Did you know that, as of May 2021, there were 129,890 roofers in the United States alone? The majority work as contractors, while others work for building construction companies.
That high employment rate means you won’t have difficulty finding a roofer near you. However, it also means you must do your due diligence to choose the best roofing company.
Don’t worry, though; we’re here to give you tips. So keep reading, as they can help you select the best roofing service provider for your needs.
Check Local Roofer Licensure Requirements
To ensure you choose one of, if not the best, roofing companies, check your local licensing laws first.
In some states, roofers must have a business and a contractor license. In these places, it’s against the law to perform roofing jobs without the proper permits.
Thus, if you live in one of those states, ensure you check each of your prospect’s license validity.
Look for Professional Affiliations
Other states, like Texas, don’t require business or contractor licensure. So to prove their expertise, roofers obtain one from a local contractor’s board. That’s one thing to look for in professional roofers if you live in a state where a license isn’t mandatory.
For example, Lone Star State has the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT). RCAT only licenses roofers who operate in Texas and have passed the licensure exam. Moreover, it requires licensees to carry liability or worker’s compensation insurance.
Get More Than Just an Estimate
Nowadays, you can expect free quotes from professionals in the roofing industry. So, when you ring up a roofer, they’ll likely give you a ballpark figure, say, $8,000 for a new roof or $1,000 for repairs.
However, the best roofing company will do more than that; they’ll give you a detailed breakdown. After all, they know that understanding roof estimate values can be tricky. Thus, they’ll explain where your money will go, such as if it will be for materials or labor, without you having to ask.
At the same time, you may meet some roofers who may not wish to explain the quote they give you. Or, they may, but do so hurriedly. In this case, feel free to take your project elsewhere.
Ask What Happens to Leftover Debris
The U.S. generates 11 million tons of waste asphalt roofing shingles yearly. A whopping 90%, or 10 million tons, comes from re-roofing jobs. If disposed of incorrectly, they can become sources of pollutants.
For that reason, reputable roofers have become more proactive in recycling roof debris. For example, their services include collecting and hauling leftover materials from client properties. They then transport these directly to local recycling facilities.
However, not all roofers implement such practices, so be sure to ask each of your prospects.
Start Searching for the Best Roofing Company
Remember: A roof’s life depends not only on the weather and materials but installation, too. If placed and cared for properly, they can last for decades. For instance, asphalt can last for 20 years and slate up to 150 years.
So, follow our tips for choosing the best roofing company in your area. As local experts, they know which roofing materials can withstand your area’s weather. Likewise, they know the best weather-resistant installation methods to use.
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