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Finding a roofing contractor is no problem. Finding the right roofing contractor may be another story.

Replacing a roof is one of the most expensive projects a homeowner may have to. But if you happen to be in the path of a severe hail storm you may not have a choice. Hail storms cause millions of dollars in damage to homes across America every year. Often wind and hail causes enough damage to a roof that the homeowner is forced to replace their roof immediately due to water entering the structure. When this happens having to replace the roof becomes unavoidable and the search for a roofing contractor is necessary. But how do you go about finding a contractor that you feel comfortable with and one that you can trust?

Local Roofers

First, find a local roofing contractor. You want to make sure the contractor you use local. Most any roofing contractor is able to replace your roof today. But you want to make sure that the company you go with is going to be there next week, next month, and a year from now just in case you have problems with your roof down the road. Using an out-of-town contractor often leads to the contractor disappearing all together when you need him or at best makes it hard to get him back to do the repairs.

Roofing Referrals

Secondly, get referrals. Find a contractor that has a proven track record. Use a contractor a friend or relative can vouch for. Local roofing supply houses can often refer trustworthy contractors that they may use themselves. Choose a contractor who has longevity in the community and list of references? Use one who knows the local roofing and building codes. Use careful research in looking for a contractor and don’t feel pressured by roofing salesmen who want you to sign a contract on the spot.

Signed Contract

Third, make sure you get a contract signed by the contractor clearly stating what your expectations of the roofing project will be and what the contractor expects from you. Clean-up and haul-off of old material, along with any extras you may agree on should be clearly stated in the contract. Be sure it is in writing with a total dollar figure for the entire project. Also, make sure you get a warranty for the roofing product that is used and the labor.

Fourth, ask your potential contractors the questions that are important to you. Here are some things you might want to ask them about. Do you have comprehensive liability insurance? If you are in a state that requires roofing contractors to be licensed then that will be important to you. What are my roofing product choices? How long have you been in business? What are your payment terms? These are just a few questions you may want to ask.

Lastly, do a walk-around inspection with your contractor. It’s easier to take care of anything that is overlooked at this time than to have to set an appointment for a later time.

 

 

 

 

 

Roofing: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly

Go ahead and make my day, show me the good, the bad, and the ugly side of roofing. Why does everything sound like a Clint Eastwood movie? Let’s throw down the gauntlet and talk a little bit about some tips on roofing. After all, you don’t want to be the rookie when someone asks you about your opinion on a roofing matter.

Good Roofing

“The good” side of roofing is having a qualified roofing contractor with a proven track record with happy customers in your local area like roofing midland tx. A good roofing contractor will not high pressure you into a quick sale. He or she will listen to your roofing needs and show you your options. It doesn’t take J. Edgar to find a good roofing contractor. A little research will lead you to the right contractor. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. It’s not a perfect world out there so you have to be careful or you might end up on heartbreak ridge.

Bad Roofing

“The bad” side of roofing is finding out after your roof has already been installed that for a few dollars more you could have upgraded to a much better shingle. Upgrading from a 25 year 3-tab shingle to a 30 year architectural shingle is relatively inexpensive due to the fact that in most cases you are only paying for the difference in the material. The labor remains the same cost. The difference is in the aesthetics, warranty, and cost. Some homeowners that chose not to upgrade to the much better shingle, later felt that they had thrown away a fistful of dollars.

Ugly Roofing

“The ugly” side of roofing is what happens when a DIY roofer fails to heed the safety rules of roofing. The DIY roofer should always use a sturdy ladder when getting on any roof.  Whatever you do don’t fall…  you will feel the sudden impact. A ladder that is not planted on solid level ground and not safety strapped to the house can take you for a ride Bronco Billy. Make sure you have confidence to walk on a roof. If you are fearful and it is like walking a tightrope for you, you should let a professional handle the job.

Roofing is not like sitting at a desk. Be prepared to get your clothes soiled and your hands filthy. At the end of the day you may feel like dirty harry. And when you get home, don’t dare go in the house until you’ve cleaned up… your wife will turn you every which way but loose. You’ll probably have to get out of those dirty clothes in the garage, and until you’ve had a shower your wife will probably make you feel unloved and unforgiven.

How many Clint Eastwood movies can you find in this article? Here’s the list:

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly; The Gauntlet; The Rookie; J. Edgar; A Perfect World; Heartbreak Ridge; A Few Dollars More; A Fistful of Dollars; Sudden Impact; Bronco Billy; Tightrope; Dirty Harry; Every Which Way But Loose; Unforgiven;