Tips for Picking the Best Pro Roofer in Palo Alto and Nearby Areas

One can liken the roof of a house to a lady’s hair—they’re seen as the crowning glory, worthy of attention and maintenance. A visually appealing, highly functional roof can add value to any home when it’s up for sale. However, the most durable or most appealing of materials will not stand very long with poor installation. It’s important, thus, to consult only with a licensed and reputable roofer in Palo Alto or nearby areas. RealEstate.com knows a thing or two about bogus contractors, as evidenced in this short excerpt from an article posted on the site.

“You can easily find a roofing contractor in your neighborhood, on the internet, or even by just asking your friends. But getting the right one to work on your home is much harder. Between storm chasers and back-of-the-truck companies, the roofing industry has larger than its fair share of scams, poor workmanship, and overly expensive installations. For homeowners and real estate agents alike, it’s a murky swamp to cross.”

The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) is in the business of helping homeowners choose established and licensed roofers within their community. An FAQ section on the roofing page of About.com has published several tips taken from the NRCA on how to pick a reputable roofing contractor.

First, check if their proposals are detailed and broken down into specifics. The NRCA indicates that such proposals show the company’s dedication to do honest business. Here is a sample list to serve as a guide for determining a proposal’s credibility:

• Type of roof covering, manufacturer, and color
• Materials to be included, e.g. underlayment, ice dam protection membrane
• Scope of work
• Installation method
• Approximate starting and completion dates
• Payment procedures
• Length of warranty and details of coverage

 

Second, the contractor should be able to provide clear-cut cost estimates of materials, with adequate justification. For example, if a contractor presents estimates for an asphalt shingle roof replacement where the prices vary from other estimates, there is a good chance that something is amiss. Reputable roofers in Sunnyvale and other locales will give out realistic price estimates without sacrificing their guarantee for professional workmanship.

Third, the contractor should provide warranties. There are warranties for different types of roofs, which the NRCA highlights in its consumer advisory bulletin. Most contractors offer workmanship warranties that typically cover installation and other related issues. If a roofer won’t offer warranties, it’s time to search for someone else. Homeowners have the right to demand workmanship and material warranties for their roofing projects.

Any roofing project is a major investment, and there’s no better way to ensure top-quality service than enlisting the help of a professional roofer like Shelton Roofing.

(Source: Get the Right Roofing Contractor with This Easy Hiring Checklist, RealEstate.com, August 22, 2013)