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

Evaluating Roofing Contractors

Evaluating roofing contractors is a crucial step in ensuring that your roofing project is completed successfully. Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating roofing contractors:

1. Experience and Reputation: Look for roofing contractors with a proven track record of completing successful roofing projects. Check online reviews, ask for references, and verify their reputation with local building authorities. A contractor with a solid reputation is more likely to deliver quality work and reliable service.
   
2. Licenses and Certifications: Ensure that the roofing contractor is properly licensed and certified to operate in your state or province. Check for certifications from reputable organizations, such as the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). These credentials indicate that the contractor has met industry standards and is committed to professional excellence.
   
3. Insurance and Liability: Verify that the contractor has adequate insurance coverage, including liability and workers’ compensation insurance. This will protect you and your property in case of accidents or damages during the roofing job. A well-insured contractor demonstrates a commitment to safety and professionalism.
   
4. Roofing Materials and Quality: Check the quality of roofing materials used by the contractor. Ensure that they use materials from reputable manufacturers and follow proper installation procedures. High-quality materials and proper installation are essential for a durable and long-lasting roof. Do they source from local suppliers? That may be important to you as well.
   
5. Warranty and Guarantee: Look for contractors who offer a comprehensive warranty and guarantee for their work. This will give you peace of mind and protect your investment. A strong warranty indicates that the contractor stands behind their workmanship and the quality of the roofing materials used.

What Is It Like Working With the Roofing 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. When evaluating a roofing business, it's crucial to consider their experience and reliability. 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.



Additionally, selecting a roofing contractor who is certified by a shingle manufacturer can lead to better material warranties and enhanced warranty options from the shingle manufacturer, assuring you of quality and reliability in your roofing investment.

Project Planning and Execution

A well-planned and executed roofing project is essential to ensure a successful outcome. Here are some key factors to consider:

1. Project Timeline: Establish a clear project timeline with the contractor, including start and completion dates, and milestones. A detailed timeline helps manage expectations and ensures that the project stays on track.
2. Roofing Materials and Supplies: Ensure that the contractor has a clear plan for sourcing and delivering roofing materials and supplies. Timely delivery of materials is crucial to avoid delays and ensure a smooth workflow.
3. Labor and Equipment: Verify that the contractor has adequate labor and equipment to complete the project efficiently and safely. A well-equipped team is essential for handling the complexities of roof installation and ensuring proper installation.
4. Quality Control: Establish a quality control process to ensure that the work meets your expectations and local building codes. Regular inspections and adherence to standards are vital for a successful roofing project.
5. Communication: Ensure that the contractor has a clear communication plan in place to keep you informed throughout the project. Open and transparent communication helps address any concerns promptly and keeps you updated on the progress.

How Will You Protect My Property During the Roof Installation?

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.

Additionally, we ensure the proper installation of a drip edge to prevent water intrusion beneath roofing materials, which is crucial for meeting building codes and avoiding future leaks or structural damage.

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. Installing an ice and water shield is essential for protecting roof decking from water infiltration beneath roofing materials. It may seem counterintuitive, but using high-quality materials will save you money in the long run. Proper installation techniques and materials in roof valleys are crucial to prevent leaks due to water accumulation during rain. 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. Protecting the roof deck from water infiltration is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the roof. 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?

One 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. Proper installation techniques, especially for roof decking, are crucial to prevent water infiltration and structural damage. 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.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

When evaluating roofing contractors, there are several red flags to watch out for. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Unlicensed or Uninsured Contractors: Be wary of contractors who are unlicensed or uninsured, as this can put you and your property at risk. Always verify the contractor’s credentials and insurance coverage before hiring.
• Low Ball Estimates: Be cautious of contractors who provide low-ball estimates, as this may indicate a lack of experience or a desire to cut corners. Unrealistically low quotes often lead to subpar work and unexpected costs down the line.
• Poor Communication: Be wary of contractors who have poor communication skills or are unresponsive to your inquiries. Effective communication is essential for a smooth and successful roofing project.
• Lack of References: Be cautious of contractors who cannot provide references or have a poor reputation online. Reliable contractors should have a list of satisfied clients who can vouch for their work.
• Unrealistic Timelines: Be wary of contractors who promise unrealistic timelines or completion dates, as this may indicate a lack of experience or resources. A rushed job can compromise the quality of the roof installation and lead to future issues.



By keeping these red flags in mind, you can make a more informed decision and choose a roofing contractor who will deliver quality work and reliable service.

When Your Home Needs a Roof Replacement

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. Proper installation techniques, such as ensuring a minimum number of nails per shingle, are crucial to prevent issues like blow-offs and leaks, even if it’s just a few shingles. 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 Amish roofing experts, click here to schedule a free roof assessment or give us a call at (717) 825-7751.