Be Prepared with Specific Inquiries About Roofing Services, Workmanship, and Practices
Most people will only replace their home’s roof once or twice in their lifetime, which tends to mean most are inexperienced when it comes to working with roofing companies. But any time you’re working with a construction company, it’s up to you to ask the important questions to fill in the blanks of what you don’t already know about the process or policies.
Consider asking these questions of any roofing service providers you’re considering so you can make an informed decision.
How Do You Know I Need a New Roof?
If any roofing company tells you that you need a roof replacement, always ask them for proof of damage or wear. A roofing inspection should be completed to provide this information, and you should always feel comfortable that you aren’t being taken for a ride by a less-than-scrupulous company.
How Long Has Your Roofing Service Been in Business, and Who Owns It?
A roofing company can be fairly new and still be a good choice to hire. But experienced roofing companies can provide more accurate cost estimates, know the ins-and-outs of the business, and have walked the walk and talked the talk with homeowner’s insurance companies.
And when it comes to ownership, you should be happy to see that the company is locally-owned by a family or individual, not by a massive corporation with major overhead that they pass on to you in the form of expensive labor and materials mark-ups. The owner’s character is key – so be sure that your line of questions include their mission and vision for their company.
Are There Any Residential Roofing Jobs You’ve Completed Nearby That I Can Go See?
If “a picture is worth a thousand words,” then seeing the real deal in person is priceless. Ask the roofing companies you interview whether you can see their completed work anywhere in your city – and then absolutely go see it.
But don’t skip their online portfolio. Review their before-and-after photos, and read through their project explanations to learn more about how they operate and the materials they use.
Who Will Be Installing My New Roof?
Roofing companies in Kansas City should ensure their roof installers are trained and undergo continuing education. The best roofing companies review your project specifications and ensure their installation team has confirmed the material and details of your new roof. Roof installers should undergo training to ensure they meet state, county, city, and manufacturer code for installation.
Have You Completed Training from the Roofing Materials Manufacturer?
Major roofing materials companies like CertainTeed and Haag provide professional training to teach roof installers how to correctly work with their materials for best results.
Your roofing company should hold certifications from at least one roofing materials manufacturer, if not more.
When Can You Schedule My Job, and How Long Will the Project Take?
Project scheduling and timelines can vary, depending on how busy the roofing company is, how accessible materials are, and the size of the project.
Keeping this in mind, it’s important that you ask when the work will be completed. Otherwise, you may find yourself waiting a year for a new roof that you desperately need.
Are You Licensed and Insured to Provide Roofing Services?
The roofing company you hire should be licensed to operate in your state and carry insurance. Ask to see both documents; they should provide them without a fuss.
Do I Need a Building Permit for My Roof? Will Your Company Get the Permit as Part of Your Roofing Services?
Ensure your roofing project adheres to city code by asking about building permits for your roofing project. Be perfectly clear about who is responsible for obtaining any necessary permits so your project isn’t delayed.
How Do I Know You Can Help Me With My Needs on My Project?
The best roofing companies take a consultative approach to your roofing and exterior construction needs. They do their own inspection of your project, complete with photos, and then sit down and go over the findings with you. Professional roofing companies know they need to ask you questions to see if you both are a good fit for the project.
Will You Tear Off the Roof Underlayment for a Deck Inspection?
Certain warranties are only available if your roof gets fully removed, and the wood is inspected underneath your shingles. The best roof systems are installed over a fully-nailable deck surface that has been inspected. Experienced roofing companies, like Vision Construction, are happy to share their roofing process with you, which should include a deck inspection.
Does Your Work and Products You’re Installing Come with a Warranty?
The answer should be “yes” to both. As a follow-up question, ask when you’ll receive the written warranties, and keep those documents in a safe place.
How Do I Pay for My New Roof?
A reputable roofing company can work professionally with your homeowner’s insurance claim for replacing your storm-damaged roof. Just be sure to call the roofing company for a roof inspection first, before calling your insurance company to ensure nothing is missed.
Never pay “upfront” for your new roof. A professional roofing company would not be asking for money upfront to pay for material, permits, or to hold your place in line. There are plenty of reputable roofing companies that are set up to provide service before you pay. And if a roofing company tells you that you do not have to pay your deductible or offers to “waive” it, be aware that this is an attempt to commit insurance fraud on your behalf.
Vision Construction Is Ready to Answer the Hard Questions
We know that it’s frustrating and sometimes anxiety-inducing to shop around for a roof replacement or to try to find a company you can trust. But when you work with Vision Construction, you can relax and trust our process. We’ve even had some of our customers tell us they actually enjoyed getting their new roof!
If you’re considering our roofing company in Kansas, go ahead and give us a call to schedule your free 21-point roof inspection, and ask us as many questions as you need to to feel safe and secure in choosing Vision Construction.