Things to Look for in a Qualified Roofing Contractor

When you need a new roof, finding the best contractor for your needs can feel overwhelming. While locating a roofer is easy, choosing a trustworthy one takes diligence. You’ve probably heard of homeowners who signed a contract quickly only to get a subpar roofing installation. That won’t be you if you do the work upfront to find a top-tier roof installer. 

Your roof is a vital element to your home’s protection. And there are two crucial ingredients to its long-term performance—exceptional materials and detailed installation. Miss one of these, and you’ll wish you had been more diligent in your search.  

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor

1. Are you licensed and insured?

When interviewing various roofing contractors before making the decision of which to hire, start with this question. If the company isn’t licensed in your state, they won’t be up on local codes. If they aren’t insured, then in the unlikely event that someone were to get injured on your property during your roof installation, you would be responsible rather than them. These are pretty steep consequences, so make sure the roofer you hire is licensed and insured. 

2. Where is your office located? 

It’s vital that you hire a roofing contractor who is local. They should have a physical address and phone number with a local area code. This safeguards you in the event there is a problem after the installation. It also ensures local codes are adhered to. 

3. Will you create an itemized estimate? 

Reaching out to at least three contractors is vital to the success of your quest for a quality roofer. Once you have them come to your home to inspect your current roof, they should create a comprehensive estimate for you. There should be easy-to-understand line items on each, and they should include the same basic components. Read the fine print to make sure there are no hidden fees. Warranty information is a vital element on your estimate, and your roofing materials should be listed as well. 

4. May I have a few references for your previous, recent work? 

Ask for references of work the contractor completed in the last 6 months so you know what you’re getting. It’s so helpful to see the work a contractor recently finished. You’ll be able to visualize your new roof and get a taste of their level of expertise. Your roof is a significant investment, so don’t settle for anything but the best when it comes to who you have install it. 

Consider asking the homeowners questions about their experience with the roofer. Find out how any unexpected situations that arose were handled. Ask about the communication level, and ensure their satisfaction with the results. 

5. Can you tell me about your warranties?

Your roofing contractor should offer a workmanship warranty, and you should receive a manufacturer’s warranty as well. The contractor you hire should be able to explain what you should do in case a problem arises and you need to fall back on either of your warranties. Ask about the process of resolving an issue with the product or installation. 

6. Do you check for adequate ventilation? 

The contractor you hire should check your attic’s ventilation to determine if it’s adequate or not. Your home’s ability to breathe has a direct impact on the life expectancy of your new roof. Improper ventilation can cause shingles to become damaged and can lead to unhealthy mold issues. If your home needs more, ask if the roofer can install it. 

7.  Can you tell me about the materials you install and their benefits?

Most reputable contractors will install industry-leading roofing materials. At Lutgen Companies, we test most products we install on our own homes before recommending them to you. This demonstrates our commitment to firsthand experience and quality assurance. We use only premium roofing materials, backed by industry-leading warranties to ensure the longevity and durability of your roof. We install high performance, ensuring you get the exceptional results you deserve. 

8. Do you help with shingle style and color choice? 

There are a variety of shingle styles and colors to choose from, so getting guidance from your roofing contractor can be very beneficial and speed up the selection process. Ask about impact-resistant shingles, and find out their resilience against high winds, snow, ice, and other harsh weather elements we experience in Minnesota. 

Once you pick a shingle color, get a sample of it and place it outside your home to see how it complements your siding and landscaping at different times of day with different amounts of natural light. 

9. When can my project be scheduled, and how long will it take?

An excellent contractor may not be available right away, but should be able to schedule your upgrade in a reasonable amount of time. Ask about their policy in case of bad weather, and what you should expect. 

10. What type of payment schedule do you have?

Make sure the payment schedule is in writing, and never pay in full for a roof in advance. If someone asks for the full payment before beginning the work, that’s a red flag. Also, consider asking about financing. 

Get a Gorgeous New Roof Installed by Our Experienced Team

Don’t settle for subpar roof installation that could wear out early or leave your home vulnerable to costly leaks. Get premium roofing materials and installation from our expert team of installers. At Lutgen Companies, we are a GAF Master Elite Contractor, and only 2% of roofing contractors in America are awarded that status. 

We diagnose your roof issues; help with color, design and style; and create and estimate within two hours of our first appointment with you. Our hands-on approach to selecting all materials adds a trustworthy, personalized touch to your remodel. Learn more about how our roofing services can enhance your curb appeal and safeguard your home from the Minnesota climate.