One of the biggest challenges business owners face when it comes to conducting roof work is finding the best contractor to do it. As many have their hands tied with business operations already, simply finding the time to do the research is difficult. But as this is not a decision to be making on a whim, finding a reliable roofing contractor that is qualified to keep your roof protected for the next 20+ years is crucial.
When looking for a company, it’s important to find one that isn’t just licensed and trained, but is honest, professional, and trustworthy. This way you will be confident when deciding on a quality roofer who looks out for your best interest.
When looking for a good roofing contractor for your commercial building, keep these tips in mind.
1. Look at Referrals and Reviews
Any roofing company that serves customers locally isn’t likely out to scam them. When customers notice that their experience or service is sub-par, they will talk. Whether it’s on Google, Yelp, Yahoo, unhappy customers usually won’t be shy to share their experience with the company.
The contractor should also be updated with all OSHA requirements and codes as well as have an established partnership with major manufacturers. If not, you may end up with a cheap roofing system or one that won’t be installed properly, resulting in numerous leaks in the near future
2. Avoid Storm Chasers
Make sure your commercial roofing contractor has an established presence in your metro area. Anyone canvassing the area after a storm who is not established in the market is looking to make a fast buck and is probably not worthy of your business.
3. Don’t Let Price Be Your Sole Decision-Maker
Companies that sign with the cheapest roofing contractor are only signing up for problems. Cheap means cheap. If price is your sole criteria, corners will be cut. Seek value and make sure you compare the scope of work
4. Not all flat roofs are the same–CHECK THE SCOPE OF WORK.
Scope matters! Is your contractor proposing a roof “replacement” or a roof “re-cover”? Is the contractor complying with the state energy code? Is the contractor installing new coping? Is it a single ply system? If yes, is it fully adhered or screwed down?
All of these things and more can affect price, performance and quality. When you look at your quote, if you cannot tell what the contractor is going to do to your building, then it is not a good scope. Don’t use a contractor who cannot write a good scope
5. Ask Them About Manufacturer’s Warranties
One should never be fooled by the free warranties included with a roofing system. It’s very important to read the fine print of each warranty, especially those that are free to get insight as to just what it is they cover. Make sure that your roof comes with a total system warranty. These have a few different labels, but the system warranty should cover materials and labor and should guaranty that the roof will be free from leaks for the duration of the guaranty period.
Generally, paying for a manufacturer’s total system guaranty will get you a better, truer warranty. Beware that not all roofing contractors have access to manufacturer warranties. In order to sell a manufacturer’s warranty, the contractor must be licensed by the manufacturer. This means that the manufacturer has vetted the contractor and deemed them qualified .
Keep in mind that even if a roof is not installed properly, it can take months or even years to notice the damage. These will be hefty costs that will go on your company’s expense reports because they won’t be covered by a free warranty
6. Ask About Safety Procedures
No one wants an accident on their property. The roofing contractor must have a current, active safety program that puts safety as their first priority. Be sure to ask about their safety manual and their fall protection procedures
7. Ask About Licensing and Insurance Policy
Make sure your roofer is insured and licensed. Many states, including Illinois, require licensing for all roofing contractors, but it still doesn’t stop unlicensed workers from doing the work. Remember to always ask for a copy of their license and to confirm their status online
8. Research Different Roofing Materials
No 2 roofing materials are ever the same. A contractor that provides you with one option is not looking out for your best interest. Factors including durability, cost, ease of installation, and even color will all affect your decision.
While some policies may cover the cost of the new roof, you may be limited on which materials from which you can choose. Be sure to research the details of your insurance policy as well as the options available from each contractor. If you are still unsure, a good contractor will make a recommendation based on your budget and type of building. Just know that you have the deciding power and are the one who will be paying for the roof in the end.
Work with Reliable Roofing
When it comes to finding a trustworthy, quality roofing contractor, our professionals at Reliable Roofing completely understand your concerns as a property owner. This is why it is included in each of our processes to provide you with all information to make the best decision when choosing your roofing contractor.
Before signing for any work, we will provide you with a copy of our insurance certificate, licensing, information about our roofing systems, and any additional information you may need. As it is our goal to provide a quality service for your business, it is also important that you feel confident when working with us and the roofing material to be installed on your commercial building.
Available for all of your commercial roofing needs, Reliable Roofing proudly serves the Chicago metropolitan area with a number of roofing services, including roof repair, replacement, inspection, maintenance, equipment installation, and more.
Free Estimate
To receive a free estimate on any of our commercial roofing services, please call Reliable Roofing at (815) 981-9898 or fill out a contact form and we will get back to you shortly.