Services Offered by Roofing Companies
Licensed roofing contractors offer many installation, replacement, and repair services related to your home’s roof system. Some common services are described below.
Roof Installation and Replacement
Whether you’re adding a roof to new construction or replacing an existing roof, professional roofers can handle all project stages. Since asphalt shingle roofs are so popular, all roofers have experience installing them. However, some contractors have more experience than others with installing specialty roofing materials such as tile or slate.
Roof Repair
Roofing contractors can repair and restore all roof parts, from the soffits and fascia to the decking and vents. Professional roofers are experts at identifying the source of troublesome leaks, which typically occur around chimneys, skylights, and vents. A professional will know if only surface materials need replacing or if the fix requires accessing the decking and joists.
Roof Inspection
The first step in repair and replacement is often a professional inspection. A roof inspector can decide whether you can repair your roof or need to replace it. Trained roof inspectors often catch small problems before they become large ones. They also know how to inspect a damaged roof without endangering themselves or the roof structure.
Roof Maintenance
An annual inspection is a key part of roof maintenance, and many roofers offer additional maintenance services such as cleaning and sealing. Removing debris, algae, and moss can help lengthen your roof’s life span, and checking caulking and flashing for damage can catch leaks early. Roofers also ensure the roof system has sufficient ventilation to prevent heat or humidity from building up inside and causing problems.
Gutter and Downspout Installation and Repair
Roofers may offer gutter cleaning and repair as part of a larger roof cleaning package. A functional gutter system prevents water damage to your roof and foundation. Many roofers can identify problem areas, repair damage, and correct for overflow.
Factors To Consider When Choosing a Roofing Company
Here are some things to keep in mind while you’re choosing between roofing companies:
- Cost: Budget is always a factor, so try to get at least three quotes to compare prices. Be wary of any company that charges significantly less than others in your area.
- Experience and expertise: Look for a company that’s been in business for a substantial amount of time. Additionally, if you’re choosing a less common roofing material, make sure the contractor has specific experience installing and maintaining it.
- Licensing: All states require contractors to earn and maintain a roofing license to bill themselves as professional roofers. Check your state requirements and ask for proof of up-to-date licensure and insurance.
- Reputation and reviews: Ask family and friends for recommendations, but also check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. This organization offers ratings based on the company’s responsiveness to complaints and transparency in business practices. You can also look at customer review sites such as Trustpilot and Google Reviews.
- Warranties: New roofing materials typically come with manufacturers’ warranties, but many roofing contractors also offer workmanship warranties. Always get any warranties or guarantees in writing, and make sure you understand what they do and don’t apply to.
How Much Does Roofing Cost?
The cost of a new roof largely depends on the square footage and chosen materials. Basic, three-tab asphalt shingles will be the least expensive up-front, but they also have the shortest life span. Copper, zinc, and slate will last the longest but have high price tags. Here are some average price ranges per square foot for various roof types:
- Basic asphalt shingles ($4.25–$4.95): Three-tab asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in America and are the least expensive option for pitched roofs. These shingles are versatile and easy to install, but they only tend to last 15–20 years.*
- Clay tiles ($12.00–$24.75): Ceramic makes for a durable and attractive roofing material that lasts about 50 years. The downsides are the tiles’ weight and larger up-front expense.
- Flat roofing materials ($5.50–$7.50): Rubber, PVC, and EPDM membranes are inexpensive, but they’re only useful on flat or low-slope roofs. They require specialty installation and can last 20–50 years depending on the material.
- Metal tiles/shingles ($8–$39.70): Both price and durability depend heavily on the metal used. Steel and aluminum are on the inexpensive side and typically last 40–50 years. Copper and zinc come with much higher up-front costs but can last 100 years or more.
- Premium/architectural asphalt shingles ($4.50–$8.25): These are upgraded versions of basic asphalt shingles. Premium shingles last up to 30 years but still offer the same versatility and ease of installation.
- Slate tiles ($12–$22): Natural slate tiles can last up to 200 years if installed correctly and maintained properly. However, they’re very expensive to install and are so heavy that they typically require roof reinforcement.
- Standing seam metal panels ($10–$17.05): These metal panels lock together by means of raised, crimped seams that protect fasteners from wind and weather. This makes them extremely resistant to leaks and rust, and they can last up to 50 years.
- Wood shakes/shingles ($8–$14.30): Cedar and other types of wood can be carved into smooth-cut shingles or rough-cut shakes. They have a beautiful traditional look but are susceptible to water and fire damage and last about 30 years.
The cost of roof repair also depends on the roof’s surface materials. However, the problem’s location and severity are often a bigger consideration. The average roof repair costs around $1,097. Below are some price ranges for repairing common roof problems.
Repair Type | Cost Range | Examples |
---|---|---|
Minor repairs | $150–$1,000 | Small leaks, minimal shingle replacement, punctures |
Moderate repairs | $1,001–$2,000 | Limited water damage, flashing replacement, decking repair |
Major repairs | $2,001–$8,000 | Partial roof replacement, sagging repair, extensive shingle replacement |
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FAQ's About Roofers Near Me
When should I replace my roof?
You need to replace basic asphalt shingles every 15–20 years. Premium architectural shingles and wood shakes and shingles can last up to 30 years. Other materials such as clay, metal, and slate need replacing less frequently.
What questions should I ask a roofing contractor?
Here are some questions to ask a potential roofing contractor: - Are you currently licensed as a roofer in this state? - Are you bonded and insured? - Do you offer written estimates? Are they binding? - Do you use subcontractors or do the work yourself? - How long have you been in business? - What guarantees and warranties do you offer on your work?
How much do roofers charge?
Roofing contractors tend to charge between $45 and $75 per hour, and you’ll also have to pay the cost of materials.
What roofing material lasts the longest?
Natural slate tiles last the longest of any roofing material—up to 200 years—but they’re also heavy and come with high up-front costs.
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