Protecting your family and personal possessions is vital to your sense of security. The top roofing contractors in Dearborn operate with this concept in mind every day. From the use of the most durable shingles to award-winning customer support, you deserve to receive the highest quality roofing services available. Below are thirteen questions to ask to ensure that you hire a top-notch roofing contractor in Dearborn, Michigan.
1) What type of roofing services do you offer?
Dearborn’s leading roofing companies offer an extensive collection of roofing services. By selecting a company that can handle installation, repairs, updates, and weather damage, you can save money and enjoy working with a provider who you have come to know and trust. Ideally, the roofing contractor you choose will offer the following services:
- New roof installation
- Roof repair
- Residential roofing services
- Roof tear-offs
- Roof restoration
2) How long will it take for you to complete my roofing project?
Speed and efficiency are a must in the residential roofing industry. Your roofing contractor should be able to provide you with a reasonable estimate the time required to complete your roof installation or repair. Additionally, make sure to ask when your contractor would be able to get started on your roof, as postponing roof repair projects can cause problems or damage to worsen.
3) Do you have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)?
A pristine rating with the BBB is usually a testament to a contractor’s commitment to safety, quality, and professionalism. If you have any specific questions about a contractor, you can reach out directly to your local Better Business Bureau and ask if there have been any complaints filed against a contractor. The BBB also has a host of available resources to help ensure that you do not fall victim to roofing scams.
4) Are you fully licensed and insured?
“Don’t hesitate to ask the roofing contractor for proof of insurance. In fact, insist on seeing copies of insurance certificates that verify workers’ compensation and general liability coverages. Make sure the coverages are in effect through the duration of your job. If a contractor is not properly insured, you, the owner, may be liable for accidents that occur on the property.”
– National Roofing Contractors Association
Having your roof repaired or installed by an uninsured roofing contractor is a recipe for disaster. If problems arise, you could be held liable for them even if they were not your fault. You can avoid this pitfall by making sure that you only consider roofing companies that are fully licensed and insured. Most companies will post any information related to licensure or insurance on their website, but it is still wise to request a current copy of the provider’s license and insurance.
5) What type of shingles do you use?
A roofing contractor’s shingle selection will directly impact the longevity of your new roof. Your contractor should be happy to discuss the benefits of the shingles they use and how they are resistant to common issues such as staining, cracking, and blistering.
6) Do you offer a no-commitment roof inspection and quotation?
A complimentary roofing inspection and clearly written quotation are essential to a successful project. Be sure to avoid companies that demand payment in advance while refusing to provide a written estimate. Your written estimate should include the following details:
- An itemized estimate of labor and material charges
- A summary of the warranty you will receive
- Your contractor’s name, business address, email address, and telephone number
- A signature and expiration date
7) Can you please provide some references for customers in Dearborn?
“A contractor should be able to give you names, addresses, and phone numbers of at least three clients with projects like yours. Ask each client how long ago the project was and whether it was completed on time…You also could tell the contractor that you’d like to visit jobs in progress.”
– United States Federal Trade Commission
All roofing companies are not created equal. One of the best ways to separate the best roof repair companies from the rest of the pack is to request a list of current and existing customers in the Dearborn area. Good references from satisfied customers are usually a good sign that you are dealing with a reputable contractor. When you contact references, make sure to ask the following questions:
- Did the company attempt to charge you any unexpected fees?
- Did the roofing technicians show up on time and remain focused on their work?
- Did the company remove all debris from your yard upon completion of the job?
8) What type of guarantee do you offer?
A warranty is a vital part of any negotiation with a roofing contractor. Because it can take several months or years for homeowners to feel the effects of poor quality shingles or roofing work, you need to make sure that your contractor clearly outlines the details of your warranty or guarantee. The top providers will offer a leak-free guarantee that your new roof will last for decades.
9) Do you offer any financing options?
Before you sign any paperwork, make sure that you ask about all available payment options, including financing options. Many of Michigan’s best roofing companies will be willing to sit down with you and review payment arrangements and any flexible financing plans for which you might be eligible. Just ask your provider to supply you with a financing application to see if you qualify.
10) Do you have any industry certifications?
“Master Elite® Certification is GAF’s factory certification program that provides ongoing training to roofing contractors and assurance to you that the roof will be completed well and professionally. Only 3% of all roofing contractors have qualified as Master Elite® Choosing a GAF Master Elite® contractor is your assurance that you’ll be dealing with a quality, and dependable professional contractor not some ‘fly-by-nighter’.”
– GAF
Certifications in the roofing industry show a contractor’s commitment to quality, education, and safety. GAF Master Elite certification is among the most desirable certifications a roofing company can possess. With only 3% of roofing companies holding this certification, you can enjoy the extra sense of security that comes with knowing that you are working with a certified roofing company.
11) Can my existing roof be repaired or do I need a brand new roof?
The most trusted roofing contractors will thoroughly evaluate your existing roof and provide an honest assessment of its condition. They will let you know if your existing roof is reliable, safe and only in need of minor repairs. They will not try to convince you to invest in a brand new roof that you do not yet need. In general, there are some key signs that indicate that you need to replace your roof instead of replacing it. Here are a few of them:
- You notice water stains on your ceiling
- Your shingles are cracking, curling, or blistering
- You notice that your roof has a lot of missing shingles
- Your attic is full of moisture
- Shingle granules are starting to pile up in your gutters
- Your energy bills have skyrocketed
- Your roof has not been replaced in decades
12) Do you outsource any of your work or handle all of it on your own?
As a homeowner, you will want to know who will be on your property. Ideally, your roofing contractor employs a core group of experienced technicians who are accustomed to working together. While there are times and projects that might be appropriate for outsourcing, it is the roofing contractor’s responsibility to properly screen any outsourced laborers to make sure that they are professional and qualified to work on your roof.
13) How can I get in touch with you if I have questions?
“Communication is key to every business. If you aren’t getting what you need on the front end when they are trying to get your business, what will happen once you have committed the work to them?”
– Chris Sielfleisch, CJS Roofing Co., LLC and Angie’s List Contributor
When a roofing emergency strikes, you need help fast. Waiting for days to receive a return phone call or email could subject your family and personal possessions to damage or injury. Make sure that you choose a roofing provider that is known for being easily accessible and open to handling emergencies. Your roofing contractor should proactively provide a direct telephone number and email address to ensure that you are able to communicate any questions or needs.
All Point Construction: Your total solution to all of your roofing needs
Finding a company in the Dearborn area that can answer all of the above questions with confidence is essential to ensuring that your roofing work is completed swiftly and professionally. The roofing professionals with Allpoint Construction can answer all of these questions with ease. As an A+ rated company by the BBB, Allpoint Construction has the tools and experience necessary to handle all of your roofing needs quickly and affordably. We invite you to contact us today to request a complimentary estimate. We look forward to becoming your total solution for all of your roofing needs!
