Identifying the right roofing company in Kansas City can feel daunting for homeowners. As a house ages, an outdated appearance reduces curb appeal. A new roof provides a fresh and contemporary look. A roof replacement also reduces the stress and inconvenience of frequent maintenance and untimely repairs common for a weathering roof. At Bill West Roofing, we provide homeowners peace of mind by installing high-quality roofing systems incorporating the latest technological advancements.
Selecting A Roofing Contractor: 8 Questions To Ask
As a homeowner, you should request responses to the following inquiries during your evaluation:
1. Does the roofer have the appropriate licensing and insurance?
A reputable roofing contractor will hold and maintain the required licensing through the Secretary of State while fulfilling local licensing requirements, which vary depending on the municipality. The roofer should also have liability, workers’ compensation, and commercial vehicle insurance coverages to protect your interests. As a homeowner, you have the legal right to request and review proof of insurance before retaining a contractor.
2. What credentials, certifications, and qualifications does the roofer possess?
A skilled roofing company will secure designations from known manufacturers, including GAF, Owens Corning, or CertainTeed. These industry-recognized certifications give the homeowner peace of mind that the roofer has received extensive training with corresponding roofing products and adheres closely to the strictest standards for workmanship excellence. An established roofer will have excellent reviews from satisfied customers.
3. What background and experience does the contractor have with roofing?
Many contractors are generalists. Some call themselves “roofers” when, in fact, roofing is only a fraction of the work they perform for homeowners. Others are actual specialists in roofing. To them, the roofing profession is their core, if not exclusive, focus. A homeowner is better served to choose an expert rather than a novice. A roofer with an extensive background will, more likely than not, know how to deliver the right solutions.
4. Does the roofer use subcontractors or employees as workers?
A subcontractor is an independent individual or entity retained to fulfill a responsibility on behalf of the general contractor. The roofer who uses subcontractors does not have direct supervisory authority over the subcontractor. Why does this matter? The roofing company is beholden to the subcontractor’s availability to complete a project. Generally, a homeowner is better off retaining a roofer who does not rely on subcontractors.
5. Does the contractor offer labor and/or material warranty coverage?
An established roofing company may provide warranties when replacing your roof. They may provide a labor warranty to address quality issues for a defined period (1 to 10 years) after completing the roof repair or replacement. This safeguard gives the homeowner peace of mind that any workmanship error will be resolved. Additionally, most reputable roofing manufacturers extend a material warranty and, in some cases, comprehensive coverage to include labor, for the expected lifespan of a roofing product.
6. Will the roofer perform a comprehensive roofing inspection?
A trustworthy roofing contractor knows that a thorough evaluation of a roofing system will target the root causes of any issues. This will require examining all areas, including shingles, sublayers, flashings, fascias, soffits, gutters, vents, insulation, and the roof’s framework to identify any damage or excess wear and tear. This information will generally be compiled into a written inspection report for the homeowner to review with the roofer.
7. Can the contractor offer a free written, no-obligation estimate?
A responsible roofing company will provide a written quote upon request. However, the homeowner should carefully evaluate the thoroughness of the bid. Does it contain a reasonably accurate price quote broken out by line item? Are there allowances for change orders? How does that process work? Is there an expected project timeline from start to finish? A written estimate sets forth reasonable expectations of both parties should they work together.
8. What types of roofing materials does the roofer recommend?
Most roofing companies install asphalt shingles. However, few roofers have the knowledge and experience to expertly attach other roofing materials, such as metal, slate, or wood. Verify the credentials of the roofer to work with the product you prefer. Even asphalt shingles come in a wide variety of options (3-tab, architectural, designer, performance, etc.). Learn more about what brands the contractor uses for roof replacement projects.
Selecting The Ideal Roofing Company In Kansas City
As a conscientious homeowner, you value skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail. At Bill West Roofing, we meet the requirements of the most demanding homeowners with artisanal workmanship using the finest roofing materials. We want your home to have optimal curb appeal. Trust us to deliver the ideal roofing solutions.
Contact Bill West Roofing today to learn more about our residential roofing services or to schedule a complimentary consultation.