Residential Roofers
A Residential Roofer That Can Do Green Roofs Saved Me Money
I called a residential roofer to find out what I need to do to take advantage of the great tax credits the Federal government is offering homeowners that remodel their homes with environmentally friendly materials; he didn’t even stop to think about it. He immediately started to list all kinds of options. I have an old flat roof home in Southern California and I never was able to use the space for much. My wife and kids would hang out up there and lie in the sun or grow a few vegetables in small planting trays, but that was it.
The residential roofer suggested something I had never even heard of: Green roofs. When he said green roofs I knew I had to look completely stupid because I had no idea what he was talking about. The residential roofer explained to me that green roofs were complete rooftop gardens and patio spaces that qualify for the federal government’s tax credit, offered for environmentally friendly remodel projects. He even told me that it was a good idea for me to talk to my tax professional before I committed to having him do the job, so I knew how much of a tax credit I could get.
How to Choose a Residential Roofer
It is crucial to find an experienced professional who can offer the homeowner with the roofing they want. A good roofing system will ensure that a family is as well as their personal belongings safe from external elements, like rain, wind, snow and everything else. The homeowner should seek out many roofing companies for residential properties that hold the required permits and insurance coverage in addition to an outstanding reputation in the business.
First, confirm that they are able to obtain the required business licenses in accordance with the state’s requirements. Individuals should check with the State Department of Professional Regulation or their state licensing board to determine. When requesting information about licensing, it is important to verify that the business is a legitimate one. You can inquire about the business address, tax identification number and email address. Contact numbers as well as the website can be found. If the address of the business is at the address of a P.O. Box, it’s likely that they don’t have an actual office. Box, chances are they do not have an actual office. Verify that the information on the website is correct.
Request the proof of insurance. A certificate of insurance will be issued to homeowners when the residential roofing company has been insured. The certificate outlines all protection. Make certain the roofing company is covered by liability and workers compensation coverage. Insurance coverage that is adequate can shield a homeowner from any lawsuits if the roofer or employees get injured while on the job.
Residential Roofers: Recommended Certifications, Licenses, and Insurance
Replacing or fixing your roof is a major investment. It’s among the most significant costs you’ll have to pay as a homeowner. It’s one of the most crucial decisions you can make for the security and safety of your home. A good roof can keep your property and family safe during harsh weather, improve the value of your home and even cut costs by boosting energy efficiency. It is important to be aware of what to look for when choosing a roofer. You should ask about their references and workmanship assurances. Below are some terms to look out for when it comes to a business’s organization structure.
Are they a local, incorporated company?
The most effective roofing firms are local ones which are registered in the state in which you live. Companies that travel across country to fix roofing roofs are a common phenomenon in the industry. This is especially true following natural disasters and during the summer and spring months when repairs are the most frequent. To avoid headaches avoid the services of these firms.
Many contractors aren’t properly incorporated. You must choose an organization that is established and has a strong presence in your community. These are significant indicators of quality and professionalism. The company will have the staying power that gives meaning to warranties and guarantees, and will be in business if you need to inquire about your roof at any time later on.
Are they allowed to work in your region?
A reputable roofing company must be licensed to operate in your area. They’ll know about the permitting requirements that your town or state may have , and will be able to explain any charges and procedures. It’s essential that any quotations they provide you include being present for inspections and dealing with town officials. It is possible to determine if they are licensed to work in your locality by calling the state’s small-business licensing office.
Are they members of the Better Business Bureau (BBB)?
The Better Business Bureau has been serving the needs of consumers for many years and has helped to ensure the high quality of products and services available offered. The Better Business Bureau will only choose businesses that are reputable. It is also beneficial to look up their ratings. The company must have an ‘A+’ rating. If there are problems or complaints about a company, ensure that the issue was resolved. Sometimes customers are difficult or have problems with customer service. However, you must ensure that any complaints were addressed and addressed promptly.
Do they carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance?
Check that your roofing company is insured with at minimum $1,000,000 of general liability insurance prior to you engage them. This ensures that they are covered for many issues including damage to your house and injuries to their workers. Check to see if they’re covered by workers’ compensation insurance which will provide additional protection in case of an accident. Contractors who do not have insured may be held accountable for any damages to your house. Your homeowner’s insurance may also be responsible for any injuries that happen on your property. Don’t work with contractors who claim to be self-insured.
Are they factory-certified?
Manufacturer certification is a hallmark of the top roofing firms in the sector. Simply put, this means that they’ve been through rigorous screening to ensure reputation, quality, training, and business practices. For example the GAF Master Elite roofing Certification program certifies only 3% of the contractors that are enrolled in the program. It is in the best interest of the major roofing companies to only certify the best. Incorrect installations can be detrimental to the most reputable products’ reputations.
Different Types of Residential Roofing
There are a variety of options available to homeowners when it comes to changing their roofs. Different types of materials and methods are used in residential roofing. After selecting a skilled roofing contractor who can provide reliable service to their geographic region, homeowners must research the different types of roofing that are available. The roof must be long-lasting that will protect their property and affordable.
- Shingles for Homes
Asphalt shingles remain the most popular roofing material in North America. They are made of either organic felts or fiberglass and fiberglass, with the latter being the most popular among U.S. homeowners. They cost around 80 cents per square feet. Installation is simple, a variety of styles and colors are available and maintenance and repairs are simple processes.
Fiberglass shingles have an elastomeric mat that has top and bottom layers of asphalt and mineral granules. Fiberglass is preferred as a reinforcement, because it makes an incredibly strong shingle. The asphalt is water-resistant and can be able to stick to the fiberglass mat thanks to the mineral granules. Quality varies between manufacturers so the comparison of quality and a discussion with a professional roofer are highly recommended.
Homeowners with the funds to install dimensional laminated shingles. Multiple thicknesses of material are laminated and bonded to a thick base mat making a more robust shingle. The style is usually referred to as architectural shingle. It features shadow lines that look like slate or wood shingle. Many homeowners prefer the three-dimensional appearance, also known as layered. This type of shingle is perfect for hiding any imperfections in your roofing.
- Warranties for Residential Shingles
Asphalt shingles can last for 20 to 50 years, depending on the cost. They are typically covered by a warranty that lasts at minimum 20 years. Shingles installed in hot climates will are less durable. Material, weather and problems with durability may also affect the life expectancy. A roofer should be consulted to determine the best asphalt shingles suitable for their location.
A shingle designed for architectural use typically weighs 50% more than standard asphalt shingle. This increases wind resistance and reduces the likelihood of being warped. Asphalt shingles of standard are designed for 60 mph winds. But architectural shingles are generally designed to withstand winds between and 120 miles per hour. A 25 to 30 year or longer guarantee is normally offered with an architectural shingle used in a residential roofing.
A Residential Roofing Contractor Knows How You Can Protect Your Home
If you’re searching for a residential roofing contractor for an easy repair or want to replace or update the roof on which you have one, finding the company with the appropriate experience isn’t that difficult. Here are some things to keep in mind so that you ensure that you’re getting the best residential roofing contractor for the job.
We all know that Southern California can occasionally have storms that are destructive and create serious issues for homeowners– take for instance, the numerous problems caused by Santa Ana Winds cause. Simple wind damage is only the beginning. Add to that the possibility of wildfires, and it’s very likely that homeowners are now talking with residential roofing contractors about their potential risk of severe property loss. A residential roofing contractor is highly knowledgeable of the best methods of protecting your home from damage and how to enhance its fire-proofing capabilities.
Residential Roofers FAQs
After a hail storm has hit your area, it may or may not be obvious that you need a new roof. While some hail may produce leaks that appear immediately, quite often hail may only fracture your shingles, which leads to premature roof failure. An inspection by a professional roofing contractor can answer this question. If you have a roof that is fifteen years old or older and it starts to show signs of deterioration, or produces leaks, it is time to call your roofing professional for an inspection and consultation.
Choose a member of the
Roofing Contractors Association of Your State
The State of Your State has no licensing requirement in place for roofing contractors at this time (2000 – 2001). RCAT is a twenty-five year old organization that was founded with the expressed purpose of bettering the roofing profession through education and the pursuit of a quality product.
By choosing a member of RCAT to be involved with your project, you are assured that you have a contractor who has had a successful track record in this field. To become a member, a contractor has to produce qualified references and be known to his competitors in the roofing community.
What is a Certified Roofing Contractor?
In the absence of licensing laws in Your State, RCAT has developed a comprehensive testing program. These tests are strictly monitored and require thorough knowledge of commercial roofing, residential roofing, and business and contract law. Certified contractors are leaders in their field who are bringing a proven professionalism to your roofing or re-roofing project.
Certifications are:
CCRC
Certified Commercial Roofing Contractor
CC-RRC
Certified Commercial and Residential Roofing Contractor
CRRC
Certified Residential Roofing Contractor
These certifications are noted in our membership listings.
Getting the estimate
Choosing the right contractor is the most important step. Be sure that you obtain at least three written estimates. These estimates should all be based on the same type and quality of materials. Time needed to complete the project should also be included. Be sure to inquire how work will proceed and how trash will be handled so that you will know what to expect as the job proceeds. Understand the differences in your bids if there are variations. Donft automatically choose the lowest estimate!
Ask for a list of successfully completed projects in your area. Check references and inquire about quality of work performed. If possible, go look at the contractorfs work. Check with the BBB to see if any complaints are unresolved. Ask for written evidence of coverage from the contractorfs insurance carrier. Ask about warranties.
The contract
The agreement can be as simple as a signed proposal. It should have the contractorfs name, address, and phone number. All areas of work and materials to be used should be described. If it is verbally promised, it should be written down. On large jobs where monthly draws will be necessary, a standard AIA contract form, available at most business supply stores, could be a consideration. Whatever document you decide to use, your contractor should supply two copies that you both sign, one of which you should keep. Keep any receipts of money paid. Pay by check.
With a regular sized house, it is considered usual for you to pay one third to one half of the cost of a job at the time that all materials are delivered onto your property. The balance due is then usually paid at the time of successful completion. This varies in different areas and with different contractors but should be worked out and written in your agreement. If you will be paying for this roofing in conjunction with a building loan or insurance claim, or if for any other reason there will be a deferred payment, this should be written down and agreed to by both parties.
Warranties and guarantees of workmanship must be a written part of the contract.
Obtaining a roofing permit
In many communities, a roofing permit is required. Check with your contractor or the permits department at your city hall to obtain information. Be sure it is understood who will obtain and post this permit.
During the job
You have followed your instincts and from the information presented, you have made your choice. You have his handshake, a written and signed proposal, a copy of his insurance, and you have gone over the scope of the work. You have done well; now let that roofer go to work. With proper pre-job paperwork and planning, you have helped to ensure that this upgrading of your buildingfs element protection is effective and long-lasting. It is not unreasonable to expect a daily report from your contractor, but the best thing to do now is have confidence in your choice. If your contractor is a member of the Roofing Contractors Association of Your State, he is pledged to your satisfaction.