Homeowner’s Checklist for Buying Professional Roofing Services

Having your roof replaced on time is one of the most important things you can do for your comfort and property value. It’s also costly and stressful.

How do you hire the right team of roofers? You start by asking the right questions. Here’s what to dig into before you hire a roofing contractor. 

What to Watch Out for Before You Hire Roofers

You can start your vetting process before you ever get in touch with a contractor:

• Look for certified roofing contractors within the Owens Corning Roofing Contractor Network — the biggest roofing manufacturer in the US. You can rely on these contractors to offer excellent workmanship and customer service, and the Prime Roofing team is proud to call itself a member of the Owens Corning family.
• Your roofing contractor must carry all relevant Florida state and local licenses.
• Your roofing contractor has to have excellent general liability coverage. 

In addition, ensure that you proactively choose your roofing contractor. Don’t let your roofing contractor choose you, especially in areas like Jacksonville, FL, where storm chasers prey on desperate homeowners. 

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor

Asking direct questions helps you decide whether a roofing contractor is right for you — in addition to the answers you seek, you’ll also get a feel for the company’s approach to customer service. Always ask:

• Can you walk me through the installation process and explain how your roofing system works? Reputable roofing contractors will be happy to give you an in-depth overview.
• Will your team carry out a thorough inspection before starting work? The entire roofing system should be inspected before it is replaced.
• Which roofing materials do you use? Owens Corning is a trusted name in the industry.
• Can you install synthetic underlayment? Synthetic underlayment is superior for mold and leak protection compared to felt. 
• Will you install ice and water barriers? The need for these additional protective measures depends on your area, and your contractor should be able to explain whether they are necessary.
• Will your team check for proper ventilation? Roofing contractors should evaluate the existing ventilation system before beginning work, as a lack of ventilation risks damaging shingles and even voiding the warranty.
• Are you familiar and compliant with local building codes? It is best to work with a local contractor intimately familiar with your local building codes.
• Can you describe your insurance coverage? Roofing contractors should carry general liability insurance of $1,000,000 or more.
• Can you explain how the warranty works? Do you offer workmanship and warranty coverage? The contractor should take the time to describe the warranty in detail and explain whom to turn to in the event of loose shingles. 
• Will you give me a written estimate? Reputable roofing contractors will be transparent, and the only acceptable answer is “of course.”
• Can you put me in touch with previous clients? A list of references gives you a better idea of the workmanship and professionalism the contractor can offer and is an invaluable addition to reading online reviews. 

The Prime Roofing team is happy to answer all of these questions — and any others you may have — because we’re proud of our work. In the meantime, you can get an in-depth look at our process and learn what to expect when you opt for a Prime Roof. 

Call us today at (904) 530-1446 for all your roofing in Jacksonville, FL needs.