Important Factors for Choosing a Roofing Company

Editor's note: This post was originally published on August 8, 2012 and has been updated for accuracy and relevance.

How do you find a  good roofing company? What should you look for, and what makes them special? Check out our 10 “insider” tips on finding a contractor you’ll feel good about, and get the service you deserve from someone who says they’re the best.

Find Out How Long the Roofing Company has Been in Business

After a roofing company has been in business for a few years they should have established business practices and have a good understanding of roofing systems.

Be Sure Your Roofing Company Has a Permanent Place of Business

Make sure the company has a business phone, address, tax ID number, a business license and are bonded.

Your Roofing Contractor Should Have Liability Insurance

Make sure you see copies of their liability insurance. A professional roofer should always carry copies of their insurance and workers compensation papers.

Make Sure You Understand your Written Roofing Estimate

Document when the project will start and when it is estimated to be completed, also when payments will be made. (Do not pay in full up front). Make sure the warranty is clear and you understand what voids it.

Check with the Better Business Bureau About a Roofing Company's Reputation

Call the Better Business Bureau and check for any complaints against the roofing company . Also, ask the roofing contractor for references and call those customers to determine if they were satisfied.

Consider More than the Price of Your Roofing Project

Do not let price be the main indicator of which company to pick . Sometimes the company offers discounts and rebates which will lower the price. Spend a little time making calls and looking over the written estimate and contracts and get all your questions answered so you can feel confident in your final decision.

Get Quotes from Multiple Roofing Companies

 Not all roofing contractors are the same. Get multiple quotes from different roof contractors and compare the details of the bid. Since some states do not require contractors to be licensed it is always best to obtain your bids from licensed contractors only.

Don't Pay in Full Until Your Roof is Completed

You will likely be required to pay a small deposit. This amount should typically not exceed 25% of the full price of the job, or the base cost for materials only. Never pay for labor in advance. Always inspect the work once it is complete and get a copy of all the necessary paperwork before paying the contractor.

Make Sure Your Fully Understand Your New Roof's Warranty

Understand your roofing warranties . Roof repair and replacement can be costly so it is always a good idea to find a contractor that can offer a warranty for the work. Contractors typically offer full warranties for new roof and roof replacements, but may not offer any warranty for repairs. You should always get a copy of the warranty information once the work has been completed.

Be Aware of Any Preventative Roof Maintenance That You Can Perform

Make sure to always keep an eye on your roof for potential problems. Look for damaged or missing shingles, and replace any that are not satisfactory. The flashing and underlining should always be intact and in good shape. Just a few minutes each month can reduce the chances of needing major repair or replacement and save you thousands of dollars down the road.

We know that choosing a roofing company that is right for you can be an overwhelming task. That is why we have drafted a guide on the 10 Tips For Choosing A Roofing Company in Baton Rouge. It is a reference of sorts for you to refer to when selecting a roofing company for your next project. It is a free download. Just click on the button below and we will email it directly to you. Thanks again for your consideration of Cribbs, Inc Roofing and Sheet Metal.