It’s time for the big question(s)

By Lori Jerome, PABCO Roofing Products.

Five questions a homeowner might ask you to help them make an informed decision for their roof.

Starting a roofing project might be an everyday occurrence for you and your team, but it’s often a once or twice in a lifetime situation for homeowners. This often leaves them feeling overwhelmed, they don’t know what work their roof needs or what products are the best option. But you can help them feel informed and empowered by advocating for them and answering any and all questions they might have. Here at PABCO Roofing Products, we picked out five common questions homeowners ask contractors to gauge their transparency, expertise and trustworthiness to share so you can make sure you have a clear answer ready!

1 – What kind of licenses and insurance do you have?

Hiring a licensed, bonded and insured roofing contractor ensures that a project is professionally completed, reduces risk and provides legal and financial safeguards. All three qualifications are important, as they dignify different protections:

• Licensed: Licensing demonstrates that the contractor meets local or state requirements, including training and expertise in roofing standards and practices. Licensed contractors are familiar with building codes and regulations, adding a layer of accountability to your project.  

• Bonded: A surety bond protects homeowners financially if the contractor doesn’t fulfill contractual obligations or fails to complete the project. This designation demonstrates the contractor’s commitment to professionalism and reliability.

• Insured: Contractor insurance protects you from liability if accidents occur on your property. It also covers potential damage to your home during the project, giving you peace of mind.

Being able to answer any and all questions about these qualifications is a key step in helping a homeowner feel comfortable and secure in their choice to hire you.

2 – What kind of experience do you have?

Homeowners want a contractor with an established presence and reputation as longevity often correlates with reliability, consistent work quality and satisfied customers. Further, experienced contractors are often more familiar with local climate conditions, building codes and potential roofing challenges specific to the homeowner’s area.  

If you do not have as much experience, you want to display a strong sense of process and reputation. One of the reasons homeowners look for these more experienced options is that time has allowed them to develop streamlined processes, supplier relationships and skilled crews, which can contribute to the success of their projects. They also have built up reputations and are motivated to maintain them, which translates to better service and communication for the homeowner.  

A great way to share about your work and history in their area is to showcase examples of completed projects or challenges you’ve faced and overcome. This can provide insights into your expertise and adaptability.

3 – What does my roof need, a repair or replacement?

Homeowners are not experts in roofing, that’s your job! Answering this question honestly and clearly helps homeowners understand their roof’s condition, avoid unnecessary costs and establish trust with you as their potential roofing contractor.

Make sure to give them all the information and details from your inspection, including how the following factors affect the solution you are recommending:

• The age and condition of your roof

• Signs of damage like granule loss, sagging or exposed underlayment

• Long-term cost-effectiveness of repairs versus replacement

To help illustrate your recommendation, make sure to show homeowners evidence, such as photos or videos, that support your recommendation. This transparency demonstrates their professionalism and helps them make an informed decision.  

4 – What am I getting into with a reroof?  

Understanding the reroof process can reduce stress and set realistic expectations. Here’s a quick guide of what you can explain to a homeowner:

• Inspection and preparation: The contractor will inspect the homeowner’s roof for damage and prepare the site by protecting landscaping and removing old materials.

• Repairs to the decking: Any rotting or damaged areas of the roof deck will be repaired to ensure a solid foundation for the new roofing materials.

• Installation of underlayment and materials: Waterproof underlayment is installed, followed by shingles.

• Cleanup and final inspection: The contractor will remove debris, ensure all nails and materials are cleared and perform a final quality check before presenting the completed work to you.

For a standard single-family home, the process typically takes one to three days, depending on the roof size, complexity and weather conditions. Specialty materials or extensive repairs may extend the timeline. A credible contractor will provide a detailed schedule and keep you informed at every step.

5 – Do you have references?

Local experience is invaluable when helping a homeowner feel confident in working with you. Contractors who are familiar with an area’s climate, roofing styles and homeowner preferences are often better equipped to handle local projects.

Bringing examples of projects in the homeowner’s neighborhood can provide a clearer picture of you and your team’s work quality and reliability. Connecting the homeowner with neighbors who’ve worked with you can also provide firsthand insights into their communication, timeliness and professionalism.  

Tip: Homeowners will be looking both online and in person for reviews and insight into your work. Consider providing a list of references from nearby projects! Additionally, make sure to stay up to date on your online reviews on platforms such as Facebook and NextDoor to see how past clients have felt about your work and any improvements you can make.

The bottom line

Hiring a roofing contractor is a significant decision for a homeowner. Their choice in this moment will impact the performance and value of their home’s roof for decades. By answering these five questions and more, you’ll help them gain valuable insights into your team’s qualifications, experience and approach to their project. Taking the time to make them comfortable and confident will make the entire process smoother for everyone.

Original article source: PABCO Roofing Products