Whether replacing a roof or planning a new construction project, most homeowners have a basic idea of how they’d like their house to look. Changing roofing material can dramatically change the look of a house or business, but some people feel it’s not worth extra money for a nicer roof if it’s not visible to others.
Budget constraints may be a major consideration when changing or installing a roof. Composition (asphalt or fiberglass shingles) products are generally the least expensive. Tile options follow, and shake (wood shingles) products are usually the most expensive.
Consider how often access to a roof is needed. Properties with solar panels, HVAC or other roof accessories that occasionally need maintenance will need roofing that can support someone walking on it. Composition is the easiest to walk on without damaging the roofing material, but tile and shake can be walked on if installed properly.
Other questions to ask yourself when choosing roofing material:
• What do you want your house to look like?
• How long are you planning to live in the house?
• How much of the roof can be seen?
Before investing in re-roofing a house or other property, pre-qualify and choose a professional roofing contractor. Here are some guidelines to help navigate which roofer is best for a project:
• Ask the contractor to explain their project supervision and quality control procedures. Ask the name of the person in charge of the project and determine the number of workers required and the estimated project completion time.
• Verify that the contractor has a valid contractor’s license and is bonded.
• Ask about a permanent business office location, phone/fax number, tax identification number, and business license where required. Communication by telephone or email should be available throughout the project.
• Make sure the company provides its employees with the proper work and safety training and has liability and workers’ compensation insurance in place.
• Make sure the roofing contractor is financially stable.
• Ask to see examples of previous projects or a list of references.
• Request a detailed, written proposal and review it for a complete description of the work and specifications, including estimated project start and end dates and payment procedures.
• Make sure the contractor is a licensed and approved applicator by the manufacturers for the roofing materials chosen.
• Contact the California Contractors License Board to check if there are any previous complaints filed against the roofing contractor.
• Find out what warranties the company offers before signing any contracts.
