How to choose a roofing company in Dayton, Ohio
Your roofing system is an integral part of your home and should be dealt with immediately when facing any problems such as leaks, cracks, or missing shingles. However, choosing the right person for the job can be difficult. There are many accomplished and honest contractors, but there are also companies that offer excellent service that provide poor-quality workmanship at best. That is why we put together a guide to help you choose the best roofing company in Dayton, Ohio for your project.
Immediate Roofer Red Flags Include
There are many steps to take before choosing a contractor, but these red flags should turn you away quickly.
- Huge upfront payments (Anything over 50% down)
- High pressure to choose quickly
- Overly high or very low estimates
- Contractors with little or no experience
Now that you know the biggest red flags, you can conduct a thorough search for a roofing contractor. You can start this process with the following steps.
Compare different companies
When looking for a contractor to assist you in taking care of your home, don’t choose the first roofing company that comes up on Google search. Take the time to research several companies to ensure they provide exceptional services and quality materials.
Read Reviews
A reputable company will have ample 5-star reviews and customers raving about their success. Reading reviews, both good and bad, will assist you in determining the best contractor for the job.
Check how long they have been in business
Unfortunately, lousy roofers are notorious for collecting huge down payments and disappearing. Often they reopen a few months later under a different name. This is why checking to see how long a roofing company has been in business is essential. While new companies may be phenomenal, you should also check to see their reviews and references as well.
Choose Local
If given the opportunity to choose local, go for it. Small business owners are typically easier to contact and work hard to maintain a good reputation within their communities. Smaller companies often have employees who live in the communities they are working in, meaning they care more about each individual they work with. A local company will also be able to promptly assist you should any issue with your new roof arise, rather than having to wait for a large corporation to fit you into their schedule.
Check for Insurance
Any reputable roofing company will carry insurance and workers’ compensation for their employees. This frees you from any liability if disaster strikes. An unlicensed company will not have the necessary permits and may not be covered by your homeowner’s policy.
Ask for Recommendations
Many of your family and friends have probably had to deal with a contractor. Asking for their input on the best person for the job will help you make an informed decision from someone you know personally.
Check Their Better Business Bureau Profile
The BBB sets standards for ethical business behavior and monitors compliance. This is a great way to find out if a company has any major complaints against them, read reviews, and find out if the company you are working with is required to have specific licensing.
Make sure there is a written contract
Once you have spoken with enough contractors to understand your problem and have gathered essential information, you should receive a written estimate or proposal. Estimates may have different formats depending on the company that made them, but they should clearly explain price, materials, warranties, time frames, roof measurements, color choices, and property protection. This will ensure everyone involved is informed and reduces frustration and miscommunication. If a company refuses to give you a detailed estimate, it is a sign that they are untrustworthy and you should find someone else to complete the job.
Ask Questions
A good roofing contractor should be able to answer any questions that you may have about your roof, the repair or installation process, or pricing. If the person you are working with refuses to answer your questions or is not knowledgeable in the subject, you may want to reconsider who you are working with.
Here is a list of questions to ask your roofing contractor
- What types of roofing do you install?
- Do you work with Insurance Claims?
- Do you do roofing repairs? How much will they cost?
- What is your inclement weather policy?
- Will I receive a written estimate after the inspection?
A Good Roofing Contractor Will be
- Experienced
- Certified
- Trained
- Knowledgeable
- Insured
Hiring The Roofer
You have read over each estimate, and compared prices, materials, timing, and other details. You have verified the roofer is the right fit for your project, it is time to hire them for the job. Before work on your house starts ensure that you have
- The correct building permits and all necessary documents for your area.
- Sent in the financing application for approval or complete all of the insurance paperwork.
- Signed the contract. The contract typically will contain similar information to the proposal but only with the options you have chosen to move forward with. This is a legally binding document signed by the owner of the home that states the owner is committed to paying, and the roofer commits to doing the work.
While choosing a roofer is a long process and may cause headaches, you must choose the right person for the job. A small bit of research now can save you loads of time and help you avoid headaches from dealing with a poor roofer’s shoddy work later.
The Best Dayton, Ohio Roofing Company
If you are in the market for a new roof, D&G Roofing and Restoration is a Dayton, Ohio Roofing Company ready to help you solve your problems. We are experienced, certified, and insured. With almost 200 5-star reviews, we are sure to be the solution for your exterior home problems. Learn more about us.
