Best Santa Barbara Roofing Contractor

How to select the best Roofing Contractor There are several factors to consider when you need to hire a roofing contractor to perform work for you. You want to ensure that you hire an experienced, capable contractor and not get ripped off. The process will be slightly different if you are installing a roof during new construction, or if you are repairing or replacing an existing roof. The initial questions involve what roofing material is appropriate for your project. Let’s first look at new construction.

Roofing New Construction

If the roofing material has not been selected by yourself, the architect, the local architectural review board, etc. then you will need to look at the trade-off for the various types of roofs. The trade-offs will include:

• Aesthetics/Design • Budget • Climate • Colors • Life cycle • Maintenance • Quality • Warranty • Weight/structural considerations

This will likely involve an iterative process to determine what is the appropriate roofing system for your project. Assuming local codes don’t require a specific roofing material, there are several basic roofing choices and several sub-choices within the basic roofing material types:

• Asphalt shingle • Built-up roofing • Concrete Shingle • Metal • Slate • Tile • Wood Shake

When you interview a roofing contractor, they should be well versed in the various types of roofing materials and be able to clearly explain the differences in applications, costs, life expectancy, warranty, maintenance, etc. There may be specific reasons that climate may be a factor in your choice such as in high snow areas, and in areas with high winds. The roofing contractor should give you a good sense that he understands and is able to explain the trade-offs of each of the various roofing materials.

Roofing Repair

Roofing repair may require the repair or replacement of a portion of the roof or the replacement of the entire roof. Of particular concern should be the condition of the roof sheathing and structure underneath the roofing material. The contractor should be able to clearly show you the area(s) that need repair and why. If only a portion of the roof needs repair, can it be done without damaging the balance of the roof and will it blend in with the remainder of the existing roof.

If the entire roof needs to be replaced does the contractor advise removal of the existing roof or installing over the existing roofing materials. In general, although more expensive, the removal of the existing roof and the installation of a new roof will provide a better, longer lasting job. In addition, the existing roof may be in such poor condition that installing a new roof over it would severely reduce the life expectancy of the new roof. Be aware that building codes require that a new roof cannot be installed if there are two layers of existing roofing materials. The contractor should be able to articulate the trade-offs between these two approaches and provide a detailed estimate/proposal of the costs differences. Make sure that the cost to remove the old roofing materials is included in their contract.

Different roofing types and manufacturers will carry different length warranties. This applies to the roofing materials but the contractor should also warrant his installation labor for a period of time. Understand what these time frames are and how it affects your decision process.

The Contractor

In general it is preferable to hire a contractor whose office is near your project, such that scheduling and service issues should be prompt. The longer a company has been in business is a plus. A newer company isn’t necessarily a red flag, but their experience and references should be checked more closely. You should make sure that the contractor is licensed, carries the appropriate liability and workmen’s compensation insurance and has bonding capability. He should be willing to provide the necessary permits for the project.

They should be able to provide references of similar projects that have been completed recently. Ask for a reference where there was a problem that the contractor had to respond to. Check these references to assess his performance and if the customer would hire him again. Also ask for references of general contractors they have worked for and research this performance. Ask what local and trade organizations they belong to and check these references.

Make sure that the contractor will provide a written estimate and contract. Review these to make sure the materials to be used are clearly spelled out and if there are exclusions that may increase the price. Understand the progress payment schedule to ensure that it reflects percentage job completion. Make sure that final payment is not required until job completion, final inspection, and delivery of all lien releases from the contractor and any sub-contractors they may use.

Understand what guarantees the contractor provides and make sure these are in writing. Ask if a maintenance program is recommended and if they will provide this service or provide you with a written plan to ensure the longevity of your roof.

When you have selected the contractor make sure that:

• You have a detailed written contract specifying price, payment terms, schedule, guarantee, etc. • Inspect the job to make sure that progress payments reflect work completed • Do not make a final payment until the job is complete and there has been a final inspection • Do not make a final payment until all material and labor lien releases have been provided

If you take your time, understand the issues, check references, and make sure the contract specifies that the contractor will perform the work that you want done, you will minimize problems.

http://www.santabarbararoofing1.com Tom Davidson is a seasoned real estate developer. He has hired many, many contractors for both residential and commercial projects. He is an expert in selecting the best roofing contractor.