For any business owner, a strong, reliable roof is more than just a feature – it’s a foundation. It shields your valuable assets, including employees and customers, from the elements.
Neglected roofs can lead to leaks, energy waste, structural damage, and costly repairs. All can cripple your business.
Choosing a quality roofing contractor is crucial, as poor-quality work can worsen current issues. That’s why we’ve created this guide. Take a look at the key things business owners should watch for when choosing a roofing company.
Assess Your Roofing Needs: Building a Solid Foundation
Before looking for the ideal commercial roofing contractor, take a moment to assess your specific needs. Thinking through a few key factors will help you narrow down your search.
First, know your roofing type. Contractors will ask and you can help by knowing whether you have a flat or sloped roof. Identifying your roof type and roofing system will help you find contractors with the expertise and experience needed for your specific project.
Next, determine the project scope. Are you dealing with unplanned repairs caused by leaks or storm damage? Or are you proactively investing in a new roof installation?
Identifying the scope of the project will help you prioritize and budget accordingly. Minor repairs may require a different approach than a full-scale replacement.
Finally, establish your budget and timeline. Consider the cost of materials, labor, and any potential permits or inspections. Setting a realistic timeline allows you to plan for potential disruptions and ensure you find a contractor who can complete your project on schedule.
Thorough Research Helps Build Trust Through Reputation
Finding the right roofing contractor requires due diligence on your part. To ensure you’re partnering with a trustworthy and qualified professional, start by leveraging the power of your network.
Seek referrals from business associates, property owners, and industry professionals who have recently completed similar roofing projects. Their firsthand experience can provide valuable insights into different contractors’ quality of work, reliability, and overall reputation.
Research potential contractors online. Review their websites for information about their services, experience, and qualifications. Look for project portfolios, client testimonials, and certifications. These details speak to the contractor’s expertise.
Finally, prioritize contractors with a proven track record of success in projects similar to yours. Verified credentials demonstrate their commitment to quality and adherence to industry standards.
By taking the time to research and compare different contractors, you can build confidence in your decision.
Verify Contractor Credentials and Insurance
Once you’ve shortlisted potential contractors, take a minute to verify their licensing and insurance. You only want to hire contractors who operate legally and responsibly.
Start by confirming they hold a valid state license for commercial roofing work. This license ensures they meet the minimum qualifications and standards to handle your project safely.
Next, verify they carry adequate general liability and workers’ compensation insurance coverage. Remember to ask for proof of insurance certificates and verify the coverage limits and expiration dates.
By taking these steps, you’ll ensure your project adheres to legal requirements and protects you from unforeseen circumstances.
Request Quotes and Compare Proposals
For a fair and comprehensive evaluation, request written proposals from at least three contractors. This allows you to compare apples to apples and identify the best value for your needs.
When reviewing the proposals, pay close attention to several key elements, including their proposed solutions to your roofing issues. Do the contractors offer different solutions to address your specific roofing needs, or are they presenting a one-size-fits-all approach?
Make sure you know what materials they suggest using. You want high-quality materials appropriate for your roof and climate.
What about warranties? Ask about warranty terms and conditions. Do they cover both materials and labor?
Earlier we mentioned timelines. Roofing contractors are busy people. Ask for an estimate of how long the project will take. Are their timeframes realistic and compatible with your needs?
By carefully analyzing these key elements, you can understand each contractor’s proposed approach, value proposition, and overall suitability for your project.
Check References and Reviews to Get Customer Insights
After comparing proposals and narrowing down your options, it’s time to look at the real-world experiences of past clients.
You can request contact references. Reach out to them directly to inquire about their experience with the company. Ask specific questions about the project timeline, communication, quality of workmanship, and overall satisfaction.
Reviews are another way to learn more about the contractors you’re interested in hiring. Read online reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and industry-specific forums. Read testimonials on the contractor’s website.
This extra layer of research will help you build trust and confidence in your chosen contractor. You’ll have confidence you’re partnering with a company that prioritizes quality, communication, and delivering exceptional results.
Prioritize Quality Roofing Over Price
We deliberately did not mention pricing when we discussed quotes and proposals. It’s a subject that deserves a little more depth.
Cost naturally plays a role in your decision. But remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best investment. True value goes beyond the initial price tag.
Consider the overall value proposition offered by each contractor. Include these key factors:
- Quality materials
- Skilled workmanship
- Comprehensive warranties
Quality materials cost more, but last longer. Skilled workmanship comes at a price. A contractor that employs experienced, trained, and certified roofing professionals who prioritize quality workmanship may charge more for their services.
While all roofs come with manufacturer’s warranties, not all contractor warranties are alike. A comprehensive warranty goes beyond materials and labor, and it may cost more if you choose to purchase.
Instead of solely focusing on the bottom line, choose a contractor who prioritizes these factors. It guarantees your new roof’s longevity and performance.
Partner with Landmark Roofing for a Roof That Stands the Test of Time
Selecting a quality roofing contractor is a crucial decision that impacts your business’s future.
At Landmark Roofing, we’ve exceeded our client’s expectations for years with our attention to detail, unwavering commitment to quality, and A+ BBB rating. As trusted partners with national roofing supply brands, we offer the expertise and resources needed to safeguard your investment.
Reach out today for a free estimate
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After starting his first business at age 26, Artie Hendricks partnered with his best friend Rob Calhan and they have assembled a team of skilled and conscientious friends to be the core of Landmark Roofing. He largely credits his father’s strong and consistent work ethic and his father’s best friend Jerry, who owns a construction company and trained him through his first building experiences. Artie has since advanced through degrees in architecture, auto-CAD and construction management to build a business that prides itself on the care it shows for its work and its customers’ satisfaction.
