WHAT TO ASK WHEN REPLACING YOUR ROOF PART 2: ABOUT YOUR ROOF

Whether it’s your first or third time replacing your home’s roof, it’s crucial to find a contractor you can trust. Researching and interviewing are essential when choosing the right roofing contractor for your project.

QUESTIONS TO ASK ABOUT YOUR ROOF BEFORE HIRING A CONTRACTOR

Once you’ve established the basics of each roofing company you’re interviewing, it’s time to grill the roofing sales rep on the company’s standards on the basic roof replacement project. 

Here are just a few questions about your roof to ask each sales rep.

1. Why does my roof need to be replaced and not just repaired? 

Sometimes there’s a simple fix to a single leak. Other times, a roofing contractor will recommend replacing your whole roof. Some factors that indicate you likely need your roof replaced include the following: 

  • Age of the current roofing system

  • Severe storm damage

  • Curled or cracked shingles

  • Mold or moss on shingles

  • Rotting roof decking and/or trusses

Be sure to talk to each rep about specific reasons your roof needs to be replaced. 

2. How does your roofing crew plan to access my roof? 

Depending on your yard’s layout, you may need to move lawn decor or keep gates unlocked in order for professional roofers to complete their tasks more efficiently and stay on schedule. 

3. How long will my roof replacement take?

Many factors come into play in regard to setting and maintaining a solid roof replacement timeline. Just a few include the following: 

  • Weather

  • Availability of materials

  • Ease of access to the building

  • Roofing crew size

  • Equipment used

Because the weather isn’t always a roofer’s best friend, unexpected delays may occur. It’s helpful for you and the roofing company to plan your roof replacement outside of your region’s wet season, but we know that’s not always feasible. Ask your sales rep for the company’s average roof replacement timeline and how their company typically handles rescheduling jobs due to inclement weather.

4. Should I consider reevaluating my roof’s ventilation system now?

One factor that can either hurt or preserve your roof is its ventilation system. Proper ventilation will help prevent stagnant air, in turn reducing the likelihood of mold developing in the spring and summer and ice dams in the winter. The right amount of airflow can drastically contribute to the longevity of a new roof, so it doesn’t hurt to request that be evaluated during your roofing estimate and discussed with your sales consultant. 

Many roofing companies prefer specific ventilation systems over others. At Greenawalt Roofing, we often recommend Air Vent ventilation systems to customers who need to replace their current systems.

5. Can I get a tax credit for replacing my roof?

Homeowners have been taking advantage of energy-efficient appliances and roofing systems for decades. When interviewing a roofing salesperson, it doesn’t hurt to ask about tax credits. While not certified to provide legal advice, a roofing company’s rep should be able to provide insight on tax credits for replacing roofs in your area. 

Also, consider researching options ahead of time in order to prepare for a more productive conversation during the sales rep’s visit.

6. What will my roof replacement cost? 

This is a tricky question, as it’s not uncommon for damage to surface during the roof replacement that was not visible during the initial inspection. Some hidden disasters that can hold up production and alter the end cost of a roof replacement include: 

  • Multiple layers of shingles

  • Improperly installed or damaged flashing

  • Water damage/bad wood

  • Mold damage

  • Termites, carpenter ants, or other pests

Instead of shooting for an exact cost, ask the rep for an estimated price range. Also inquire about the estimated price to fix each hidden holdup and ask how the roofing company handles the fluctuating cost of materials. How long are the costs on the estimate and potential repairs good for from the date you sign?

CHOOSE A CONTRACTOR WHO HAS YOUR BEST INTERESTS IN MIND

When it comes to choosing the right roofing contractor, price isn’t everything. You need to be able to trust the company representative and, in turn, feel comfortable with allowing the company’s crew onto your property. That’s why it’s essential to perform thorough research and conduct interviews before making a final decision.

Greenawalt Roofing Company is happy to accommodate your roofing, gutter, and siding needs. Give us a call or send us a message today to meet with one of our knowledgeable sales consultants.