If you were to find an old phone book and look at roofing companies and then Google them, you’ll quickly notice that few are still around. It takes a great deal of skill, attention to detail and understanding of customer service to remain a roofing contractor for more than a few years. With so many options at your fingertips, you may wonder how you can determine which of the many roofing companies you can find online are the right ones to call for an estimate. It takes knowing what to look for and a little effort.
Don’t Just Call the First Roofing Contractor Who Shows Up in Search
Yes, searching online is a great way to find some roofing companies you may want to call. However, the right roofing contractor has several characteristics. Once you have some search results, here are some things you can do to help ensure you call an honest and reputable company for your roof replacement or repair.
- Go to their website, see if they offer the brand shingles you want. If they do, make sure they’re rated by the manufacturer in some manner.
- Read their reviews on Google and other sites.
- Check with the Better Business Bureau for their rating and see if they have any open complaints.
If everything looks good with those three items, give them a call and schedule an appointment for a quote.
Interview Them While They Are at Your Home
Take note of when they show up and how they present themselves. A roofing contractor who shows up on time for the estimate appointment is more likely to show up in the future. Ask about their insurance. Never hire any type of contractor who doesn’t carry full liability and workman’s compensation insurance. Ask about their process and if the quote they’re providing is a firm quote or simply an estimate. There can be a significant difference.
Review the Quote/Contract Carefully
When you do your research and contact A+ BBB rated contractors and those who are endorsed by the manufacturer rarely do you need a solid contract to fall back on. However, it is there to protect both you and the installer. Make sure the brand shingles, color and style are all in writing. Look at what sort of deposit they want before they start work and when the final payment is expected. Read their installation and workmanship warranty. Never pay a contractor in full before the job is complete! Also make sure their name, phone number and addressed are on the contract as well.
Hire the Roofing Contractor Who Proves Themselves
You’ll find that Cooley Roofing has been around long enough that you could find us in the phone book. We are also GAF Master Elite®, CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster™ and an Owens Corning installer. We are A+ rated by the BBB and stand behind our work with our workmanship guarantee. Call us for a free roof replacement quote that will exactly match your final bill. We can be reached at (336) 766-6488 or you can fill out our contact form.
