It is evident that as the years have gone by, it has gotten difficult for potential roofing clients to know the difference between an excellent roofing contractor and a not so excellent one. Roofing technology has become part of the driving force to implement high-quality products, high labor cost, quick turnarounds, and the hiring of extremely unqualified roofing technicians to get projects done regardless of their size.
Thus creating the need to ask: how do I find a great roofing contractor? What steps are necessary to do so? Where do I hire her or him? To engage in a search for a great roofing contractor, one must perform a series of tasks such as due diligence, project planning, and talking with the local roofing companies to find out if there is an educated way to find a qualified contractor. Who keeps contractors accountable for their work, their fees, etc.?
Due Diligence
According to Merriam-Webster due diligence is “the research and analysis of a company or organization done in preparation for a business transaction -due diligence has extended its reach into business contexts, signifying the research a company performs before engaging in a financial transaction.”
In most cases, clients are advised to perform their due diligence when it comes to making a large purchase, such as a home or a business, but this concept transfers to the importance of finding a highly qualified contractor to work on your home. Due Diligence is the research of the performance of your new roofing company, roof contractor and their crews. It is crucial to have a crystal clear picture of what the task entails before signing any documents to proceed to a roof renovation.
Most roofing contractors are members of some association or another such as GAF that vouches for their work performance, their work ethics, and reputation. Companies like GAF have a list of qualified contractors that have been certified to perform their best. Another side of due diligence is the legal aspects that are required by the project on hand. Insurance, building permits, building codes and such are a real part of due diligence when looking at hiring a contractor.
Create a plan
It is often a task that requires tedious and meticulous work. Whether it is a roof replacement, roof repair or roof renovation; you want to create a small core team that can help you plan your project. Building a core team with your spouse and a handful of professionals will lead you into a successful project. Talking to companies such as West Pro Roofing can help you look into putting a core team together that will guide you through the process of planning and executing your next roofing project. A detailed plan will help in the choosing of a great roofing contractor since it can serve as a guide of what is needed to get all the minor and major components. Remember that planning will help you establish goals, procedures, and execution to have your roofing project go smoothly. A developed plan will serve as a guide to whoever becomes a participant of your project, and it will allow you to be in control of decision-making even in the most minute details.
Finding a roofing contractor isn’t an out-of-this-world task but coming across one that fits your project may be. As much as there are roofing contractors in every corner nowadays; there are some contractors experienced enough to handle the given task, and this is why we recommend contacting agencies like GAF to guide you in your search for the right roofing contractor. Once your due diligence is taken care of, you can jump into searching high and low for the best contractor in the industry. Remember that everything comes with a price, meaning that if you find an inexperienced roofing contractor, it may end up costing more than hiring an experienced one.
[cta]We can not be any clearer when emphasizing taking the proper steps to take care of due diligence, to avoid headaches or even lawsuits. Planning and becoming educated with the subject of roof renovation will save you from a series of events that can lead you to a bad experience. Part of that planning is becoming familiar with the kinds of materials necessary to repair, maintain or replace your roof. Along with the roof, there are other elements such as shingles, gutters, insulation, etc. that one must consider when preparing for a significant roofing project.
Let’s take a moment to explore the different types of roofing materials out there to restore, repair or replace your roof. For instance, when it comes to shingles, there isn’t anyone in the market with such an excellent reputation as GAF Designer Roofing Shingles ranging from the sophisticated looks of the Camelot Aged Oak to the beauty and high quality of the Timberline Ultra HD shingles. Considering the best products for your roof is one of the critical steps you can take toward a successful project. Another element to include in the list of products needed for your project is high-quality gutters.
Gutters are part of a roof that is essential to shedding water away from the main structure during rainstorms.
Among many great roofing products is the Asphalt Shingles. They are long-lasting, affordable, and easy to deal with them. If a budget limits your project; then these kind of shingles are a great choice. When you are ready to begin your due diligence, one great resource is Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association. A.R.M.A. which is rich in information and guides to help you walk through your roofing project with ease, and without a doubt.
In this article, West Pro Roofing is hoping to provide enough information to share with you to become educated in the necessary steps to find a great contractor, and the resources to accomplish your roofing project seamlessly and promptly. Give us a call to speak to one of our representatives or visit our website for more information on our services and rates.
Building Codes
Building codes are an essential component when carrying out a roofing project whether residential or commercial. When one hears the words “building codes” they bring a negative tone or thought. When in reality, building codes were created to bring boundaries and regulations in maintaining the safety of a building, keeping people clear from harm. Now, that’s a positive thought and image of codes! The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) says this: “Building codes are sets of regulations that address structural integrity, fire resistance, safe exits, lighting, ventilation, and construction materials. They specify the minimum requirements to safeguard the health, safety, and general welfare of building occupants.”
We recommend looking deeper into the significance of building codes, especially those that pertain to your roofing project. Another great resource to bring to attention is The International Code Council (ICC). As you work on your due diligence, you can research the ICC’s site codes regarding roofing. Also, they have an intensive assortment of guides and information that can benefit your education on roofing and building codes. Next time you hear the words “building codes” don’t flinch! Instead, embrace the topic and see how they can help you to create a safe environment for your loved ones as you spearhead your roofing project.
So far we have talked about Due Diligence, contractors, roofing materials, resources, and building codes. But what about repairing and refurbishing roofs? Let’s take a moment to address some of the basics steps to fix your roof whether it is a DIY or you are looking for a company to do the repairs. We know that some issues could be simple to find, but the reality is that the most simple matters can lead to a more significant problem that needs the eye of an expert.
For the most part, roofing inspection isn’t a problem to homeowners or experienced roofers. One can inspect a roof superficially and come up with a good idea if it has some noticeable damage, debris in the gutters impeding the flow of water, shingles coming off or cracking, etc. This kind of inspection is merely on the surface, and almost anyone can do it. Take precautions if you are climbing a ladder or are going to be walking on your roof. Although this is a simple task, it also takes a degree of safety and common sense; be safe and don’t forget to wear a helmet or gloves if necessary.
DIY is one approach we recommend if you have a small budget and can’t afford to pay a roof inspector to do a partial scan of your roofline. But nothing replaces the experienced hand of a roofing inspector scanning your roof and structure. He or she will be able to tell you what is needed if the integrity of your roof is compromised or in need of a complete replacement. There are times when the restoration is needed and not a total replacement, and for this, a roofing inspector can come in handy along with a contractor to guide you in the steps to understand a particular situation or issue with your roof.
No Short Cuts
It is almost tempting to be creative which can turn into cutting corners. The risk involved in not proceeding with regulations and building codes can be a stumbling block to your project and possibly even fines from city officials. Why is this worth mentioning? Well, there are too many stories of folks that have tried to do their project without permits, and with unqualified contractors that aren’t kept accountable, so they do whatever they want. We know that this situation can end up in a court of law; making your building plans challenging to do. Become aware of the local laws that protect you and the contractor. It’s always a good idea to have legal contracts that will ensure no one is cutting corners. As we mentioned earlier, we are in an area of high demand and this demand can easily persuade contractors, inspectors, and roofing companies to come up with quick results; results that many times don’t stick when one cuts corners.
Let’s recap
To find a great roofing contractor to ensure a successful roofing project, you must prepare yourself. Preparation involves many hours of research and planning. Planning requires your due diligence which helps you align all the necessary elements and resources to not only find a comparable contractor but confidently engage with factors such as getting to know roofing material like shingles of all types. Local city Building codes are also a subject that one must become very familiar with even if they look intimidating.
There is no absolute in what you can do while planning your roofing project; preparing a well-thought-out plan is the most crucial step you can take. One can say that if there is no plan, there is no project; no matter what kind of project. Resources such as GAF, West Pro Roofing or ARMA can guide you in preparing for your next roof renovation or replacement, finding a great contractor. Most importantly, there is no room or need to cut corners. The reason why you are spending all of your time preparing to find a great contractor and roofing company is to have a satisfying project, one that looks great and meets all the legal prerequisites that the city has created to ensure the safety of your loved ones and occupants of the building your refurbishing.
Remember, do your due diligence before setting out to look for a roofing contractor. The rest will follow along with the plan you have made which everyone involved will appreciate. If there are any doubts or you are in need of an experienced voice to guide you through this process, call West Pro Roofing. Our experienced staff is here available to answer your questions and ready to give you a helping hand.
Happy Roofing!