Roofing Companies Pittsburgh PA

Questions to ask your Roofing Contractor

It can be difficult to choose a roofing contractor. It is possible that your roof is leaking or damaged. To find a reliable roofing contractor in your area, you will need to research all available options. It is possible that you don't know the qualities that make a contractor reputable or good, especially if it's your first-time homeowner or you have never used one.

Here are 12 questions you should ask potential roofing contractors before you sign the contract.

1. DO YOU HAVE A ROOFING CONTRACTOR LICENSE?

Many states require roofers to have a license to work. However, laws and requirements vary from one state to the next. Knowing your local code requirements can help you to make informed decisions. It will be easy to know if you are working with a roofing companies pittsburgh pa that will adhere to your state's regulations. You will be able to contact legal counsel if the work goes wrong if you know whether they are licensed and whether that license is still current.

2. ARE YOU INSURED BY WORKMAN'S COMPENSATION INSURANCE?

It's a good idea for roofing companies to ask about workman's comp insurance. While contractors might choose to not have insurance, they could be held responsible for any injuries that occur on their property. You should ensure that the roofing contractor you choose has workman's comp insurance.

3. Are you covered for general liability?

Although the roofers are covered by workman's comp insurance while they are on your property you should still be concerned about any damage to your real property that may result from the work. To ensure that your roofer is covered by general liability insurance, request a copy of the certificate of insurance. This guarantees that you won't be held responsible for damage to your house, roof, or property caused by another person.

4. DO YOU CONTACT SUBCONTRACTORS TO ROOF?

Some contractors delegate roofing work to subcontractors. You should check to see if subcontractors are employed and whether workers' compensation or general liability insurance is in place. Lien waivers could be an option, which can protect you in the event that the contractor fails to pay subcontractors.

5. Is it possible to remove my old roof?

Before shingling over your roof, it is common for roofers to inspect the roof. Soft or rotten areas will be missed by visual inspections. If they aren't noticed, they can only make your roof more difficult in the future. To ensure that all faults are identified and addressed before a new roof can be installed, it is important to remove the old one.

6. WILL YOU INCLUDE DRIP EDGE/EDGE METAL IN THE INSTALLATION OF MY NEW ROOF?

Drip edge or edge metal is small pieces of aluminum that reach off the roof below the shingle. This directs rainwater into gutters and not behind them. It saves roof fascia and wood. This is something that some roofers won't install unless they are specifically asked.

7. WOULD YOU PROTECT THE GUTTERS WITH LADDER STABILIZERS DURING ROOF INSTALLATION?

It's easy to forget how roofers will access your roof when you're looking for a new roof. But it is crucial for the safety and security of your gutters. Stabilizers and standoffs will help keep your gutters safe while you have your roof replaced. Ask the roofing company if they use standoffs or ladder stabilizers, and if so, how they intend to protect your gutters. They won't be able to answer your questions, so they are probably not the right contractor.

8. DO YOU BRING A CONTAINER TO REFUSE MATERIALS?

A lot of trash is generated by replacing a roof. This includes old plywood, nails, and drip edge. The service should not require you to provide a container or to deal with the trash once it is finished. Anyone who takes care of your roof should bring their container to the Jobsite to dispose of the refuse.

9. Do you have a physical address and a PHONE number? Are you able to live in the area?

You should verify that the roofing contractor you are considering hiring has a physical address. A P.O. box is a bad way to run a business. Boxes are usually red flags. Always ask for their physical address as well as their phone number, and their full name. To determine if they are local, it is a good idea for them to have this information.

In search of work, roofers might travel to hurricane-prone regions like Florida. But what if they aren't local? What if you have issues with your roof after the job is done? If they're from another state or city, they may not be able to resolve any issues or concerns.

10. HOW LONG DOES MY NEW ROOF COME WITH A WARRANTY?

Shingles cost the same as older shingles but last much longer. Shingles should last for at least 25 years. Ask about the guarantee period. Any less than a 25-year warranty should be taken with a grain.

11. WHAT IS THE PRICE OF PLYWOOD IF YOU FIND A SOFT ROOF DECKING OR ROTTEN ROOF?

This can be a surprise to homeowners as some roofers are not honest and may not include it in their agreement. You should know up front how much the plywood will cost if the roofer decides to replace it. To get the best price, ask for a dollar value per plywood sheet.

12. Is there someone available to answer my questions during the work?

Imagine returning home one afternoon from work to find that your roofers have left a hole in your roof. They are now loading up their trucks and heading for the next job. It's important to find out if the roofers will cover the hole before you go. But who do you contact? You should find out the name of the project manager before work starts. This will allow you to direct any questions or complaints to them, rather than the group, which may or not have one.