Finding a Roofer

Step 1: Finding a Roofer

Any home improvement is a complex combination of elements, the success of which depends on the quality of materials, installation, and over all construction. There are many ways to start your search for the contractor who meets your individual needs.

• Referrals are obviously the best source for names of credible companies. Ask friends and family members who they have used in the past. Visit our Reference Page.
• The National Association of Home Builders, North Carolina Association of Home Builders, Cabarrus County Building Industry Association, & the National Roofing Contractors Association.
• Local suppliers of building products.

Step 2: Choosing a Roofer

If you feel confident that the contractor is truly interested in your project, ask for the company's vital statistics, specific business information which will help you make your final decision.

• Business Name and Address: A good professional contractor will provide the companies physical address and telephone number. These are essential when checking on the company's previous business dealings.
• Experience: The training and experience of a contractor, as well as the age of his or her company will help you determine their ability to successfully complete your project. Visit Our About Us Page
• Licensing: Some states require special licensing for contractors. Check our License status at The North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors. Our License Number is 61292.
• Insurance Coverage: A contractor should carry workers compensation and general liability insurance. Request the name and address of the insurance carrier, along with a copy of the company's insurance certificate. Beware of low bids which are a result of inadequate and/or no general liability insurance and workman's compensation. We are fully insured with workman's compensation for our company and all our sub-contractors as well as general liability. We provide a certificate of insurance to each homeowner prior to starting any work which shows the certificate being directed to that homeowner and assuring you of coverage for your job.
• Professional References: Your contractors past can help determine your future. Ask for a list of completed projects, including the names and telephone numbers of previous clients. Visit Our Reference Page
• Company Philosophy: Discuss application techniques and workmanship guarantees.
• Warranty: Does the contractor stand behind his work? View Warranty Here

Step 3: Choosing a Roofing Material

Utilizing the Roofing Contractor's Product Knowledge

Your contractor should have up to date knowledge of quality products for your project. He or she is the best source of information, but you should play an active role in the product selection process. Ask questions about different materials such as brand names, life span, thickness, design, available colors, and warranties. Selecting the best products is as important to your job as selecting the right contractor. View our Products Page

Step 4: The Roofing Contract

Get it in writing. Beware of verbal promises. When a contract is presented, it should spell out the proposed work and prices. Read the contract carefully. Misunderstandings are the most common cause of contract disputes. Pay special attention to be certain the following points are covered in the contract.

• Building Permits: What's necessary? Consider local ordinances, costs, posting requirements. North Carolina does not currently require a permit for roofing replacement.
• Products Materials: What will be used, brands, colors, etc.
• Project Inspections: Number of inspections, completion timetable. We have a management representative on site several times daily and normally complete a job within one to two days for an average roof.
• Site Procedures: Work hours, clean up procedures on and around your home, safety precautions, etc.. We usually begin our jobs between 7:30 and 9:00 AM, and sometimes work until dark. During the hottest part of the day we may take several hours off in order to protect our sub contractors and your new roofing surface. We continuously clean while work is in progress and after all work is completed, we provide appropriate equipment necessary to remove all debris. Our sub contractors are all fully trained in OSHA Safety guidelines with a high emphasis on fall protection.
• Warranties: Including both workmanship and product. View Warranty Here
• Terms: Detailed as method of payment to include a lien waiver upon final payment. There are only two reason why you should pay cash up front. Reputable roofing contractors will not need cash up front for 99% of all jobs they do. The only circumstances that would make it necessary are if you special order non returnable roofing materials, or insurance does not cover your repairs and you have questionable credit. Be careful of contractors who ask for money up front especially if your roof is standard wood, composition, or tile shingles. This is the number one area of fraud among contractors. We rarely ask for more than a minimal deposit up front (ie 10%) and that is done on an individual basis. This will be covered by our representative prior to entering into any contract to perform work.
• Liens: You should be aware that under the laws of most states, a contractor who does work on your home, or a supplier of materials for such work, has a right to place a lien on your property. Make sure all essential elements of your agreement are written down and understood by both parties. If requested we will provide our customer with a lien waiver form for their project once the project is completed and we have received payment in full for all work performed.
• Ventilation: The roofing company you choose should discuss ventilation in your home. Ventilation is the key to having the Ultimate Performance Roofing System. You can install the shingles correctly, but if the home is not properly ventilated, the life expectancy of your roof is drastically reduced and the shingle manufacturer warranty could be void due to the improper ventalation.
• Who Do You Contact For Customer Service After The Sale: The roofing company you choose should be able to answer this question easily and you should ALWAYS make sure to get your warranty in writing at the completion of the project.

Step 5: Letting the Roofer Work

Let the Roofing Contractor do His/Her work, sit back and Relax

A little well planned research up front will undoubtedly save you a lot of time and trouble later on. Once you feel confident you have the best contractor, the best products, the best value, simply relax and let your contractor do his job. Do however monitor the  progress of your project to be certain your contractor lives up to his superior reputation.