Your roofing contractor works for you. There are things you want them to know about you and your home to make sure you get the products and services you need. However, there are things that they wish you knew, too. knowledge that can help your job go more smoothly, save you money, and help you be more satisfied with the outcome of the work as soon as it is finished and for decades to come. Here’s our list of the five most essential things roofing contractors wish you knew:
1. Some Things Are Not Repairable
Naturally, you’d prefer to repair your roof instead of replacing it. Roof repair is faster, less expensive, and creates less waste. When it makes sense, a roof service company should always recommend repairs over total roof replacement. However, some things aren’t repairable. If large sections of the roof deck below your surface roof materials have rotted, a roofing contractor may be unable to save the existing roof.
In some cases, an issue might be repairable, but it may not make sense to solve the problem with repair instead of replacement. Suppose you are on year 30 of a roof that was only expected to last 20 years. You have a roof problem for which repair would be extensive and expensive. In that case, repairing it might be a waste of money, knowing that the money you spend on those fixes may only buy you another year or two before you have to pay for a total replacement.
This situation is like replacing the transmission on a car with 300,000 miles. If you spend that money today, will you still likely need to buy a replacement vehicle soon? If so, taking the transmission money and putting it toward your next car may make more sense than using it to eek a few more months out of the current one. The same logic applies to roofs. A repair on a roof at the end of its useful life may cost you more than just replacing it now because you end up paying the repair bill, followed quickly by the replacement expense.
Talk with your contractor about what they can repair and whether spending money on fixes for an older roof makes sense. A knowledgeable roofing services provider can help you evaluate the decision to see what makes sense for your budget today and in the future.
2. The Sooner you Spot and Address Problems, the Better
When it comes to your roof, the conventional wisdom that what you don’t know can’t hurt you is not true. If your roof leaks, water damages your roof and roof deck, whether or not you are tracking the problem. The sooner you spot potential roof issues and address them, the more likely your contractor can fix them with a minor repair instead of a major overhaul or roof replacement. Don’t delay getting expert help if you think your roof has a problem. Addressing it quickly can lead to a much better, less expensive outcome.
3. Routine Maintenance is Vital to Your Roof’s Health and Longevity
Properly caring for your roof can extend its life and prevent more extensive issues. A trusted residential roofing contractor will help you understand the regular maintenance needed to help your roof last as long as possible. This maintenance includes cleaning your gutters, promptly removing snow build-up, and replacing loose shingles immediately. Your roofer can help you with all of these tasks.
4. The Cheapest Roof Isn’t Always the Least Expensive
Some roofing customers automatically ask for the cheapest option for a new roof. Roof replacement is expensive, so we understand the temptation to reduce costs whenever possible. But the cheapest roof today may not be the least expensive option over the next ten or twenty years. Spending a bit more on your roof might mean an extra five or ten years before your next roof replacement or avoiding the cost of annoying, expensive repairs in a few years.
Your roofing contractor will understand that money is a concern. Don’t be afraid to ask about cheaper options. But also inquire about longer-term considerations like expected lifespan, suitability for harsh weather conditions, or warranty length. These factors may make it worthwhile to spend slightly more now to get more time and security out of the roof you buy.
5. Not all Roofing Companies are the Same
When it’s time for roof repairs or replacement, you might be tempted to simply do an internet search for “roofing companies near me” and go with the first one that pops up. Or maybe you’ve seen a service truck in your area and copied the phone number off the side. You might find a great contractor, but it can be a recipe for disappointment. You want a roofing company you can trust and that understands your needs.
National companies with a branch in your area may not know local climate considerations. Salt Lake City roofing contractors are part of your local community. They understand the conditions your roof needs to withstand, and it also means they have a strong interest in creating satisfied customers.
Make sure your roof company is licensed and bonded. If paying for the cost of a roof replacement feels out-of-reach, look for roofing companies that offer payment plans or financing. Also, consider how long a company has been in business and how experienced their crews are.
Not all roofing companies are created equal. Your choice can affect your satisfaction with your roof work, so be thoughtful about the decision and find a roofing contractor you trust.
Now that you’ve read our list, you know the things that roofing companies most wish their clients understood. This knowledge will make you a better roofing customer and make it easier for your roof services company to help you with your roofing needs.
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