, and by being proactive, you can detect and address issues before they become substantial problems, saving yourself significant amounts of time and money.

If it’s time for a roof damage assessment, don’t hesitate to contact our expert team at Stonewater Roofing. Our comprehensive inspection tools are designed to ensure the optimal condition and longevity of your roof.

Address Repairs Promptly

When an issue is identified during a roof inspection, it’s important to handle any repairs as soon as you’re aware of them. Even minor problems can escalate quickly and turn into major issues if left unattended. Whether it’s a small leak or a few damaged shingles, taking prompt action for repairs can prevent larger, more costly repairs further down the road. By addressing roof problems early on, you can save yourself from unnecessary stress, expenses, and potential damage to your home.

Keep Those Gutters Clean

Don’t underestimate the impact of clogged gutters on the health of your roof and home. While cleaning them can be time-consuming and messy, neglecting them can jeopardize your foundation’s integrity and increase the risk of flooding. Regularly clearing debris from your gutters is essential to maintain proper drainage and prevent water-related issues from escalating into costly problems in the future. If you find gutter cleaning or repair overwhelming, don’t worry. Stonewater Roofing provides comprehensive roof maintenance services that include gutter cleaning and maintenance. Our team is equipped to keep your gutters in optimal condition, ensuring adequate water flow and safeguarding the well-being of your home.

Watch Out for Overhanging Tree Branches

The charm of overhanging tree branches can add character to your home, but it’s important to be aware of the potential harm they can inflict on your roof. When the wind blows, these branches can scrape against the shingles, leading to the peeling and deterioration of roofing materials. This creates entry points for critters to access your roof, increasing the risk of infestation and further damage. During storms, these branches become even more hazardous, posing a threat to your roof by falling and causing severe structural damage or harm to anyone inside.

To protect the integrity of your roof, a safe distance of 10 feet or more should be maintained between tree branches and your roofline. Proactive trimming of overhanging branches can minimize the risk of roof damage and prevent other issues, like debris accumulation, which can lead to clogged gutters and other water-related problems. By taking this step, you can help to ensure the safety of your family and your home.

Tile Roof TLC

Tile roofs are renowned for their durability and resistance to rot, but they still require proper care and attention to maintain their longevity. While cracked or broken tiles are not overly common, they can occur due to the fragile nature of the material, especially when subjected to body weight or falling debris. It’s crucial to address any damaged tiles promptly to prevent water infiltration, which can lead to significant structural damage to your home. For the installation and repair of roof tiles, it is highly recommended to seek the expertise of a professional.

Fortunately, the skilled team at Stonewater Roofing is here to help! With years of experience serving residential and commercial properties throughout Austin, DFW, and East Texas, we have the knowledge and expertise to address all your roofing concerns. Whether you need tile roof installation, repairs, or maintenance, we can provide the reliable solutions you need. Our commitment to delivering top-notch roofing services ensures that your tile roof receives the proper care and attention it deserves, helping to safeguard your home for years to come.

Should I Get My Roof Professionally Inspected?

Investing in professional damage assessments is a wise decision that can save you substantial costs in the long run. While the average cost of a roof inspection may be around $200, Stonewater Roofing offers a free damage assessment. Contact us today to be sure you’re not putting off any undetected issues that may worsen over time, resulting in more extensive damage and higher repair costs down the line.

Conclusion

Every type of roof, whether it’s made of asphalt shingles, metal, tile, or rubber, is susceptible to damage over time. That’s why investing in regular roof maintenance is essential. By taking proactive measures, you not only protect your home but also save money in the long run. Timely inspections, repairs, and preventative measures can prevent minor issues from turning into costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your roof.

At Stonewater Roofing, we recognize the significance of regular roof maintenance and are dedicated to supporting you throughout the process. Our team of experts is equipped with the knowledge and experience to provide professional guidance, comprehensive roof maintenance services, and tailored solutions to meet your specific needs. By partnering with us, you can have peace of mind knowing that your roof will remain in optimal condition, ensuring your home’s safety, security, and aesthetic appeal. To schedule your free damage assessment or just ask a question, don’t hesitate to contact Stonewater Roofing!

10 Questions to Ask Your Roofing Contractor Before Hiring Them