What to Look For in Roofing Contractors

Roofers play an integral part in maintaining a home's integrity. Without them, roofs would quickly become vulnerable to wear and tear, leaks, decay, and other damage that could leave a home in need of immediate repairs. Unfortunately, not all roofers are created equally. There are a number of key qualities to look for when hiring a new roofer. By identifying the qualities desired from your roofers, you will ensure that you hire the most qualified, experienced professional available. The following are the most common qualities that differentiate qualified roofers from those that are not:

One of the key aspects of roofers is the material they work with. Most roofers use a type of roofing called asphalt shingles. While asphalt shingles are used on many residential roofs, not all roofers use this type. Some roofers work with slate, metal, gypsum, clay, and other types of durable roofing materials. Whether you have a building that needs to be repaired or a single-family home that needs a roof replaced, you can be sure to find someone who has experience with the type of roof you need replacing.

Another important quality to look for in a roofer is their ability to provide personalized service. Roofers understand the entire process of roof construction and installation. This includes everything from selecting the perfect tiles for the perfect roof to making sure the nails are strong enough to hold down the roof and the shingles aren't weak and easily broken. When you work with a roofer who understands how each step in the process works, you are more likely to get the work done efficiently and cost-effectively.

Not only do qualified roofers understand every aspect of roofing construction and installation, but they also know which materials are the best for your particular application. For example, asphalt shingles are most effective for patios and smaller roofs. Gypsum roofing is ideal for roofs larger than 10 feet in diameter, because it is stronger and easier to install. However, slate and ceramic tile roofs are better suited to homes and businesses with higher ceilings.

If you need a roofer to install single-ply roofing materials, you should inquire about whether or not the contractor uses the proper materials. Often times, single-ply roofing materials are more affordable and require less upkeep than other types of roofing materials. However, if you choose to use slate or gypsum roofing materials you should ask the contractor whether or not they use lead-free paints. Lead-based paints can leach into water supplies and leach into soil and other areas, where they will eventually become extremely toxic. For this reason, you should never work with a company that does not offer guarantees on lead-free paint or roof coatings.

If you do a lot of remodeling or building construction, make sure that you only contract with reputable roofers. A roofer can bring an element of fun and excitement to the project when he or she brings fresh, new shingles to the job site. However, hiring a roofer is not something that you should do without careful planning. The roof is one of the most important parts of the house, so you want to make sure that the roofer you choose is experienced and skilled in installing the type of roof that you want to have installed. Once you find a roofer that you are happy with, you can rest easy knowing that the roofers work will be done to your highest standards.