There are many aspects of a commercial building that residential roofing contractors typically focus on. Commercial Roofing Contractors usually work on two kinds of roofs: One is asphalt shingles and the other is metal roofing. Residential roofing contractors usually only work on single types of roofs: tile, slate, wood shakes, and plastic roofing. Their focus is more on home and business roof projects, such as:
Roofing contractors who are licensed, bonded, insured, and skilled in their field are called general contractors. These contractors can perform a wide variety of labor tasks related to the construction of a building. Good roofing contractors are experienced: They know what labor-intensive or high-volume jobs are. They have experience working with materials that are often considered very expensive – such as asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and tile – as well as materials that are much less expensive such as wood shakes. They have completed projects large and small, from residential to commercial buildings. They are able to complete new roof construction, as well as repair and renovation projects of all sizes.
Whether you’re a residential customer or a business building owner, you want your roof repaired properly and when necessary. No matter the size of your budget, finding a good roofer can be challenging. Many roofing contractors provide a free initial estimate, but then require a deposit before making any major repairs or guarantees. To avoid unexpected surprises, make sure you understand the commitment you’ll be making to the roofing contractors you choose.
When choosing a roofer, focus on the type of work they can do. If you’re replacing an existing roof, focus on the type of material they use, as well as whether they have extensive experience working with slates, asphalt shingles, metal roofs, or other types of roofs. The type of contractor you choose to perform roof repairs should also be based on their availability. Some roofers can only work on roofs in certain areas of the country, while others can work with any type of roof, even if it’s older than the one they are repairing. Be sure to research the available roofers in your area to ensure they have the experience and the proper equipment to tackle the job.
Asphalt shingles are perhaps the most common type of roofing material, so you’ll need to focus on the different types of asphalt used by the roofing contractors you interview. Find out what materials the contractor uses for newer roofs, as well as the maintenance methods they use to maintain their roof. Metal roofing contractors should have experience installing metal roofs, particularly for commercial buildings. For residential roofs, asphalt shingles may be the best option because they are durable, come in a wide variety of colors, and require little maintenance. However, you should ensure that the contractor you’re interviewing has the proper certifications and insurance to handle the job.
Once you have narrowed down your list of potential roofing contractors, contact each one to ask about pricing on the type of materials they are offering and on hourly rates. Although pricing is an important consideration, you should also look at the service quality that each contractor is offering. Are they able to install the materials quickly and effectively? What types of warranties do they offer? Are they willing to work in whatever city or area you need them? By carefully asking each candidate some of these questions, you will be able to better compare the pros and cons between each candidate.
Another important factor to consider is whether or not the roofing contractors on your list are licensed to perform work in your city or county. Sometimes, roofers that have experience but no formal licensing can still perform a poor job, which can lead to injuries or even death on the job. Check out your county or city’s department of building Inspection to see if any complaints have been lodged against any of the roofers on your list. Also, find out if the roofers you are considering have been cited in the past for roofing code violations. It’s also important to make sure that all of the roofing contractors that you are reviewing all have the proper licensing and insurance, so that you know that you will be hiring a safe and experienced contractor who is bonded and insured.