5 Reasons You Should Get a New Roof and 10 Questions to Ask the Roofer

Do you need a new roof? Here are some of the things to look for that can help you determine if a new roof is what you need.

1. SHINGLES

Are your shingles missing, torn or broken?

2. CURLED SHINGLES

Are your shingles cupped or curled on the edges?

3. MOLD or MOSS

Are there large areas of mold or moss on your roof?

4. WORN SHINGLES

Do any of your shingles look like they are balding or missing the granule coating?

5.  LEAKS

Are there leaks in your home windows or ceiling?

6. SHEATHING

Is the sheathing on your roof rotted or soft?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may need new roofing.  So, now it is time to hire a professional roofer?  How do you find the right roofer for your home? Look for a licensed contractor that offers professional roofing services.  Ask questions.  You don't just want to hire someone out of a phone book that you know nothing about.  Here is a list of 10 questions you should ask your prospective roofer:

1. ARE YOU LICENSED AND WILL I RECEIVE A WRITTEN ESTIMATE?

This is the most important question  you should ask.  In most states, roofers must be licensed in order to perform work on your home.  Find out the code requirements in your area.  If contractors need to be licensed in your state, make sure whoever you hire, their license is current.

Always get a written estimate from your roofer.  This should include removal or old roof, adding the newone, pricing for plywood that may be used to replace rotten or soft spots, and anything else that may occur.

2. DO YOU HAVE WORKMAN'S COMP AND GENERAL LIABILITY INSURANCE?

Make sure whoever you hire has workman's comp insurance on their business.  Otherwise,  if an employee becomes injured while fixing your roof, you may be liable.  The general liability insurance will cover your property in case the contractor causes damage to your home.  Always ask to see certificates.  If you are ever uncertain of the validity of the certificates, you can always call the insurance company.

3. WILL OLD ROOF BE REMOVED?

Do not allow roofers to shingle over your old roof.  This may save time for them, but you can have hidden soft spots under those shingles that may need to be repaired which can cause big problems for you in the future. Always have old shingles removed before applying a new roof.

4. WILL YOU BE INSTALLING DRIP EDGE OR EDGE METAL?

This is a small piece of aluminum that extends past the roof and allows runoff to flow into the gutters rather than behind it,  and will prevent water damage.

5. ARE YOUR LADDERS GOING TO BE STABILIZED?

This is important because it can effect the liability  It is important that the method that is used to get onto  your roof be a secure one.  Stabilizers should be used on all roofing jobs.  They are used to keep the weight of extension ladders off of your home's gutters.  The roof won't do any good if the gutters are torn and damaged.

7. WILL YOU BE BRINGING A DUMPSTER AND WHERE WILL YOU BE PUTTING IT?

The old roofing material has to go somewhere and you don't want it on your lawn,  The company you hire to do your roofing should always supply a container to cart away your old roof.  They should also let you know where it will be placed and get the proper permits for it.  They should also let you know where it will be placed.  Dumpsters are heavy and can crack your driveway if not properly placed.  Get details of how it will be placed as well.  Also ask how your landscaping will be protected.

8. BAD WEATHER

Ask your roofer how they will prep your home in case of bad weather, including long term bad weather.  Will they use tarps or plastic?  The last thing you need is rain, sleet, hail or snow to get into your home.  This can cause major interior damage.  Find out if they are willing to come out in case of an emergency where the tarps or coverings are blown up by high winds.

9. DO YOU HAVE A LOCAL ADDRESS AND PHONE

If you to Florida after a hurricane, chances are you will see a lot of contractor trucks roaming the streets, looking for work.  Many may be legit, but many won't.  Be sure whoever is offering their roofing services is local to your area.

10. WHAT IS MY WARRANTY

There should be a minimum 25 year warranty on your roof.

The final question that I want to add is 

WHO DO I COMMUNICATE WITH?

Always find out who the GO TO person on the job site will be and who the SECOND person is, in case that person isn't on site or available  You need to know who to contact in case of an emergency.  You may come home one day and find your driveway blocked with materials, tarps missing with a rain storm imminent, etc.  So it is important to have 2 contact numbers.


I hope these questions will help you to find the perfect roofer for your home.


Disclosure:  This is a sponsored post.