HOW TO PREPARE
- How long have you been in business? Once hail season begins, the number of roofing companies double, with that same number disappearing once the season is over. It's important to find a roofing partner that has been in business before, during, and after the hail season. DK Haney Roofing has been in business and since 1991.
- What is your license number? Starting a roofing company takes more than a new magnetic sign for the side of a truck. Many states require roofing contractors to carry licenses to engage in construction work. A list of state licensing requirements can be found the National Contractor License Service website.
- How much insurance do you carry? Any contractor allowed to work on your home needs to be insured. DK Haney Roofing carries over $1,000,000 in insurance coverage to protect your home while we are working there.
- Do you carry workers' compensation for your crew? Workers' compensation protects employees should they become injured on the job site. If your roofing contractor does not provide workers' compensation, you could be potentially liable if the case of an accident.
- What is your company's address and main telephone number? It is vital that the company you trust with your roofing is established and can be contacted after the crew has left and work is complete. A permanent place of business and existing telephone number can help provide peace of mind that the company is legitimate.
- What is your rating with the Better Business Bureau? The Better Business Bureau provides up-to-date listings of trustworthy businesses in your area, but there is more to consider. Ask the roofing company what grade it currently holds (just like school, A - F) and if it is an Accredited Business with the BBB. See DK Haney Roofing's rating.
- Will you provide a written estimate for my records? A verbally quoted price might seem attractive when it's given, but there are no assurances that price will remain the same. Ask for a written estimate of all work, materials, and labor costs before agreeing to have your home worked on.
There are lots of variable when it comes to replacing your roof, and making the wrong decision can be very expensive. Here at DK Haney Roofing, we understand the importance of partnering with the right roofing contractor, so we've put together a Roofing Service Guide to help you understand your options. Download our free Roofing Services Guide.
How can a home owner recognize when a roof system has problems? All too often, roof system problems are discovered after leaking or other serious damage occurs. Periodic (twice-a-year) inspections often can uncover cracked, warped or missing shingles; loose seams and deteriorated flashings; excessive surface granules accumulating in the gutters or downspouts; and other visible signs of roof system problems. Indoors, look for cracked paint, discolored plasterboard and peeling wallpaper as signs of damaged roof areas.
What are my options if I decide to reroof? You have two basic options: You can choose a complete replacement of the roof system, involving a tear-off of your existing roof system, or re-cover the existing roof system, involving only the installation of a new roof system. If you've already had one re-cover installed on your original roof system, check with a professional roofing contractor. In many instances, building code requirements allow no more than one roof system re-cover before a complete replacement is necessary.
My roof leaks. Do I need to have it replaced completely? Not necessarily. Leaks can result from flashings that have come loose or a section of the roof system being damaged. A complete roof system failure, however, generally is irreversible and a result of improper installation or choice of materials or the roof system installation is inappropriate for the home or building.
Can I do the work myself? Most work should not be done yourself. Professional roofing contractors are trained to safely and efficiently repair or replace roof systems. You can damage your roof system by using improper roofing techniques and severely injure yourself by falling off or through the roof.
Maintenance performed by home and building owners should be confined to inspecting roof systems during the fall and spring to check for cracked or curling shingles and cleaning gutters filled with dead leaves and other debris. If you must inspect your roof system yourself, use a firmly braced or tied-off ladder equipped with rubber safety feet. Wear rubber-soled shoes and stay on the ladder (and off the roof system), if possible.
How long can I expect my roof system to last? Most new roof systems are designed to provide useful service for about 20 years. Some roof system types, such as slate, clay tile and certain metal (e.g., copper) systems, can last longer. Actual roof system life span is determined by a number of factors, including local climatic and environmental conditions, proper building and roof system design, material quality and suitability, proper application and adequate roof maintenance.
For each roofing material, there are different grades and corresponding prices. There also are a variety of styles and shapes. You need to look at the full product range and make a choice based on your budget and needs. Within the roofing profession, there are different levels of expertise and craftsmanship. Insist on a contractor who is committed to quality work.
How can I determine my annual roofing cost? When considering your roofing options, the following formula may help:
Total Cost (Materials and Labor) ÷ Life Expectancy of Roof System (in years) = Annual Roofing Cost
Source: National Roofing Contractors Association
