How To Choose the Right Roofing Contractor?

Choosing northern Virginia roofers for a roof repair or installation can be challenging. A new metal roof installation or shingle repair can be expensive, and you need a reputable roofing company that delivers maximum value for money.

As a trusted roofing contractor, NOVA Exteriors has provided northern Virginia homeowners with reliable roofing services for decades. Let us put our experience to work for you! In this guide, our team at NOVA Exteriors shares ten tips you can follow to ensure that you hire the right roofing contractor for your home improvement project.

1. Use Referrals and Consumer Sites

Ask your neighbors, friends, and family members if they can recommend a local business. If someone you know had a roof installed with a professional contractor who provided high-quality materials and top-notch customer service, consider calling this same contractor.

You can also ask your social media contacts following for recommendations. However, you should only consider recommendations from people who have used a contractor’s services.

Consumer sites like Angie’s List and HomeAdvisor are valuable sources of roofer reviews. Look for businesses that received four- and five-star reviews from previous clients.

2. Request Three or More Quotes

Make a list of at least three roofing contractors with favorable recommendations, then contact them and ask them for quotes. Ideally, each contractor you contact should visit your property and inspect your site before giving you an estimate.

Once you receive several quotes, you might want to choose the lowest estimate and schedule the roof repair or installation. However, price should not be your only consideration. In many cases, roofers who charge a premium install durable roof systems with longer lifespans, saving you costs over the long run.

3. Ask About Licenses and Insurance

Northern Virginia roofers must carry state-issued contractor licenses. To qualify for this specialty trade license by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, a roofing contractor must have at least two years of experience in roof repairs and installations.

The roofing contractor you hire must carry general liability insurance to compensate you in the event of a personal injury or property damage. Employers’ liability insurance compensates workers who suffer an injury on your property during the roofing project.

4. Consider Past Work and Client Testimonials

Ask the roofing contractor if you can see a portfolio of their past work. Most reputable contractors keep project descriptions, high-resolution images, and client testimonials on file. These portfolios give you a clear idea of what to expect when working with a specific contractor.

If possible, ask the contractor if they can give you the contact details of previous clients. Someone who previously worked with a roofing business might provide valuable insights into the service and material quality.

5. Ask About Manufacturer Warranties

Ask the roofing companies if they offer any warranties. You should only consider northern Virginia roofers who offer:

• A standard manufacturer warranty: This written guarantee covers the roofing materials and any other products you buy as part of the roofing project.
• A workmanship warranty: Contactors offer these warranties to protect property owners against subpar installations.

Some roofers might offer an extended manufacturer warranty covering workmanship and some materials.

6. Work with an Authorized Installer

Do you want to install metal roofing, or do you want to replace your existing material with a specific type of asphalt shingle? The roofing contractor you choose should be an authorized installer and preferred partner of the roofing material manufacturer.

Choosing an authorized installer is crucial as the manufacturer might provide installation training for contractors, ensuring optimal results. You can also expect an authorized installer to honor the manufacturer’s warranty.

If you are unsure which roofing material to install, a roofing company may recommend materials it has the authority to supply and install.

7. Schedule a Site Visit

What can you expect from a roofer during your roof installation or repair project? Scheduling a site visit where the team is currently working can be insightful. Pay attention to material quality and the coordination between team members. Unnecessary downtime and communication issues can result in project delays and other issues.

A site visit can also help you plan your project. You might notice a roofing component or installation step that you didn’t consider in your planning. During the site visit, make a list of questions to ask the contractor.

8. Pay Attention to Material Quality

During the initial site inspection and consultation, ask the roofer about the quality of the roofing materials they supply and install. Research the manufacturer to find out if it is a respectable U.S.-based company with a reputation for producing high-end products and materials. You can also research the materials’ ratings for longevity and durability.

An experienced roofer might discuss your budget and recommend low-cost materials to make the project more affordable. Make sure that these materials are durable and resistant to harsh elements.

9. Discuss the Project Process

Leading roofers follow a proven process during a roof repair, replacement, or installation. Establishing a workflow before the project streamlines the process, saving valuable time and costs.

In most cases, a roof replacement process will include the following steps:

• Initial roof deck and material inspection
• Roofing material selection
• Old roofing material removal
• Roof deck preparation and reinforcement
• Vent and flashing installation
• Starter shingle installation
• Replacement shingle installation
• Ridge vent installation
• Final inspection and clean-up

During the consultation phase, ask the contractor how their process works, and make sure that the process fits your project expectations.

10. Get Agreements in Writing

Never work with a contractor unwilling to draw up a written agreement. The project agreement should outline every aspect of the project, including:

• Applicable warranties
• Brand name and description of the roofing materials
• Square footage that the project covers
• Project timeline
• Measures to protect your home during installation
• Payment terms and conditions
• Change order handling and pricing

The agreement should also state who is responsible for obtaining the necessary permits and cleaning the property.

Trust NOVA Exteriors with Your Roof Replacement or Repair

At NOVA Exteriors, we are a leading team of northern Virginia roofers. Call us at (703) 322-1500 to schedule a professional roof installation or repair.

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