Roof repair and roof maintenance are certainly not DIY projects – they are projects that, if you know what’s good for you, you should entrust only to an experienced contractor. Putting a skilled team on the job means you can focus on things other than the complicated technical aspects of the project, which gives you the time and space to better plan out your budgeting and scheduling instead.
It’s difficult to find a competent and reliable contractor, and many homeowners do struggle to hire a quality contractor who will perform at a high level from start to finish. But while finding a contractor who will get your job done right may be a challenge, if you know what to look for it won’t be as painful a process as you might originally have thought:
Know what you want, and then get estimates. Don’t be vague about what you’d like to achieve. If you’re thinking, say, of switching from asphalt shingle roofing to metal, then decide on that before you talk to a contractor for estimates. Explore your neighborhood for roofs similar to your ideal one, and ask for references from the owners. Or, ask friends, relatives and coworkers for referrals.
Interview at least three contractors, and choose the right one for your project. Ask questions – a lot of them – to better gauge a potential contractor’s expertise and general capabilities, and request written bids. Make sure the bids specify comparable materials and tasks. Don’t immediately assume the materials will be of similar quality. Also, bear in mind that you should not expect your project to start right away as the most competent contractors are often booked in full several weeks, if not months, ahead.
Choose the right contractor. Check for licenses, and read reviews. Check the Better Business Bureau and local records to get a better, more honest understanding of the contractor and the quality of the work. Check references, too, to ensure the contractor is the right person for your job and will work well with you. Throughout the project’s duration, keep communication lines with your contactor open, and update yourself on the project’s progress frequently.
Get the proper permits. Don’t try to save your money by agreeing to have the work done without permits. Getting the permits is your contractor’s job, and local ordinance violations won’t just leave you subject to fines if you’re caught. The work may not even be completed up to code. Your contract must detail deadlines, payments and the specific materials to be used; any changes that are made to the original plans must also documented closely.
Map out a payment schedule. Include a payment schedule for both your initial and progress payments, and make sure that you set aside at least 10% to 15% of your total budget for contingencies. Secure copies of receipts for materials and lien releases from all who are involved in the project. Take note of insurance coverage and who pays for what if something isn’t done to specs. Don’t make your final payment until you’re 100% happy with the work.
If your residential roofing requires maintenance or repair, Pressure Point Roofing Eugene, LLC, is here to assist and serve you. Call us today at 541-688-7663, or reach us through our online contact form. We serve homes in and around Springfield, OR.