Commercial Roofing: Everything You Need to Know

Roofs aren’t something we usually think about until they fail, creating a sizable pond in a lobby or office. The best quality in any piece of carpentry is its reliability; forgetting about the structure protecting you is a sure sign that it’s doing the job well. Because of this, you should ensure that your roof is solid from the outset. Know what to ask your roofing contractor so you won’t have to swim for your morning coffee.

Is your company licensed?

This should be among the first questions you ask, as hiring an unlicensed contractor will almost certainly end in trouble. Most states—Tennessee included—require a roofing contractor to hold a license when a job will cost more than a specified amount. You’ll want to ask any contractor you’re considering to provide proof of this license, and any contractor worth their salt should oblige.

Where is your company based?

Hiring a remotely-based contractor can cause hassles you won’t want when an investment like a roofing system is at stake. Important projects require a contractor who’ll be around for the long-haul if something ever comes up down the road. If the contractor isn’t local after the original work is finished, who’s to say they’ll ever return to stand by that work?

What kind of roofing systems does your company provide?

In commercial roofing, three principal systems are available: single ply, built-up roof (BUR), and modified bitumen (MB). Each option has strengths and weaknesses that a contractor should guide you in weighing carefully for your particular needs.

Will your company keep me up to date on the progress of the project?

Paying for a contractor to complete a project, then not being kept in the know on that project’s status isn’t only an irritation, but can also potentially be a signal of dishonesty on the contractor’s part. If you don’t know what your contractor is doing as they do it, how can you ensure you’re getting exactly what you pay for? Make sure to work with a contractor who will guarantee a constant line of communication, answering any questions you might have about your roofing system.

Does your company provide a free, written estimate?

There’s no reason to pay to have a roofing contractor give you an estimate when reliable contractors can give you a written and detailed one for free. A written estimate gives you the power to point to any price or service discrepancies throughout the course of the project, as well as financially plan for other construction projects you might have on your plate. Make sure the estimate itemizes the cost of removing any old roofing, the installation of a new roofing system, and anything else specific to your project.By asking the above questions, you’ll be able to quickly parse the good contractors from the not-so-good. Above all, hire a roofing contractor you can trust to do the job right: Pinnacle Roofing. Call (901) 438-5084 today for a free estimate.