ZAHE General Construction.

Having a roofing issues? What are some of the signs that you need a new roof? ● Your roof is over 20 years old. The 20-year mark is often when shingles start to show signs of failure. ● Bald spots. Your shingles are curling, peeling or falling off your roof. ● Discoloration. When your roof starts to change color, it’s not good news! This discoloration may be moss or algae growing on your shingles. ● Actual roof failure. You’re seeing water spots, leaks or even light in your attic or ceilings. Once you suspect you need a roof replacement, the next step is finding a contractor you can trust. The easiest way to decide whether you are comfortable with a roofing company is by having a conversation and asking questions. The responses you get tell you a lot about the roofer whose business you are considering. Most of us aren’t roofing pros, though, so we need a little help knowing exactly what to ask! No worries — here are five questions any contractor should be able to answer clearly and thoroughly before you let anyone on your roof.1. What is the full name and physical address of your roofing company? Uh, this one should be easy, right? You’d think so. Not all roofers, however, have an easy-to-use website that provides you with all of the details you need — like who you’ll actually be working with, and where you can find them if there’s trouble. A physical address is important for 2 reasons — a contractor with an office nearby is likely to provide better service and have references in your area; and a P.O. box can indicate that a company has not been in business for very long. Experience matters: a seasoned roofing contractor is usually more informed about local roofing requirements, and can offer feedback on different product performance because he’s seen them in action. 2. Does your roofing company carry insurance? Any contractor working on your home should carry both liability and workers’ compensation insurance. This coverage protects you, the homeowner, in the unlikely event that an accident occurs. ● Liability insurance provides the contractor with coverage for job-related accidents or damage to your home. ● Workers’ compensation insurance provides coverage for the employees if they are injured on the job. Both liability and workers’ compensation insurance ensure that the contractor’s insurance company covers the bill in case any issues arise. Don’t be afraid to demand for proof of insurance! If an uninsured or underinsured company has an accident on your property, you may find yourself in a real financial pickle. 3. What are your credentials? Different states have different standards. Some states require licensing, while others ask roofing contractors to pass an exam or complete certain amounts or schooling or apprenticing. You can find a handy guide for licensing requirements in your region here. As with any construction or renovation job on your property, it’s always a good idea to give your local building inspector’s office a call to make sure you or your roofer are not overlooking any requirements or regulations. 4. Do you have references? You wouldn’t buy a pair of running shoes if your friends told you they were terrible. Why would you spend $10,000 on a new roof without seeing what other people had to say? References provide feedback from real-life roofing experiences. Your roofing contractor should be able to provide you with several references or referrals from previous jobs. Remember to talk to real-life references and don’t rely exclusively on online reviews, which may be incomplete or inaccurate. Talking to an actual reference can provide you with facts based on their personal roofing experience, as well as the added bonus of feedback on product performance since installation. 5. What products do you recommend? A roofing contractor should be able to walk you through the decking, shingles, flashing and related products that are right for you based on your unique needs, wants and budget. A good roofer will bring samples right to your home! The contractor should explain how different roofing materials and options can be combined to work best for your home. Be fearless when talking about your budget. A trustworthy roofing contractor will work to meet your budget without sacrificing quality. He should be able to support his recommendations with information that outlines the following details: ● Cost and Options ● Warranties (labor and product) ● Specifications and Standards (types of shingles, ventilation and underlayment ) ● Durability (fire, wind, tear and wind-driven rain resistance) If you can’t resist doing some preparatory research before you schedule to meet with a roofing contractor, Consumer Reports offers a list of basics when shopping for a new roof. Good luck in your search for a great roofer! It’s your house — make sure you work with someone you can trust.