According to commercial roofing contractors, getting a new roof is a big, expensive job, and there are numerous things to think about when you decide to tackle this task. It’s essential that you make all the right decisions before construction begins because once finished, the roof you build will be with you for many years to come.
In this article, we look at what you need to settle with your contractor before you begin construction to ensure you get the roof that’s not only right for your home, but one that you’re going to be happy with.
Do You Need A Roof?
The first question to ask is whether you need a new roof or not. In some cases, you can get by with repairs that will extend the life of your current roof for another few years or so. Just because you have a leak or some broken shingles doesn’t mean you need to fork over the money to put on a whole new roof. Minor repairs are much cheaper and can be done by you if you’re handy.
Money, Money, Money
Once you’ve decided that you need a new roof, you have to set a budget for what you can afford. This number will determine much of what happens next in terms of what a contractor can do with that amount of money and what materials you’re limited to. Keep in mind that most contractors get paid by the hour and have different rates depending on the type of job they’re taking on. So, ask yourself:
– How Much Can I Spend?
– How Long Is The Job Going To Take?
– What’s The Job I’m Paying For?
Nail these things down before you contact a contractor to discuss the job.
Choosing A Contractor
Now that you’ve determined what you have to spend and what you’re looking for in a roof, it’s time to search for the right roofing contractor to do the job. In addition to asking your contractor how much they’re going to charge to do the job and how long it’s going to take, you need to ask them other essential questions such as, “Are you licensed? Do you have insurance? Can I get a written estimate?”
It’s also important to ask them questions regarding the new and old roof; questions like, Are they going to install a drip edge on the new roof? Are they going to install ladder stabilizers to protect the gutters? Are there any fees involved in recycling or disposal of the old roof?
Last, ask them about how your home and the neighborhood might be affected, like, how many trucks are going to be parked on the property and if they repair any damage to the landscaping that happens during the construction.
Being well-informed before you take on the expense of getting a new roof puts you in a much better position to ensure you get exactly what you’re looking for at a price you can afford.