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Having a new roof installed is a big job, and one it is essential to have done right. If your roof has been installed incorrectly or the materials used were of inferior quality, it can cause significant damage to the rest of your house in the years to come.

Finding a roofer like Frisco Roofer who can do the work properly is a must, and to that end, here are the top ten tips for choosing a roofing contractor:

1. Do Your Research

Before you start looking for contractors, do a little research to find out what you should expect in terms of pricing and completion and wait times in your area. This will give you more leverage when it comes time to talk to roofing companies.

2. Ask for Recommendations

Word-of-mouth is one of the most reliable ways to find a good contractor. Ask friends, family, co-workers and neighbors about their experiences, and whether there are companies they would recommend you get in touch with — or avoid.

3. Find Contractors with Relevant Experience

Depending on what style of house you own, your roofing requirements may vary significantly. A company that mostly specializes in flat roofing will not be the best choice if you have a conventional asphalt shingle roof.

You should also prioritize contractors with experience in your city. If you live in Toronto, hire professional roofers that understands the local environmental factors that cause wear and tear on your roof.

4. Look for Contractors Who Offer a Warranty

Responsible contractors demonstrate their confidence in their own work by offering customers a warranty for a set period of time. If you don’t make sure that your contractor offers a warranty not only on the materials used, but on the work itself, you might be left having to cover major expenses down the road.

5. Check References

Asking for references is a standard procedure in the world of roofing, so don’t be afraid to ask a contractor you are considering hiring for at least three references from people whose homes they have worked on recently.

roof2 10 Tips for Choosing a Roofing Contractor

6. Ask for Itemized Price Lists

When you ask a contractor for a quote, they’ll typically start by giving you a total number ($6,000 for the entire job, for example). This price will cover a range of expenses, and asking for an itemized list will help you understand where your money is going — and give you a chance to query any suspiciously large line items.

7. Shop Around for Quotes

Never settle for the first contractor who gives you a reasonable-sounding quote. As with any other major renovation, shop around and find out what the competition has to offer. You could shave thousands of dollars off the final price by doing so.

8. Understand What Materials are Needed for Your Roof

In any home renovation situation, the more you know the more leverage you have. Understanding the basics around what materials are available and what the pros and cons of different types of shingles and roofing membranes are will make you better equipped to judge the difference between a good deal and a bad one.

9. Check for Insurance

Roofing is dangerous work, and the last thing you want is to end up being liable for injuries caused by accidents on your roof. If a roofing contractor has valid workman’s compensation insurance, you will be covered in the case of a fall or other accident happening on your property.

10. Don’t Let Yourself be Pressured

Finally, remember that even the best roofing contractor is selling a service. Don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself — a roof is an essential component of your home, and a respectful, professional contractor will acknowledge your right to ask questions and seek clarity.

Every year, thousands of complaints are lodged against roofing contractors who have not followed through on their promises. Choosing the wrong contractor can mean that your roof installation takes longer and costs more than it should, so follow these ten tips and make sure the company you hire gets the job done right the first time.

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