3 Tough Roofing Questions And How To Ask Them
When you’re looking for roofing repair, you’ll inevitably have some tough questions for potential contractors. How do I know if I need a new roof? What are the different types of roofing materials? How much does it cost to install a new roof? We understand that making such an important decision can be difficult, so we’ve put together this list of the 3 toughest roofing questions and how to ask them.
Roof Plan Or Roof Scam?
First off, when contractors talk about a roof plan, how are you supposed to know whether or not it’s actually just a roof scam? In other words, is “roof plan” just a code word amongst contractors for endless invoices for years to come?
Before we get into what questions to ask, we need to reinforce that a roof plan (as long as it’s handled professionally) is a legitimate way for your contractor to provide you with an estimate of the work that needs to be done. But how are you supposed to find out whether or not your contractor is on the level (no pun intended)?
As a good rule of thumb, you should start asking questions BEFORE you receive an estimate. Here are some you can use:
- What type of roof do I have?
- How old is my roof?
- Do I need a new roof?
- What are the different types of roofing materials?
- How much does it cost to install a new roof?
If a potential contractor doesn’t have quick answers to the above, you should put on the brakes. That’s a red flag – make sure you don’t start working with a company until it’s clear that they’re able to answer your baseline questions.
Could I Install My Own Roof? Why Are Contractors Necessary?
You might be wondering if roofing is such a necessary home improvement, why can’t I just do it myself? After all, there are plenty of YouTube videos and blog posts that show you how to do it… right?
Well, the truth is that while you CAN install your own roof. But we don’t recommend it! Not only is roofing installation an incredibly dangerous job (falls from roofs are one of the leading causes of construction worker fatalities), but it’s also a job that requires a significant amount of experience.
Unless you have years of experience in the roofing industry (or know someone who does), we recommend leaving it to the professionals. Not only will they get the job done quickly and efficiently, but they’ll also be able to identify any potential problems with your roof and make the necessary repairs.
That said, your contractor should be able to rattle off all of the above without blinking. We’re used to answering this question – if the company you’re discussing your project with doesn’t know how to answer this very common question, it’s another potential red flag. Ask how many years of experience the crew has, and if you don’t like the answer, hire a company with decades of experience.
How Much Will It Cost To Fix My Roof?
This is probably the most hesitant question we get from homeowners – and unfortunately, it’s not an easy one to answer without an on-site inspection. The cost of roofing repair or replacement can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including:
- the type of roof you have.
- the age of your roof.
- the extent of the damage.
- the location of your home.
There are a lot of variables that go into determining the total cost of a roofing project. That’s why we always recommend pushing back with questions to make sure the answers you’re getting make sense. And NEVER accept a quote, site unseen or at the very least undiscussed. That’s a recipe for disappointment.
While the cost of roofing repair or replacement can be significant, it’s important to remember that your roof is one of the most important components of your home. But that does not mean you’re expected to blindly take the first quote sent your way. Investing in a high-quality roof now will save you money down the road, and taking the time to ask tough questions before you begin will ensure that investment’s long-term success.
We hope this article has helped you feel more prepared to tackle your roofing project. Remember, if you have any doubts, it’s always best to ask more questions than less. Pay attention to the answers you’re receiving, and trust your gut when those answers don’t sound quite right.
If you’re ready for a new roof, Michiana’s best roofing company is here for you! We use top-of-the-line products and have over 75 years of expert experience in roofing. Don’t hesitate to let us know if there’s anything we can do to help with your roofing needs! Contact us for a free estimate at ClaytonHoover.com/roofing.
