9 Questions to Ask Your Roofer Before You Replace Your Roof

A failing roof on your home or building is nothing to ignore. Drains and leaks that get through the roof and into the structure of the building are creating more and more issues that will cost you a lot of money in the long run. 

Unless you’re a developer or an owner of a lot of investment properties, odds are you are only going to put one roof on in your lifetime. Maybe two. So how do you know the right person to choose? Here are some questions that will help you figure out who is the right roofer for you and your building. 

1. What is the Status of Your Licensing and Insurance?

To work in the State of Illinois the roofer needs to have a license with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). There are limited licenses, unlimited licenses, and commercial/industrial licenses. Make sure your roofer has the correct licensing. The roofer should also have general liability insurance. 

2. How Long Have You Been In Business?

You want to make sure you’re dealing with an established business and not some guys who say they have a roofing company. Not that new business owners won’t do a good job but with an established business, you get the experience that newbies just don’t have. 

3. What Roofing Materials Do You Use?

Materials matter. Do you have a clay roof? Is it made of wood shingles or synthetic? This is another reason you want a reputable roofer. They’ll know what materials work best for your home and educate you about your options. 

4. What Are Your Workmanship Warranty Details?

Warranties are a good thing on purchases like new roofing. Ask them what their warranty includes regarding materials and labor. 

5. Do You Remove the Old Roof?

You don’t want to be searching for someone to remove your old roof because you signed a contract with a roofer that doesn’t do removals. 

6. What Is Your Cleanup Process?

Some roofers have left messes behind, so you want to be sure you are aware of every step from the moment they show up with the shingles to the second they drive away. 

7. Do You Need Any Permits?

If they do need permits, is it your responsibility to get those? If so, how long do you have? Permits take time and red tape so it’s good to know what you need so you can start working on getting the permits needed. 

8. How Long Will the Job Take?

It’s important to know how long the roofers will take to complete the job. Having a new roof put on your home will be a bit of a disruption but it’s worth it. Asking this question will help you be prepared for the installers to be on your roof. 

9. Can You Provide References from Recent Jobs?

You can look online in many cases, but if you can’t find the company online, then you want to see references. Actually, if you don’t see the company online, I would beware. It doesn’t take much to get a website today. 

Do You Need a Roof Replacement in Kankakee, IL?

If you live in Kankakee, Frankfort, Manteno, or surrounding areas and suspect that your roof needs replacing, contact us at M&B Roofing and we’ll be happy to come out and take a look. We’re provided roof replacements for homes in the area for over twenty years and we’re happy to bring our expertise and experience to your job.