What to do When Your Roof is Leaking and How to Find an Expert – The opinions expressed by the author in this and all guest blogs are not necessarily those of Gainesville Restoration and Remodeling.
What to do When Your Roof is Leaking and How to Find an Expert
Replacing the roof was the first change we made when we purchased our circa 1830s farmhouse. Our roof was an accident waiting to happen. The shingles were chipped and discolored, and what’s worse – layers had been placed one over the other instead of removed and replaced.
The professional roofer we hired was fantastic. He walked our sloping roof with the confidence of a mountain goat and had strong and very helpful opinions about the best choice for shingles. He worked fast, came on time, and stuck to his estimate. That was 25 years ago. The roof still looks great and has never given us the least bit of worry.
Unfortunately, the same can’t be said about the 1830s barn that came with the house, which we re-roofed 10 years later. A general carpenter, rather than a roofing specialist, did that. He was a really good carpenter, just not that into roofs. Perhaps it’s only a coincidence that last spring, the barn roof began to leak a bit into the upstairs storage area. After we threw scads of plastic sheeting underneath the leak, we called Ron.
When big trouble looms, talk to a trusted professional
If you don’t have a Ron in your life, find one. Ron has years of experience in renovation and repair. He’s smart and always seeks the most practical solution. In the case of the barn roof, this means a quick and cheap fix: A small strip of metal flashing around the old cupola had cracked and needed to be replaced.
Talented do-it-yourselfers probably could have found and repaired this roof leak themselves. Doing small roofing jobs, like this one, can save you money. Knowing how to analyze and even execute the big ones can make you a more savvy and competent homeowner. But working on roofs can be tricky and dangerous. Most often, the work is best done by a pro.
Ask around and make a list
Friends, neighbors, and relatives can be good sources of recommendations for roofers. Your Homeowner’s Association, if you are part of one, can be another source. As new homeowners, we asked for names from our real estate agent, lawyer, and appraiser. Years later, the facilities manager at one of my jobs became an invaluable source of information.
Listen to why people think a certain professional will do a good job. Character references are great, but keep in mind that acquaintanceship is not the same as actually having done business with someone.
There are two kinds of contractors: independent contractors and larger companies. Hiring an individual allows a more personal touch, but larger companies are more likely to have their work covered by warranties and to complete big jobs quickly. They also may offer a more extensive array of services and work with a wider range of materials.
Look for the BBB
Now that you’ve got your list, do your research. Accreditation by the Better Business Bureau means that the company has been in business for at least six months. It has all the necessary bonding and local licenses. It has no unresolved consumer complaints or governmental ethics violations. It fulfills all contracts and promises, its website follows privacy practices, and uses secure financial transactions, if applicable.
The Bureau also rates businesses, with A+ representing the highest level of confidence.
Schedule consultations
Have two or three local roofing contractors inspect your property. You want each of them to give you a written estimate of the work to be done, including the removal of any debris. Keep in mind the lowest bid is not necessarily the best one. Experience matters and a higher price may be well worth the outcome. Project start time may also be a decisive factor, depending on the severity of your problem.
It’s helpful at this time to learn what other services the contractor may offer. If you haven’t checked references, get names now. A good contractor will be more than happy to give references. As you close in on your decision, don’t forget to ask how a company bills, the kinds of payments they accept, and how much you must pay upfront, if anything.
Beware the door-to-door bid
If your neighborhood has recently been hit by wind or other violent storms, you may encounter door-to-door contractors offering to repair your roof on the spot. Find out if it’s a local professional, and if so, check out their license, insurance, and references before considering their bid. If it’s not a local professional, just say goodbye.
A leaky roof is a big deal, and when this happens, you must act quickly. Professional roofing companies understand the seriousness of the matter and will get your home protected and repaired before the situation gets worse. But remember: the fastest and cheapest option may not be the best, and cutting corners on roof repair will only cost you more in the long run.
A long-time journalist, Frances Black lives in a farmhouse built by the first European settler on her land. His brother built the house across the street.
What to do When Your Roof is Leaking and How to Find an Expert
