5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofer in Lancaster, PA

Hiring the right contractor to repair or replace your roof is important. Below, we’ve outlined the questions every homeowner should ask before choosing a roofing company. A reputable roofer will be more than happy to answer any questions you have.

What Is It Like Working With the Company Before The Project Starts?

A professional roofer who is patient and knowledgeable can be invaluable in helping you make the right decisions for your roof. A new roof is a major investment, and you should expect to work with an experienced roofing contractor who will take the time to provide advice on which materials will be durable, protect your home, and improve your curb appeal. You should never feel rushed or pressured into a sale. A reputable roofing company will understand that each home and homeowner are different, and they will know how to help you find the right fit. A good roofer will take pride in their work and should also be able to provide detailed explanations about all aspects of the project from start to finish, including the types of materials used and how they are installed. 

At Sunnyside, we like to meet with homeowners in person so we can thoroughly assess the roof, explain the process, make recommendations, and answer any questions.

How Does Your Pricing Compare to Other Roofers in Lancaster, PA?

In general, you will want to avoid working with either the most expensive or the cheapest roofing companies. A contractor who offers extremely low pricing is likely to skimp on materials and cut corners to save time and money. Conversely, the most expensive roofing quotes you get might be overpriced for the work. 

While it is typically best to be skeptical about quotes at either extreme of the price range, the most important factor is whether the contractor can offer a comprehensive, trustworthy explanation of their quote. After assessing your roof, an expert might find ways to save money or opportunities to extend the life of your roof with a higher-upfront investment. As a homeowner, you should be given the information you need to make an informed decision.

How Will You Protect My Property During the Roofing Project?

Regarding quality of work, there's more to consider than just the roof itself. A reputable roofing company will take steps to keep the job site clean and clutter-free during the entire project. 

At Sunnyside roofing, we take the appearance and safety of your property seriously. We use magnetic catches along the perimeter to pick up nails and other metal objects that may have fallen during the project. At the end of the day, we do a sweep with powerful magnets to keep nails and metal objects out of your yard. We have also invested in an Equipter, which allows our crew to clean debris while on the roof. This saves time and helps keep your outdoor space clean and safe. Maintaining a clean job site is a strong sign that the roofers care about providing quality workmanship.

What Materials and Manufacturers Do You Use?

A high-quality roof is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, including damage from hail or wind, and will last much longer. It may seem counterintuitive, but using high-quality materials will save you money in the long run. While these materials may cost more upfront, their durability ensures they won't need to be replaced or repaired as often as lower-quality options. 

Do You Offer a Workmanship Warranty?

A workmanship warranty is another way to be confident that a roofing company stands behind their work. Two types of warranties are common in the roofing industry: manufacturer’s warranties and workmanship warranties. A manufacturer’s warranty covers defects in material or craftsmanship and wear and tear over time. A workmanship warranty covers a contractor's quality of work. Because we are confident in the skills and craftsmanship of our roofers, we offer a 10-year workmanship warranty in addition to any manufacturer warranties.

Are You an Insured and Licensed Roofer in PA?

Another way to confirm that you are hiring someone who can be trusted is to make sure they are insured and registered in the state of Pennsylvania. Insurance not only helps protect you if something goes wrong with the repairs or installation; strong insurance coverage demonstrates that a roofer takes their business seriously enough to protect their employees and you. This means they're more likely to take extra precautions when working on your roof and go above and beyond in their work. In addition, when you work with a registered home improvement contractor, you can be confident that the roofer has completed the required training and understands all local building codes. Without insurance and a valid license, your homeowner’s insurance policy could be void if anything went wrong during the job. It's worth checking that your roofer is insured and licensed before signing any contracts.

When Your Home Needs a New Roof…

Investing in a high-quality roof is one of the best things you can do for your home: it adds curb appeal, protects your home from the elements, and increases its resale value. When it’s time to invest in a roof replacement, we recommend taking time to ask a few key questions and only working with a roofing contractor who will take time to answer your questions thoroughly.

If you would like to have a no-pressure meeting with one of our roofing experts, click here to schedule a free roof assessment or give us a call at (717) 825-7751.