Hiring The Right Roofing Contractor – The Roofing Quote Process

Well summertime has finally arrived! With long stretches of clear blue skies and sunny days there is no better time to have your roof replaced. In this article I would like to discuss the process of getting a quote from the right roofing company. What to look for and what you should expect from your potential roofing contractor.

#1 Research 
Do a little research before you pick up the phone and start calling the first company that comes up on Google. Google reviews are a great way to learn about past experiences from previous clients who have hired the company.

So what should you look for?

A little research goes a long way. Reviews are one of many helpful tools to assist you with your decision.

#2 Making the Call
When you call a roofing company to get a quote on your reroofing project be prepared to answer a few questions.

The most common questions you will be asked are:

  • How old is your roof?
  • Is your roof leaking?
  • What kind of roof do you currently have?
  • If it’s flat then it’s most likely tar and gravel or torch on?
  • If it’s sloped or pitched it is most commonly an asphalt shingle roof, cedar, or concrete tile?

These questions will help the roofing contractor better understand your needs. After gathering your contact information, an onsite visit will be scheduled.

#3 Meeting Day
The day before the company’s representative comes to your home you should compose a list of any questions or concerns you may have. When the representative arrives at your home he/she should sit down with you and go over your wants, needs, questions or concerns.  For example, if you would like to add a new skylight in a dark hallway or replacing rotten fascia board. The rep will then conduct a roof assessment in order to prepare a written roof estimate. Important components of your roof such as ventilation, flashings, decking, and roof vents all need to be working in unison in order for your roof to meet its life expectancy.

#4 Product Choices
The roofing contractor should give you options and show you samples of different products available. When it comes to flat roofing you’re limited to a few options. Most common product used today on residential reroofing in Vancouver is called torch-on. Torch-on is a modified bitumen roofing system (SBS) which comes in a roll and is applied using a controlled flame. Torch-on comes in the basic colours including black, grey and brown. The other options would be TPO or EPDM rubber. These options are a single ply system. Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) and EPDM are more commonly used on commercial buildings.

When it comes to sloped/pitched roofing material options the world is your oyster. Asphalt shingles some in a large variety of designs, sizes, colours and durability. There is a variety of cedar shingles and shakes from perfections to hand split.

There is the option of the lifetime durability of metal roofing. Concert/ clay tiles is another option. And with the growing number of rubber composite shingles coming into the market which mostly come with 50 year warranties I really do mean the world is your oyster when it comes to sloped roofing options.

Once you have decided on a product to be installed on your roof (you have all the time in the world to do so) the roofing contractor can put together a quotation for you.

#5 Roof Estimate
Once the roof has been thoroughly assessed and the product has been selected, the estimator can prepare your written estimate for you. The estimate will include the price, terms of condition, expected duration of the project, safety measures, a clear scope of work, warranty coverage and payment terms.

#6 Making the Final Decision
Most people don’t know how much roofing in Vancouver costs so they tend to go with the cheapest quote which is not always the best decision.  It is important compare apples to apples.  When making your final decision make sure to review the estimate to ensure the scope of work and materials supplied are included in the written estimate. Prior to signing, make sure to complete the due diligence, to ensure the roofing company has Worksafe BC coverage and liability insurance.

Do a little homework and be prepared to pay for the job to be done right the first time. Roofing is not cheap but protects your home or building.