How to Choose the Right Roofing Contractor: Key Questions to Ask

When it comes to repairing or replacing your roof, choosing the right roofing contractor is crucial. The quality of your roof installation impacts not only your home’s safety but also its energy efficiency, durability, and overall value. In Lexington, Kentucky, where weather can be unpredictable, finding a trusted roofing contractor is even more important.

At Red Castle Roofing, we know how overwhelming it can be to make this decision. To help, we’ve compiled a list of key questions you should ask when choosing a roofing contractor to ensure you’re hiring a qualified, reliable professional.

Are You Licensed and Insured?

One of the first questions you should ask any roofing contractor is whether they are properly licensed and insured. A legitimate roofing company will hold the appropriate licenses required to work in Kentucky and will carry both liability insurance and worker’s compensation.

• Why it matters: Licensing ensures that the contractor follows local building codes and industry standards. Insurance protects you from being held liable in case of accidents or property damage during the project.

Tip: Ask for proof of both licensing and insurance before any work begins.

Do You Have Experience with My Type of Roof?

Roofing systems vary, and not all contractors have experience with every type of roof. Whether you have asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or slate, it’s important to choose a contractor who has extensive experience with the specific materials your roof requires.

• Why it matters: Specialized experience ensures that the contractor understands the best practices for installing and repairing your roof type, which leads to a longer-lasting, more reliable roof.

Tip: Request to see photos of previous projects or ask for references from homeowners with similar roofs.

Can You Provide Local References?

A reputable roofing contractor should have a list of local references that you can contact. Speaking with previous clients in the Lexington area will give you insight into the contractor’s workmanship, professionalism, and overall customer service.

• Why it matters: Local references allow you to gauge the contractor’s reputation in your community. You’ll also get a sense of how well they handle issues that may arise after the project is completed.

Tip: Check online reviews in addition to speaking with references to get a well-rounded view of the contractor’s performance.

Do You Offer a Warranty on Your Work?

Any reliable roofing contractor will stand behind their work with a comprehensive warranty. This should include a manufacturer’s warranty for the materials used and a workmanship warranty covering any potential installation errors.

• Why it matters: A warranty provides peace of mind that the contractor will fix any issues that arise due to faulty materials or improper installation, without additional costs to you.

Tip: Clarify the details of both warranties, including how long they last and what they cover, before signing a contract.

What is Your Safety Record?

Roofing can be a dangerous job, and safety should be a top priority for any roofing contractor. Ask about their safety protocols, training programs, and track record to ensure that they prioritize safety on every job site.

• Why it matters: A strong safety record indicates that the contractor values their employees and clients’ property, reducing the risk of accidents during your project.

Tip: Contractors who invest in safety tend to complete projects more efficiently and with fewer issues.

How Will You Protect My Home During the Project?

Roofing projects can be messy and disruptive. It’s important to ask how the contractor plans to protect your home, landscaping, and outdoor areas during the installation or repair process.

• Why it matters: Protecting your home ensures that no additional damage occurs during the roofing process and that your property is left clean and tidy when the job is done.

Tip: Ask about cleanup procedures and whether they use protective coverings or tools like dumpsters to manage debris.

What is the Estimated Timeline for My Project?

Understanding the expected timeline for your roofing project is essential to planning and managing expectations. Ask the contractor for an estimated start date, how long the project will take, and whether there are any potential delays to be aware of.

• Why it matters: A clear timeline helps you plan around the project and ensures that the contractor is committed to completing the work efficiently.

Tip: Be sure to discuss what happens if weather or other unforeseen circumstances delay the project and how they handle such situations.

Will You Provide a Written Estimate?

A professional roofing contractor should always provide a detailed, written estimate outlining the scope of the work, materials, labor, and any other associated costs. Be wary of contractors who only give verbal quotes or don’t provide specific cost breakdowns.

• Why it matters: A written estimate protects you from hidden fees or unexpected costs. It also ensures that both you and the contractor have a clear understanding of what is included in the project.

Tip: Compare estimates from multiple contractors to ensure you’re getting a fair price, but remember that the lowest bid isn’t always the best option.

What Happens if There Are Unexpected Issues?

Roofing projects don’t always go according to plan. Once the contractor removes your old roof, they may uncover problems such as water damage or structural issues. It’s important to ask how they handle unexpected issues and how these will affect your timeline and costs.

• Why it matters: Understanding how the contractor will handle surprises ensures that you’re not caught off guard by additional work or costs.

Tip: Make sure there is a clause in your contract that outlines the process for handling unforeseen problems.

Choose Red Castle Roofing for Peace of Mind

Asking the right questions is essential to finding a trustworthy and reliable roofing contractor. At Red Castle Roofing, we pride ourselves on transparency, quality craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction. We’re happy to answer any of these questions and more as we work with you to provide a durable, long-lasting roof for your Lexington home.

If you’re ready to get started on your next roofing project, contact Red Castle Roofing today for a free consultation and let us show you why we’re the roofing contractor you can trust.