Finding a roofing contractor around the Oakville, Burlington area can be a tough job. If you have a flat roof, you will know that it requires special materials that are more costly than standard roofing shingles used on a residential building. Now, add to the equation that you not only need specific materials, you need a contractor experienced enough to not only install the materials correctly, but also to stand behind their work and guarantee it. A typical flat roof should last 20-30 years or more if properly installed. How are you ever going to find someone who can solve all these problems and still allow you to maintain your budget?
By using these tips and suggestions, you can narrow down your choice of roofing contractor to find one perfect for the job, and who will stand behind their work.
Certified Dealers
You are about to invest a lot of money into your roof, so you will want someone who has trained personnel to install it. You also want a company that offers a warranty on your roof. Some roofing contractors will do the work cheap, but if they are not around in a couple of years, what are you going to do if your roof leaks? You may just find yourself in the same position you were in when the roof was replaced. Avoid costly repairs by asking the contractor about their warranty and just how to call upon it if something goes wrong down the road.
Roofing Materials
Flat roofing materials vary depending upon the region and type of roof you have. Certain products perform better in the climate we have here in Southern Ontario. When you speak with your roofing contractor, make sure you ask questions about the type of materials they are using and what the average life span is for the type of roof that you have. You also want to be assured that the materials meet or exceed minimum code requirements for your region.
The more knowledgeable the roofing contractor is about the materials, the better chance you have of finding the right company for the job at hand. If your contractor tells you they can complete the job quickly and save you a lot more money than other quotes you have, you have to question whether they are using certified materials and experienced employees. In a situation like this, it is better to side with caution and turn away from the contractor than to have your roof fail in a couple of years.
Always get your warranty in writing and signed by the contractor. Failure to get a warranty just means you have no recourse when something goes wrong with your roof.
Experience
Many contractors are bonded, insured, and licensed but that does not mean they are any good! If your contractor cannot provide you with a history of jobs they have performed and a list of contacts you can call for reference, then find someone else to handle your job. A good contractor will not shy away from offering you references. They should also be able to tell you about their crew, their experience, and training they have. Do not be afraid to call the references when you get them. This is a good way to find out if the previous customer is still happy with the work performed by the contractor.
To summarize, the lowest price is not necessarily the best price. Get a few estimates and compare each of them. The best contractors will give you the answers to your questions in an open and honest manner. After all, they have their reputation to uphold.
Contact Essential Flat Roofing today for all your flat roofing needs.