Planning a roofing project can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can make the process smoother and stress-free. Whether it’s a minor repair or a full roof replacement, here’s a simple guide to help you plan your roofing project like a pro.
1. Assess Your Roof’s Condition
Start by evaluating the current state of your roof. Look for obvious signs like missing shingles, leaks, or sagging areas. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to schedule a professional inspection. This helps identify underlying issues before they get worse.
2. Understand What the Project Will Cost
Before diving into a roofing project, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the potential costs involved. Start by getting estimates from a few reputable contractors to get a sense of pricing. Keep in mind that the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Roofing costs can vary depending on factors like materials, roof size, and the complexity of the job. Make sure your contractor provides a detailed breakdown so you know what you’re paying for. This will include labor, materials, removal of old roofing, and any additional repairs. Also, set aside a little extra in case unexpected issues come up during the project. Planning for costs upfront helps prevent financial surprises later on.
3. Choose the Right Materials
Selecting the right roofing material is a critical part of your project, as it affects both the appearance and long-term performance of your roof. You’ll want to consider factors like durability, cost, and climate. Asphalt shingles are the most popular and budget-friendly choice, but if you’re looking for something more durable or with a longer lifespan, materials like metal, tile, or slate might be worth the investment. Each type of material has its pros and cons, so think about what matters most to you—whether it’s low maintenance, energy efficiency, or aesthetics. Talk to your contractor about what materials will work best for your home and your specific needs.
4. Research Contractors
Finding the right contractor is key. Before you call several roofing companies for an estimate, you should have a list of top questions to ask each roofing company. The answers they give will help you narrow down your choices. Check for the following:
Insurance
Always ask the roofer for a certificate to prove they have current general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. You have the right to ask for insurance certificates and you can call the insurance carrier to verify their validity.
Permanence
You want to choose a professional roofing contractor has an established business and reputation in the community. The warranty on the installation is only as good as the longevity of the roofing company. Choose a roofing contractor that has been around for a number of years and has a good track record.
References
Make sure that the professional roofing contractors have an established business and reputation in the community.:
- Ask around: your friends and family, neighbors, and business owners in your area.
- Read the contractor’s online reviews on sites such as Yelp and Angie’s List.
- Go to the Better Business Bureau site to check the contractor’s ratings and any complaints filed against them.
- Check out their website. Be sure it is up-to-date and read their customers’ testimonials. Look for a portfolio of their work and see if they have dealt with your type of roofing problem before.
Warranties
Even if a roofing company can guarantee that the job will be done right the first time, be sure that the company warranties not only the roofing materials, but the installation. This way you can rest assured that the entire project will be covered should a defect or other issue arise in the future. GAF-certified roofers offer you the most warranty choices for your new roof. Additionally, GAF warranties are fully transferable, which can help you to sell your home at a later date.
Pricing
Look for the best value and warranty for the price quoted. In order to get the best value, do not jump to the company with the lowest bid and then end up spending more money to fix problems later. When homeowners do this, they often encounter problems and end up paying for work that could have been covered under a workmanship guarantee from an established GAF-certified roofing company.
5. Obtain Estimates
Before making up your mind, interview at least three professional roofers. Doing so helps you match the best company for your job, one that will guarantee that your project is done right. Consulting with more than one roofing contractor will also inform you of the different roofing materials available and their advantages. This will help you choose the best material to use, based on the needs of your home.
Ask each of the contractors for a written estimate for your roofing project. This estimate should include a project commencement date, an estimated time of completion, a full work description, a detailed list of all roofing materials including sealant type, and last but not least, specific guarantees and work expectations.
Go over the details of each estimate document closely so that you can choose the contractor that best meets your needs and expectations for the work at a price that falls within your budget. Once you have decided, accept the proposal and let the contractor get to work!
6. Schedule Your Project
Once you’ve chosen your contractor, coordinate a timeline that works for you. Be mindful of the weather – roofing projects are best done in dry conditions. A good contractor will provide a clear timeline and keep you updated if anything changes.
7. Prepare Your Home
Roofing can be messy and noisy. Before the project starts, move vehicles, cover plants or outdoor furniture, and remove items from your attic or walls that could get damaged. Make sure kids and pets are safe from the work area.
8. Stay in Communication
During the project, keep in close contact with your contractor. Regular updates help ensure the work is going as planned and any issues are addressed immediately. Don’t be afraid to ask questions – you want to feel confident throughout the process.
9. Inspect the Finished Job
Once the work is done, do a final walkthrough with your contractor to ensure everything meets your expectations. Check that the materials were installed properly, the job site is cleaned up, and all promises were fulfilled.
Planning your roofing project doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right contractor and some preparation, you can ensure your new roof is installed smoothly, on time, and within budget.
Ready to get started? Contact Remodart to help you plan your roofing project!