Before They Even Touch Your Roof: What to Ask
Alright, so you've got a leaky roof, or maybe it's just time for a new one. You start calling around, getting names from friends, neighbors, or the internet. But how do you really tell the good ones from the not-so-good? Don't just jump on the first bid you get. You need to ask some pointed questions right from the start. This isn't about being difficult; it's about protecting your biggest investment, your home.
Are you licensed and insured in North Carolina? This isn't something you can skip. For jobs over $30,000, they absolutely need a general contractor's license, and often a specific roofing license for smaller projects too. Even more important, they need liability insurance to cover any property damage that might happen and workers' comp to protect their crew if someone gets hurt on your property. Ask for proof, and please, don't just take their word for it. Call their insurance carrier to verify everything.
How long have you been in business under this name? Longevity really matters here. A company that's been around for, say, ten years or more in Wake Forest has seen it all. They've built up a reputation, good or bad. Someone who just popped up last year might be fantastic, sure, but they might also be gone next year when you need warranty work. Think about it.
Can you give me some local references? I'm talking about people right here in Wake Forest or Youngsville, not someone way across the state. Ask for a couple of recent jobs they've finished that you can actually drive by. Even better, ask if you can call the homeowner directly. A good, reputable contractor won't hesitate for a second.
Who will actually be doing the work? Your own employees or subcontractors? It's not necessarily a deal-breaker if they use subs, but you absolutely need to know. If they do use subcontractors, ask how they screen them and if those subs are also insured. You just want to know who's going to be up on your roof, right?
What kind of warranty do you offer on labor and materials? You'll usually get a manufacturer's warranty on the shingles themselves, but what about the contractor's warranty on their actual workmanship? You'll want at least a 5-year labor warranty, and 10 years is even better. Make sure you get all of this in writing.
Decoding the Quote: What to Look For
Okay, you've asked your questions, and now you've got a few quotes in hand. Don't just stare at the bottom line. A super cheap quote can actually end up costing you a lot more down the road. Here's what a solid quote from someone like Wake Forest Roofing Solutions should include:
A Really Detailed Scope of Work: It should clearly list every single thing they're going to do. Removing old shingles? Check. Replacing damaged decking? How many sheets are included before they charge extra? What type of underlayment are they using? Flashing materials? Ventilation? All of it, every last detail.
Material Specifications: What brand and type of shingles will they use? What color? What kind of drip edge, flashing, and vents? Don't let them just say