What to Expect When Choosing a Roofing Contractor

You hear a dripping sound that splashes in shallow thunks on your hardwood floor. When you look up, you see brown discoloration spots on your otherwise white ceiling.

You slowly come to the startling realization that you will need extensive roofing repair if you would like to sleep soundly without a bail-out water bucket by your bed.

How can you find a reliable and efficient roofing company? The experts at NOVA Exteriors put together this guide to help you select a roofing specialist who will arrive on time and complete your repairs at a cost-effective price.

When you need roof replacement in Ashburn, VA, call NOVA Exteriors and reap the benefits of our professional roofing services.

Seven Key Things to Look for in a Roofing Contractor

From good reviews to a proven portfolio of work, here are the essential factors to research when choosing your roofing contractor. Putting in the work to find a reputable company ensures that your project will go as smoothly as possible from start to finish.

1. A Good Reputation

Word-of-mouth marketing is the most flattering sales pitch for any business. If you want to work with a roofing company that goes above and beyond for its clients, read the reviews to gauge client satisfaction.

Your local roofing company should have positive reviews spanning back as many years as they have been in operation. Desirable roofing companies will proudly present their client testimonials as accurate first-hand depictions of their services.

To get to know NOVA Exteriors and why Ashburn homeowners choose us for roof repairs and replacement, read our testimonials on our website.

2. Valid Insurance, Bonding, and Licensing

When choosing a reputable company for a roof replacement, Ashburn homeowners should always ask the roofing specialists if they have the proper permits, licenses, and insurance policies.

Working with an insured, bonded, and licensed roofing company is the only way to protect yourself against paying the bill for subpar work.

• Insured roofers: Roof replacement is potentially dangerous work due to frequent ladder climbs and laying down shingles at great heights. You want to make sure that you are not liable if an unfortunate accident happens on your property. Liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance protect you from footing workers’ medical bills and paying for damages to your property.
• Bonded roofers: If your roofing team quits the job and leaves, you will receive a pre-saved fund of money to reimburse your losses.
• Licensed roofers: Licensed workers are typically bonded and insured, and they have to prove their expertise via an exam.

The Three Classifications of Licenses

According to the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation Board of Contractors, there are three different classifications for specialty trade licenses in Virginia:

1. Class A: pass an exam and have five years of experience
2. Class B: pass an exam and have three years of experience
3. Class C: pass an exam and have two years of experience

Licensed roofing companies have the right tools, safety training, and proven roofing experience to complete the job effectively.

Ask any prospective roofing companies which license they hold to get a better sense of their experience.

3. Consistent Communication

When undergoing a massive roof repair, you might have a flood of questions, such as:

• What are the included services in my roofing contract?
• Do my roofing, siding, and windows need replacing?
• How much does an asphalt shingle roof cost?
• What time will the roofing contractor arrive on my property each day?
• What is the current financial information about your roofing company?

A competent roofing contractor will set your mind at ease by providing an on-property point-person to manage your project and answer any resulting questions.

At NOVA Exteriors, we believe that your questions are important, which is why we offer a free in-home consultation and estimate for any potential clients.

4. A Thorough Evaluation Before Work Starts

A reputable roofing contractor should thoroughly inspect your roof and provide a detailed diagnosis before recommending a roof replacement instead of repairs. Ashburn residents should expect an easily understandable written or verbal report filled with data that indicates their roofing issues.

Some contractors will also provide related videos or pictures of the roof damages. Once you understand the issues and the available solutions, you can discuss your budget for the project.

5. High-Quality Materials

A roof replacement should not be a frequent undertaking. Secure your home for years to come with a roof made of high-quality materials that will last.

Depending on the composition of your roof, you will need to invest in new shingles:

• Every 12 to 20 years, for composite shingles
• Every 15 to 30 years, for asphalt shingles
• Every 20 to 25 years, for wood shingles

Regardless of which shingles you choose, a trustworthy roofing company will have a materials warranty available. A materials warranty covers any potential manufacturer defects on your roofing materials. A dependable roofing company will also help you file roofing materials claims, if necessary.

6. Organized with Clear Timelines

Your roofing contractor or day-of point-person should inform you of the times the roofing crew will be working on your home, so you have an opportunity to prepare and move aside any breakable items.

If large sections of your roof have to be removed and tarped, your contractor may advise you to leave your home and stay with a friend or at a hotel while renovations are underway.

If, for any reason, you are not happy with the replacement timeline, communicate with your roofing contractor to better understand the project’s parameters. A reliable roofing contractor will provide organization and clarity to the project.

7. Exemplary Finished Project

If you choose a roofing contractor that takes pride in their work, they will leave your home as spotless as they found it by cleaning up any roofing debris and leftover materials. You should be completely satisfied with your roof replacement before settling your final payment.

Research each roofing company’s website and reviews to see photos of their finished work.

Contact NOVA Exteriors Today

Are you trying to decide upon a home renovation company and roofing contractor for your roof replacement? Contact NOVA Exteriors for your roofing project needs.

NOVA Exteriors has over 25 years of experience in the home renovation industry, and we would be happy to bring our expertise up to your rooftop. Please call NOVA Exteriors at 703-322-1500 for your free estimate for roof replacement today.

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