A professional roofer is the person to call when the roof of a house needs a check-up, repairs or replacement. It is not recommended that a homeowner do their own maintenance as it could put them in a dangerous situation. It is best to leave such concerns to expert contractors, as they know their business!

Available Contractor Services

There are many services available to consumers from most reliable roofers. The following are just a few examples.

• Slating - This does not just refer to the replacement of roof slates; this rarely occurs since slate is a very durable material. More frequently, damage to a nail that secures the slate is the main reason why slate slips from the roof. Builders can save the slate tiles while doing the hard work that restores the roof to its original look.

• Insulating - The insulation of a house is another important service that is offered by a contractor. Good insulation results in a more energy efficient house, so be sure that the residence has good quality insulation.

• Gutters – These roof necessities also need to be maintained. Although a homeowner could do the work involved in maintaining the gutters, contractors are better equipped and trained to handle this chore and save the homeowner from attempting this on their own. Trained roofing companies know how to use a ladder safely and properly and can save a homeowner from any potential accidents.

• Other Services - An expert contractor offers a variety of other services that could include: tiling, felting, chimney stacks, inspection, maintenance and waterproofing.

Important Contractor Considerations

Replacing or repairing a roof is one of the most important decisions a homeowner will make. Therefore it is imperative that a careful decision about the builder be made when investing in roof repair or replacement. Choosing a mediocre builder could result in poor workmanship and the structural integrity of the home could suffer. The following are important things to consider when looking for the best contractor.

• List and Investigate – Consider all local companies and then research the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for information about these contractors, both good and bad. The BBB has an Accredited Business Locator that is very reliable; it is where a homeowner can search for a trustworthy builder near them.

• Verify Qualifications - Personally verify the qualifications of any selected contractor that should include: meeting all state and local requirements such as licenses, insurance and bonds; providing at least three references from recent jobs; and confirming whether any part of the job will be subcontracted.

• Beware of Storm Chasers – Homeowners should steer clear of contractors that go from one storm area to another and solicit work. Experience has shown that they: provide unrealistically low estimates that result in shoddy workmanship; demand payment up-front but seldom deliver what is promised, and use pushy sales tactics that promise much but deliver few good results.

• Everything in Writing – It is important to get everything in writing. Check the contract and make sure that the full scope of the job is clearly outlined, including clean-up and disposal of waste material once the job has been completed. In addition, terms of payment, estimated labor and material costs, and warranties/guarantees should all be part of the written contract upon which a homeowner and contractor both agree.

A homeowner should protect their home ownership dream from disappointment by equipping themselves with sufficient knowledge about each potential builder. The above steps will help ensure the selection of a quality contractor that knows their business thoroughly!