How to Choose the Best Roof Estimate and Contractor
The typical life expectancy of a maintained roofing system
is anywhere from 15 to 30 years. Some shingle manufacturers advertise that
their shingles can simply have new shingles placed directly on top of the
existing shingles, although this is not the best solution. Many roofs that
have been damaged due to age, weather, mold, or fungus often need new
plywood sheathing replaced as well. It is at this time which other
improvements to the attic, insulation, and roof structure can easily be
made to enhance the comfort of the home.
Very often when a roof has had a leak, the trusses and other supporting
components of the roof have also received substantial damage. At this
point a homeowner would probably experience a large shock when a new roof
estimate is given. It is very important to disclose to a prospective
contractor any leaks that have occurred in the past. With this
information, the roofing contractor will be able to provide a more
accurate and realistic roof estimate which can then be compared to other
roof estimates. Should the homeowner choose a "to good to be true"
estimate and later unforeseen hidden damage is discovered, the price quote
for the job will null and void. This is usually listed in the fine print
which very few individuals actually read.
An additional complication may be that the original roofing contractor
refuses to continue the roof work until the homeowner accedes to the much
higher roof estimate and pays additional moneys before work is resumed.
Should the homeowner opt to switch to a different roofing contractor, some
would not guarantee the work due to the quality of prior work being
unknown or even refuse to take the job.
While these scenarios are few and rare, they do happen across the country.
The easiest method for a homeowner to improve the chances of selecting a
reliable, fair, and professional roofing contractor is to contact the
Better Business Bureau and other organizations with which the roofing
contractor is affiliated. The longer length of time a builder or
contractor has been in business is a good indication of reliability and
quality, especially in smaller communities where word of mouth can destroy
a business overnight.
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