Here Are 7 More Questions to Ask Your Philadelphia Roofer

There are never too many questions that you can ask a potential roofer. After all, this project is a considerable investment, and you want to ensure that it is done correctly. The quality of installment can impact the overall life of your Philadelphia roof. When hiring a roofing contractor, you want to be sure that you are working with someone you can trust. You want to be confident in their ability and the ability of their construction team. You can ask several helpful questions to get a better idea of the scope of your project and that specific roofer’s ability to handle the project and see it to completion within budget and a set timeframe.

How Long Has Your Company Been in Business?

How long a company has been in business shouldn’t be a determining factor, but it can be a great starting point in discussing your project with your roofer. How long a company has been in business provides you with a base understanding of their quality of work as well as experience. If the company is well known and has been around for quite some time, odds are the work its people have done can speak for itself. You’ll also be able to see more examples of their work. An existing company that is well established and relied on may charge more than other companies. This can directly reflect the level of quality and experience they can provide. However, this doesn’t mean that you should rule out a newer company. You’ll have to do your research and ask further questions to determine the best route forward for you.

Can I Have References?

A quality roofing contractor should provide you with a list of clients and completed projects. This allows you to speak with actual clients about their personal experiences. You can develop your own set of questions, getting a feel for how long their project took to complete and how they felt about the day-to-day work accomplished by the construction crew. This can also provide you with an opportunity to see completed projects for yourself. Many companies can provide you with a portfolio of their work but seeing it in person can give you an idea of the scope of the projects they have tackled in the past.

When Can You Start?

Some roofing projects are more time-sensitive than others. You may have months to spare or be in a time crunch due to excessive roof damage. It is beneficial to get a feel for their current project load and how it could impact your project. Several factors can impact start time, such as the need for permits, materials, and employee availability. If you are looking to have your New Jersey project started as soon as possible, it is helpful to be open with your potential roofing contractor on this topic. They will be able to provide you with a realistic time frame in which their company could start. If this doesn’t meet your needs, you may need to research your options.

What Training and Experience Does the Crew Have?

Crews can be made up of a variety of different experience levels. You want to make sure the company you choose is experienced in your specific material. Not all roofing installation is the same, and many materials require specialized experience. Slate, for example, is heavy roofing material. It needs additional frame support that may require more experience and training than crews familiar with asphalt roofing material have. It is also beneficial to know that everyone is up to date with safety procedures and other necessary training. You can use this question as a jumping board to discuss their certifications and insurance levels.

Who Is My Point of Contact?

Installing a new roof can be a big job, especially if it is part of a more extensive construction process. Therefore, it is important to establish who you will be communicating with throughout the length of the project. An experienced roofing contractor often provides one point of contact. This provides peace of mind because you know exactly who to talk to with any questions or concerns. This also ensures that communication is clear between you and the crew.

How Is Payment Handled?

Roofing contractors in Philadelphia New Jersey all handle payments differently. In most cases, the payments are broken into installments. If a company requires half or more up-front, this can often be a warning sign that they may not have the financial means to complete your project. On the other hand, most reputable companies will have the benefit of capital and inventory, and they may only ask for 10% upfront and divide the rest through the course of the project. Whichever route you decide, what matters most is having a precise final amount and payment schedule established before the project begins.

What Safety Steps Do You Take for Employees and Non-Employees?

Safety is important. Not only for the crew installing your roof but also for any pedestrians or family members who could be near the job site. Roofing material and tools can be dangerous, especially when not properly used or stored. It is helpful to understand all the safety precautions your roofing contractor takes. This can include the movement of materials, tools, and people. You want to invest in a company that takes safety regulations seriously. This demonstrates their level of professionalism and the commitment to do things the right way.

Trusting Your Roofing Contractor

The list of potential questions can go on and on. It is essential to take your time when selecting a roofing contractor. There are several working parts when it comes to roof installation. Finding a contractor you can trust to see the project through allows you to focus on other important tasks. Asking questions is the best way to get a feel for the contractor’s level of professionalism and give you a sense of the professional relationship you’ll be able to build. When it comes to your roof, you want it installed effectively, ensuring that it can last for years to come.