Don't Get Ripped Off: How to Pick the Right Roofer
So, you need a new roof, or maybe a big repair. That's a huge decision, and let's be honest, it's going to cost a pretty penny. You definitely don't want to hand that kind of money over to just anyone, right? I've been in this business a long time here in Shoreline – 25 years, actually – and I've seen it all: the great work, the terrible work, and everything in between. Here's my honest advice on how to find a roofer you can really trust.
What Questions Should You Ask?
When someone shows up at your house to give you a bid, don't hold back. Remember, you're interviewing *them*, not the other way around. Here are some things you absolutely must ask about:
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured? This isn't just a suggestion; it's a requirement. Ask for proof. Any legitimate contractor won't have a problem showing you their Washington State contractor license number, along with proof of bonding and general liability insurance. If they start to hesitate or make excuses, well, you know what to do: show them the door. Without these protections, you're completely exposed if something goes wrong.
How long have you been in business? Experience really counts in this line of work. Someone who's been around for a while is much more likely to stand behind what they do. They've seen all sorts of Puget Sound weather patterns and know exactly how to build a roof that will last through our notoriously wet winters.
Can I see some local references or past projects? A good contractor will have a list of happy customers. Even better, ask if you can drive by a few of their completed jobs right here in the area. It's a great way to see their work firsthand, isn't it?
Who will actually be doing the work? Your crew or subcontractors? This isn't necessarily a deal-breaker, but it's good information to have. If they use subs, ask how long they've been working together and if those subs are also insured.
What's your warranty? You need to understand what's covered and for how long, both for the materials and for the labor. Make sure you get all of it in writing.
How do you protect my property during the project? Let's face it, roofing can be a messy job. Ask how they plan to protect your landscaping, your driveway, and how they'll collect all the debris. For example, we always use tarps and big magnets for nails.
What to Look for in a Quote
Don't just look at the final number. A super cheap quote often means cheap work or that corners are being cut. You want to see detail:
Detailed Scope of Work: This should clearly spell out exactly what they're going to do. Are they tearing off the old roof or just overlaying? What kind of underlayment are they using? What specific type and brand of shingles? How many layers of existing roofing will they remove? Are they replacing flashing, vents, and pipe boots?
Materials Specified: Don't just say