Choosing a Roofer in Traverse City, MI

Choosing a Roofer in Traverse City, MI

December 16, 2016

Replacing a roof in winter is not impossible, but it presents challenges. The same is true if you require repair, deicing or other roofing services during cold weather. If you need your roof repaired or replaced now, you need to find a good roofer in Traverse City, MI who understands the conditions and will perform a thorough job. Here are six tips for choosing a roofing contractor:

  • Read online reviews: In the age of Yelp, Google and Angie’s List, you will have no problem finding reviews of roofers you are considering. While it is unlikely that you will find 100 percent positive ratings, having more good reviews than bad is still a promising indicator. When reading, look for patterns. If shoddy work, dishonored estimates or tardiness are consistent themes in the reviews, you are likely better off considering someone else.
  • Ask friends and family: The best way small businesses grow (and you receive good recommendations) is through word-of-mouth from those you trust. Not only will you learn of the most reliable roofing contractors, but you will also discover whom to avoid. This is often the most trustworthy way to find any type of service contractor, and roofing is no different.
  • Check insurance and legal status: Roofers should be on the contractor’s board. If their license expired or you do not find they are registered with the state, you must continue looking. The same is true with insurance. If a roofer does not carry workers’ compensation and liability insurance, that can fall to your homeowner’s policy. Once you receive the insurance information, call the company to confirm that it remains valid.
  • Look beyond price: The temptation is often to go with the cheapest bid. However, that does not serve you if the work is below average or the communication between you and the contractor is horrible. As with many things, you get what you pay for with roofing. Besides evaluating price, also include a consideration of experience and attention to detail. The cheapest price may also arise because the roofer does not pay for insurance or contractor’s fees. It is not worth the risk.
  • Get everything in writing: Everything from the estimate to the final work order should be in writing. This keeps you in control and confirms that there is understanding between you and the contractor. Do not offer funds until you have had a chance to inspect the work and confirm it was completed to your satisfaction.
  • Ask about guarantees: Good roofers offer some type of guarantee. If damage is missed or the recently repaired roof breaches again, your roofer should be willing to attend to that oversight enthusiastically, and without additional charges to you. Include a discussion of what happens if a repair or replacement fails. If there is no guarantee, you should consider another roofer.

If you need a good roofer in Traverse City, MI for repairs, replacement or ice removal, call Qualified Roofing. We offer immediate scheduling if your need is dire!

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