Blog | Roofing Center

March 4, 2022

6 Tips for Hiring a Professional Roofer

If you’ve never had to hire a roofing company, you may not know where to start. But there are many advantages to hiring a professional roofing company rather than doing it yourself. First and foremost, make sure to hire a roofer that is licensed, insured, and has experience in commercial and residential roof repair and replacements. Cost alone should never be the deciding factor in choosing a contractor, as the quality may be sacrificed. You definitely don’t want a roofer cutting corners on an important job. You should choose several companies to speak to before narrowing it down to one. Ask about their process, experience, proof of insurance, and costs. A reputable contractor is communicative, detail-oriented, and thorough. Follow these steps to find and hire a reliable roofing company to do all your roofing services for you. 1. Research Local Roofers You should do thorough research when you are looking to hire a professional roofer. We recommend looking at their project gallery, checking their reviews, and asking previous clients about their service. These are just a few important things to look for when you are hiring a roofing company for your home or business. Professionalism Roofers should provide a certain level of professionalism when they work on your roof. Taking on a roofing job is no easy task and it should be taken seriously. This includes using safety protocols and addressing any questions or concerns from the property owner. By talking to the roofing company’s past clients, you can get a feel for how they operate and get their jobs completed. You want to work with a company that is open, honest, and transparent. Number of Roofing Projects Check their website and project gallery to see how many jobs they have completed, how many years they have been in service, and what types of roofing jobs they have done. For example, in most roofing companies’ “About Us” section, you can find their history and more personal information about the owners. This gives you a better sense of who you are working with and what their roofing experience is like. In their project gallery, you can see the types of homes and businesses they have worked on and you can specifically search for a project that is similar to yours. For instance, if you have a flat roofing system for your business, you can search through a company’s gallery to look for a project where they worked on a flat roof. You could even take this a step further by contacting the business or homeowner and asking about the level of service they received. Positive Reviews You can find reviews on a company’s website, as well as other review sites or business sites like Yelp, Google, Better Business Bureau, Angie’s List, Home Advisor, and more. By searching through a number of sites for reviews, you can look for patterns in the types of comments people are leaving. If you see a certain characteristic repeated over and over, you can safely assume this characteristic is true of the company – good or bad. (i.e. if many of their past customers have written “bad customer service” in their reviews, you should take note of it.) 2. Get Multiple Quotes from Roofing Professionals Start by looking at your local roofing companies. Call the roofing company or companies you want to work with to set up an inspection. Many roofers near Lakeland will offer free inspections and estimates with no obligation. Take advantage of these services so you can feel confident that you are working with the right company. Do your research and/or call around to ask how you can start the process of getting your roofing services done. By researching multiple companies, you can get a better idea of their service and pricing. However, it’s not just about the money. There are a couple of things that you should look for in the quotes. Affordable Roofing Services After doing research, you will understand how pricing works with each company, which can help you in selecting a company that fits your budget. You should look for discrepancies in pricing, and ask each company what the services entail. This gives you a better idea of the scope of the project and what you should expect to pay. NOTE: Be cautious if you see an estimate that is much lower than others. It can be tempting to work with the cheapest company, but it can end up costing you more in the long run. If you work with a company that provides poor workmanship and does not properly repair or install your roof, it means more bills and roofing costs down the road. Scope of Work When you get your quotes, you should look at the service work that each company plans on providing. Compare it to the other quotes to see if the work listed is similar for all of them. If you notice one quote with a much larger or smaller scope of work than the others, this is a red flag. Be wary of a company that tries to provide you with more work than you need. On the other hand, if a company provides you with a quote for less work than the other companies you are researching, you should wonder if they are cutting corners, or hiding the actual amount of work so they can charge you more later. Timeframe for Work Check to see what each company says for how long it will take them to complete your project. There shouldn’t be a big discrepancy in the time it takes each company to complete the work, because the type of work they are doing should be similar. If you happen to notice a company that says they can complete the work much faster, ask them about it. They should be open to having a discussion with you about the services they plan to provide you. 3. Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) Ratings The Better Business Bureau is a dedicated agency that acts as an ethical marketplace for buyers and sellers. There are many rating elements that BBB takes into consideration when they give a business a rating grade. They take things like time in business, type of business, level of transparency in business practices, and complaint volume into consideration when they rate a business. When BBB looks at complaint volume, they also look at how the complaints have been resolved so that you know how issues are handled within a specific business. Using BBB when searching for a roofing company helps you understand not only the history of the business but their history in handling customer complaints. You can find detailed information about specific complaints and the whether the roofing company took care of them satisfactorily, poorly, or whether they were ignored. 4. Look for Roofing Contractors With Credible Designations Certain manufacturers will give designations to roofing companies who pass their requirements. For example, GAF has a top designation known as Master Elite®. Master Elite® Contractors make up only 2% of roofing contractors per market, so you can feel confident that you are working with a credible roofer in your area. There are also trusted business sites, like Home Advisor, that offer badges and designations to businesses that have shown a history of positive reviews, and other factors as well. On Home Advisor, your business can be listed as a business that provides “Elite Service” or that has been “Screened and Approved” by their internal background check. These kinds of designations give customers added peace of mind that they are working with a trusted, credible roofer. 5. Use a Roofing Company that Can Provide Licensing and Insurance Information It’s important that your roofing company has liability and workers’ compensation insurance as well as a business license to operate where you live. You should not be afraid to ask for proof of these things. They should also be bonded. When a roofing company is bonded, it means they have taken this extra step to give you added protection as their customer. It essentially holds the company accountable for completing the work they have agreed to complete. Having workers’ compensation insurance is important too because it means that your roofing company takes full responsibility in case of any injuries or fatalities on the job. Liability insurance also holds them accountable for any mishaps or missteps they make on the job. For instance, if your chimney is not part of the scope of their work but they do damage to your chimney, that is something they are responsible for, not you. 6. Ask about Safety Protocols Do not be afraid to ask the roofing companies you are considering about their safety protocols. Especially during COVID, you want to ensure the safety of your home and family. But regardless of a pandemic, there are certain safety measures that all roofing companies should adhere to. Safety Equipment Your roofing company’s safety equipment should be up to date and properly working. Ladders should be stable and properly secured to something, all roofers should be wearing the correct personal protection equipment (PPE), and cords should be properly secured so no one trips over them. Preparing Your Home This is especially important if you are getting a new roof installed. Your roofing company should help you prepare your home and family for the roofing services. This means boarding up or covering up any areas of your home that will be exposed to the elements during the roofing job. It also means moving furniture that could get damaged when they work on the roof. Be sure to talk to your roofing company in depth so you understand the scope of the work. Work with a Trusted Local Roofing Company Remember: don’t settle for just any roofer! You should do your research on several local roofing companies to find which one works best for you. And we feel confident that Residential Roofing Depot can help you with any roofing job! Whether you need a full roof replacement or a few simple repairs or anything in between, call RoofingCenter.Org to get the best value for your hard-earned money. We will always provide you with the best quality of service from the initial inspection to the final finishing touches. After you get your inspection with us and choose us as your roofing company, we’ll be with you until well after your roof replacement is complete. If you ever have any questions during the process, we’re here to answer them for you. You can feel confident that our roofing technicians will carry out the entire project with the utmost competence, skills, and professionalism. Whether it is about the quality of the roofing material or the quality of the installation, we provide you with the best of the best. Give us a call today to get started – we’re here to help you with all your roofing needs!

Blog 0 9 min read

February 10, 2022

How to Choose the Perfect Modern Roof

Pitched, flat, butterfly, or skillion – whichever roof type you choose for your house, it’s essential to make sure the style works holistically with your final house design. Aside from well, putting a roof over your head, today’s modern roof designs can reduce energy costs, improve drainage, increase natural light, and add a sense of contemporary grandeur to a home. Let’s not forget about the all-important aesthetic appeal of a house and how your roof style fits in with other design aspects such as exterior walls, windows, verandahs, and curb appeal. We’ve collated the top five modern roof types to make your decision nice and simple. 1. PITCHED Also referred to as a gable or gabled roof, pitched roofs are one of the more popular roofing styles in Australia and are often seen on modern farmhouses and Scandi style homes. As the name suggests, a pitched roof is recognized by its distinct center pitch where two symmetrical roof panels meet. Aside from being functional, easy to install, and relatively cost-effective, pitched roofs allow for greater attic space compared to flat roof styles, and can increase airflow and energy efficiency in a home when built with vaulted ceilings. Pitched roofs also allow for greater water drainage. Three Birds Renovations chose a striking pitched roof to add a modern feel to this coastal-farmhouse renovation. 2. SKILLION While also technically a pitched roof, skillion roofs differ from traditional pitched roofs with a triangular profile as they only have a single flat roof surface pitched at an angle. Sometimes referred to as a shed roof or lean-to roof, the skillion design is popular in contemporary house designs for its architectural flair and unique silhouette. Skillion roof profiles are a great option when building a house extension. A skillion roof plus Matrix™ Cladding adds a striking contemporary edge to this Melbourne home. 3. BUTTERFLY Also falling into the pitched roof category, butterfly roofs are characterized by their v-shape roof construction of two roof panels joining in the middle but in the opposite direction of a triangle pitch. The butterfly roof design is popular in modern eco-friendly homes as the v-shape construction allows for water collection systems and solar panels to be easily integrated. 4. FLAT ROOF Flat roofs sit horizontally on top of a home and have very little pitch in their shape. As flat roofs are relatively simple in their design, they are cost-effective, easy to install, and widely available. Unlike pitched roofs, however, flat roofs can be a problem when it comes to water drainage, leaking, and moisture retention if not adequately waterproofed. Space is the most desirable pro of a flat roof in that you don’t have to worry about upstairs bedrooms with extreme pitched ceilings and walls, and the extra space available on the roof can be used for a rooftop terrace or garden. A flat roof is perfect for achieving a mid-century modernist look! 5. SALTBOX ROOF Asymmetrical in its design, a saltbox roof (also known as a catslide roof) has two roof panels joined in the middle, but the posterior panel is longer than the anterior panel. Similar to the lean-to roof style, saltbox roofs were designed to extend the roofline and thus increase the amount of interior space. Saltbox roofs are easy to install when working with an existing house as the extended posterior roof panel is merely an extension and the whole roof doesn’t need to be replaced. Saltbox roofs are also favored for their excellent drainage and resistance to corrosion.

Blog 0 2 min read

February 7, 2022

What is the Most Affordable Type of Roof? (& Why You Shouldn’t Hire a Cheap Contractor)

Needing a new roof is stressful. Especially when trying to figure out how much it’s going to cost you. That’s why a lot of people look for affordability when it comes to their roof replacement. But what is the most affordable type of roof for a replacement? Luckily, we’re here to break it down for you. The team at Bill Ragan Roofing has provided high-quality asphalt roof repairs and replacements to the residents of Nashville since 1990. We strive to give you an experience that’s rare in the roofing industry with honesty, customer service, and a strong workmanship history. That’s why when you work with us, you’ll never have to worry about your roof again. So, what is the most affordable type of roof? Always eager to help you find the right roof for you and your budget, I’m going to answer that question and break down why you shouldn’t hire a cheap roofing contractor even when you’re on a tight budget. What is the most affordable type of roof? I understand everyone has a budget for their roof replacement. If your budget is tight, then you’re probably looking for the most cost-effective option available. If that sounds like you, an asphalt roof is going to be the most affordable option for your replacement. Even though it’s the most affordable roofing choice, there are 3 different types of asphalt shingles that affect how much you’ll spend on an asphalt roof replacement. 3-tab shingles are the cheapest of the 3 types and are a great option if you’re on a tight budget. Dimensional shingles are the most common type you see on roofs today. They’re about 15% more than 3-tab shingles, but give you more life and better warranty options. Luxury shingles are the most expensive option of the 3 types. They’re going to be almost double the cost of dimensional shingles, but they’re one of the most aesthetically pleasing roofs you’ll see. But if you’re looking for affordability, you’re probably going to go with a 3-tab or dimensional shingle for your asphalt roof replacement. The asphalt shingle that you choose is just one thing that impacts the cost of your new roof. To learn the other factors that affect the price of a new asphalt roof, read this article on how much your asphalt roof replacement will cost. 4 risks of hiring a cheap roofing contractor for you asphalt roof replacement Now you know asphalt roofs are the most affordable type of roof for your replacement. I understand everyone is on a budget, but you shouldn’t try to find the lowest priced roofing contractor possible for your asphalt replacement. Even if you get the most affordable roofing materials, you need to hire a high-quality roofing contractor to install them. That’s why you need to know the risks involved when hiring a roofing contractor because they offer you the lowest price in your area. 1. You get the quality you pay for When you invest in a roof system, it’s going to cost more for quality labor, roofing materials, and components. I understand everyone is on a budget, but if you hire the cheapest roofing contractor it’s going to show up in the final quality of your roof. For example, they could cut corners by not installing crucial components like drip edge and underlayment. No matter what crucial installation steps they skip, it will ultimately lead to roof leaks and more stress for you. Hiring a cheap contractor means you’ll get the cheapest components and cheapest labor available, which sets your roof up for premature failure right off the bat. That makes investing in quality from the beginning crucial anytime you need repairs or a full roof replacement. 2. You’ll pay more money in the long run Remember, when you hire the cheapest roofing contractor, it shows in the finished quality of your roof. Getting the cheapest roof possible might seem like your only option, but a roof is an investment. The last thing you want is to pay more out of your pocket after spending thousands of dollars on a new roof. When you hire a cheap roofing contractor, that’s exactly what will happen and you’ll have roof problems sooner rather than later. These problems might not show up right away, but eventually, you’ll end up spending more money in the long run with repairs and eventually a full roof replacement. To learn more about how going with the cheapest options can affect your roof, read this article on 3 ways “cheap” roof systems cost you more in the long run. 3. Your roof won’t live as long as it should Just like hiring a cheap roofing contractor will affect the end quality of your roof and will cost you more money in the long run, it also affects your roof’s lifespan. When you hire a contractor for their low price, I can guarantee your roof’s life will not be what the contractor said it would be. For example, a 3 tab asphalt shingle roof has a lifespan of around 25 years. When you hire the cheapest roofing contractor, you won’t get anywhere near this lifespan. The reason for this is you’re going to get the cheapest materials and the cheapest labor to install your roof. This will lead to improper roof installation and other problems, which always leads to premature roof failure. They could cut corners, use incorrect roofing techniques, or not check your attic for adequate ventilation. Problems might not show up right away from hiring a cheap roofing company, but eventually, your roof will have leaks. 4. You won’t get the best warranties available When you get a new roof, you’ll have two warranties. You’ll have one on the contractor’s workmanship and one from the manufacturer on your roofing materials. If you get a dimensional asphalt shingle roof and use all of the manufacturer’s roofing components, you can register your roof with the manufacturer to receive the enhanced warranty. This warranty guarantees they’ll cover labor, materials, dump fees, non-prorated for 50 years if there is a defect in their materials. However, when you hire a contractor for their cheap prices, I can guarantee you won’t qualify for the enhanced warranty. Even if you do somehow qualify for this warranty, it’s highly likely it’ll be voided because of improper installation or inadequate attic ventilation. This only leaves the cheap roofing contractor’s workmanship warranty to rely on. Because you used the cheapest company around, you’re going to get anywhere from a tail light warranty (as soon as you see their company truck’s tail lights disappear your warranty is gone), to a two-year, or possibly a five-year warranty. It’s highly unlikely a contractor is going to give more than a five-year warranty on their workmanship for something they know is going to have continuous problems down the road. They just want to get through the warranty period before your roof fails completely, and they have to pay to fix it. To learn more about your warranty options, read this article on what roof warranties cover (types and how long they last). Ready to hire a reputable roofing contractor for your asphalt roof replacement? Now you know the 4 risks of trying to hire the cheapest roofing contractor for your asphalt roof replacement. Hiring a cheap contractor means you’ll get a poor quality roof that won’t live as long as it should and you won’t even get the best warranties available if any problems come up. On the other hand, as long as you hire a reputable contractor and invest in quality materials, your new asphalt roof will give you years of peace of mind. Even if you get the cheapest type of asphalt shingle, you should still invest in a quality roofing contractor with a strong workmanship history. Now that you know an asphalt roof is the most affordable roof type and why you shouldn’t hire a roofing contractor based on their low prices, what do you do next? The next step is to learn how to find a great local roofing contractor you can trust and that’s the right fit for you. But how do you do that? Luckily, we’ve got you covered. The team at Bill Ragan Roofing has provided the residents in Nashville and surrounding areas with high-quality asphalt roof replacements since 1990. We take pride in everything we do and are proud to offer you a lifetime warranty on our workmanship. If you’re local to Nashville, don’t hesitate to contact us to take care of all of your asphalt roofing needs.

Blog 0 7 min read

February 3, 2022

10 Wonderful Roof Design Ideas

Most folks don’t exactly go the extra mile when it comes to designing their roof. Sure, it is a means of keeping your humble abode effectively insulated and dry, but that doesn’t mean it can’t integrate a touch of architectural brilliance. Everyone loves a beautifully constructed home, and the best way of achieving this is by considering a nice roofing design.https://16c477132b4b5d63c05be315fc7d2f68.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html In light of this, here are some unequivocally fun roofing ideas that you may want to consider. The Curved Model The curved model pays homage to mostly agricultural structures. This is a purely modernist touch to roof design and texture, and many contemporary homeowners and millennials have entirely done away with adding stilts. Instead, they are more inclined to install an extension below their homes. This is an arched roof known as the ‘ship’s bottom’ and ‘Gothic arch.’ Wondering if this could fit your next construction idea? Rather than going the trial-and-error route, it would be wise to contact an expert and find the best Franklin TN roofing options for you. The Butterfly Design An inversion of the traditional roof primarily characterizes this beautiful roof design. The design consists of two sloped roof surfaces, both from opposite edges. The edges are made to invert or slope down towards the center slightly. The roof design is called the ‘butterfly roof’ because it resembles the wings of a butterfly. Roofing experts believe that this idea was initially introduced for those people who were looking to capture rainwater. The design was ideal for this because the water was collected in the central basin of the roof (the meeting point of two slopes). It has, however, grown to become one of the most popular roofing designs in most parts of the world. It’s a nice choice for those structures with multiple roofs spread out horizontally. Additionally, it makes for a lovely panoramic view of your roof. The Modern Flat Roof While the flat design is nothing new, it is a highly affordable choice for folks on a limited budget. For one, you don’t need a lot of roofing materials because it doesn’t have any complicated sub-designs. You won’t have to spend extra on materials to achieve arching or sloping designs. However, modern homeowners can add their flair of creativity by decorating the space and treating it like a terrace. If you’re not only concerned about the budget but also the time it takes to install, then this is still your best bet. Nonetheless, it’s good to find a company that advertises that type of roofing, like DelamereRoofing.co.uk as an example. Shed Roofs Of The Future https://16c477132b4b5d63c05be315fc7d2f68.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.htmlYou don’t have to spend a lot of money on the best designs. All you have to do is get a roofline installed, and you have yourself a futuristic design. Shed roofs are perfect for homeowners who are more inclined towards having ample ambient and natural light seep into the house. The Gable Roof A gable roof is a trendy design in low-climatic regions. This is one of the most inexpensive roofing designs you can have, and it also delivers an ideal opportunity for more floor space. Moreover, a gable roof can also allow more daylight to fill your house and increase the total usable area. A Decent Hip Roof A hip roof, which is also known as a ‘hipped roof,’ is an exciting shape where both ends of the slopes of the roof merge with the walls of your house. Hip roofs were a go-to roofing design in Italy. However, now they are even more popular in the US. This model offers a sturdy shelter against hurricane winds because the roof does not have a flat surface. The Dome Design It is precisely how it sounds like – a dome. Dome roofs are for homeowners who are looking to infuse a high degree of modernist creativity and design. Aside from the incredibly different aesthetics of dome roofs, they are quite durable. The Hexagon Gazebo Although the hexagon gazebo design is incorporated in outdoor gazebos, you can rest assured your house would be the center of attention for a long time if you opt for this design. The hexagon gazebo is exactly what it sounds like – it has six triangular sides, which immediately boost the aesthetical appeal of your humble abode. The Parapet Roof Design https://16c477132b4b5d63c05be315fc7d2f68.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.htmlIf you haven’t heard of this type of design, that’s all right because it is a very new take on roofing styles and is particularly being installed by homeowners to enhance the overall safety of the house. The parapet roof is flat, but the walls of your home are designed to go beyond the roof. The Lean-To Roof It is also known as the ‘skillion’ or ‘shed’ – it is similar to the roofs on installed sheds, slightly sloped and extended. However, nowadays, homeowners are taking this concept and adding it to their roofs because it is affordable and functional. Because the lean-to roof has a single slope extension, water drainage becomes easy. Essential Factors To Consider When Choosing A Roof Design Here are important considerations you should make in choosing a roof design: Climate: A cement, terracotta, ceramic, or clay tile roof is one of the best options if you live in a city with a hot climate because these roofing materials are the least thermally conductive. They’re also much sturdier than others and can thus withstand typhoons better. If you live in a place with a cold climate, avoid a complicated roof design that could allow ice or snow to accumulate on it and cause major roof damage. Choosing a simple gable roof instead would be a good idea; it’s sturdy and strong, and it can shed snow easily.Energy-Efficiency: You can save money by reducing your energy bill if you choose a roof design that can maximize the energy efficiency inside your home. Metal, tile, and asphalt shingle roofing materials promise to improve the insulation of your home. These materials are naturally reflective and will help reduce your home’s energy consumption. You can hire a professional to help create the best roofing design for your property, such as RoofPRO or any other reputable contractor.

Blog 0 5 min read

January 28, 2022

How to Start Your Own Roofing Business

How to Start Your Own Roofing Business while avoiding the mistakes made by so many So many roofing companies close their doors before they even get going. Yet, starting a roofing business is not hard to do when you can spot and avoid the pitfalls. In summary, here’s how to start your roofing business successfully: Plan Not to Fail. With all the lists of what to do, what to get and where to get it, how come more new roofing businesses fail than succeed? Avoid error #1.Hire an accountant.Know Before You Go. It’s vital to see how much it’s going to cost before you start your roofing business. Only then will you know how much you’ll need to stay afloat and turn a profit.Establish costs and pricing.Protect Yourself. Select sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation or LLC (limited liability company). Consult your accountant and your insurance agent.Register, license and insure your roofing business.Don’t Overspend. A desk in your spare room, basement or garage and a phone in your pocket will get you rolling. Buy tools only as roofing jobs require them.Ignore new equipment when used will do.Recruit Wisely. You want roofers who know at least as much about roofing as you do. You’ll most easily find them in and around roofing supply stores.Hire the best and fire the rest.Sell Well. Your future depends on how well you sell. Honing your sales skills at every opportunity is time well spent. The better you are, the bigger you’ll be.Create a great looking sales kit. Promote Without Advertising. There are lots of things you can do before spending on advertising. Entire businesses have been built on truck and lawn signs.Invest in your signage.Don’t Bite Off More than You Can Chew. Learn from those who’ve been there, done that. Pursue only low-liability jobs you know you can do profitably.Decline high-risk work. Plan Not to Fail With all the available online advice, all the lists of what to do, what to get and where to get it, how come more new roofing businesses fail than succeed? The answer, like all truths, is simple. Because nobody points out the pitfalls. Once you’ve decided to go into the roofing business, the first thing you need to do is avoid the biggest pitfall of all and … Get an Accountant It’s the secret ingredient you need from day one. Meet with a good accountant, perhaps one referred by a trusted friend, and involve that person right from the start. Then — before you spend a cent on equipment — create a plan that clearly states your business goals and how you intend to achieve them. You could also contact a business consultant or check in with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) or the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB); but the first thing they’ll likely tell you is, “Get an accountant.” Establish Your Costs You have to know before you go. It is absolutely essential to determine how much it’s going to cost before you start your roofing business. Direct costs like materials and labor are easy enough to figure out, but soft costs such as administrative and marketing expenses must be considered in order to merely break even. With your accountant, work out the cost of everything: Vehicle.Equipment.Registration.Insurance.Operational expenses, including labor wages and salaries.Small website.Promotional material, including signage and stationery.Administration.Commercial premises if other than your home. Open a business bank account for your roofing company. Job deposit checks can be used to cover material costs as you move forward. Set Your Price The numbers have to make sense. With your total costs known, you can now add mark-up for profit. Comparison to local competition might show that some roofing companies are higher priced and some are lower priced than you need to charge. The point is to sell at the price you need to get to ensure turning a profit and here’s where some extra help can make all the difference. In addition to your accountant, look for a mentor who has been there before you and succeeded. Roofing manufacturers like IKO will be only too pleased to help and they are not in competition with you. On the contrary, it is in their best interest to see you succeed and they have the experience to do precisely that. Register Your Business Set things up well with the government. When registering your roofing business, it’s also a good idea to register a “doing business as” (DBA) name. A catchy trade roofing business name can carry far more commercial value than a family name when it comes time to sell in the future. Decide whether you want to be a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation or limited liability company (LLC). Consult with a lawyer in your area to see which entity is best for you. Register in the U.S Register in Canada Licensing Get the authorization you need to operate. Contracting licenses for roofing businesses differ for each jurisdiction. To determine requirements in your area, check with state/provincial authorities. Local business permits may be required for each municipality you work in. Contact city hall to find out and obtain such permits when needed. Local government bodies might also demand approvals on zoning, planning and safety inspections. Insure Your Future Protect your investment. Roofing is a rugged business in which accidents and injuries can and do occur. Insurance provides the means to financially protect your company, your employees, your customers and yourself against damage to life and limb, destruction of property and lawsuits. While you will always need general liability insurance, each state and province have different insurance requirements for roofing contractors. To ensure the protection you need for your roofing company’s security, these are the types of insurance you should examine with your insurance agent: General Liability Insurance – Covers damage and injury to parties other than your employees.Workers’ Compensation – Covers work-related injuries to employees. Requirements vary from state to state, dependent on number of employees. This is required in all provinces.Professional Liability Insurance – Protects your business against lawsuits.Personal Liability Insurance – Protects you in case of injury.Vehicle Insurance – Protects your work vehicles.Equipment Insurance – Protects your investment in tools and equipment. Set Up Shop You don’t need a complete office to start. A desk, a phone and some basic stationery can get your roofing business rolling. Use the planner function in your phone to schedule customer appointments. Set up space in your spare room, basement or garage.Install a business phone or record a professional message for your personal phone.Add an email address dedicated to your roofing company.Order or create Estimate and Invoice forms online. Round Up Your Equipment Never mind new when used will do. Equipment and tools to start a roofing company will depend on the type of roofing you provide. Residential roofing is cheaper and the easiest way to start. Commercial requires more capital. Equipment will probably account for the largest portion of your startup costs. So, buy tools as jobs require them and never spend more than you have to during startup. Don’t buy a new truck when an old one will do. You may be able to get a good used one for under $10k. Here are some basic items you may need: Truck.Roof rack.Ladder.Safety harness.Nail gun.Hand tools such as a shingle hatchet.Power ladder (optional). Choose Your Suppliers Meet all those nearest you and take your pick. Decide the type of roofing material you want to work with. Asphalt shingles are recommended to begin with; they are the most common and most in demand. You can purchase builder-grade shingles for quality installation or premium laminated shingles, which typically cost more, but look better, usually offer a longer limited warranty term, and may allow you to sell jobs for more money. Now talk to the roofing suppliers in your area. Check to see if they’ve got what you need, if there’s a delivery or rooftop charge, that you can buy on credit, and look for special rebates or promotions from manufacturers. Go with the supplier that best fits your needs. Hire Your Crew Hire carefully, retain the best. One of the best ways to hire new roofer employees is to talk to the people who come in and out of supplier stores. You preferably want people who know at least as much about roofing as you do, and this is exactly where you’ll find them. Ads on Craigslist can also pay off. Hire carefully, checking credentials, then keep the best and release the rest. When hiring employees, you can apply for payroll accounts through the Internal Revenue Service or Canada Revenue Agency website. Train Your New Hires Do it while they earn money for you. By all means train your employees on the job where you can watch and correct them. As their skills improve, so does their value to your business while they continue to make money for you in the process. You will also need to place high importance on safety training. You’ll find roofer safety issues in the U.S. thoroughly addressed at www.osha.gov. In Canada, the “Working at Heights” Training Course is required for all roofers in Ontario and Newfoundland and Labrador, with regulations for the entire country posted at www.fallpro.com. Sharpen Your Sales Skills Your future depends on how well you sell. You’ll be wearing every hat from director to driver when you first start your roofing business. But your most important role is going to be sales. Honing your sales skills at every opportunity will be time well spent. The better you are, the bigger you’ll be. Create a Good-Looking Sales Kit Show what you’ve done in the past. For sales presentation purposes, keep a record of your customers, the jobs you’ve done, where you did them and ask for reviews with permission to publish. Make an attractive presentation folder containing photos and references that you can show with pride – “before and after” pictures of some roofs you’ve installed can be a great visual sales tool. Create a gallery of best work on your phone or iPad as you go. Select Your Method of Payment Start with cash. With everything in place, you now need to decide how you want to be paid. Cash and perhaps checks are definitely a smart way to start. As your business grows, you can appeal to more customers by accepting credit and debit cards. This is easily done by contacting your bank and opening a merchant account. In the US, you might also consider the latest trend of working with a finance company like GreenSky to offer preapproved loans for your customers. Promote Your Business Don’t pay for advertising till you’ve maxed everything else. To get those roofing jobs coming in, there’s so much you can do before spending money on advertising. Some of the cheapest strategies would involve: Well-signed vehicle – big name, big phone number and web address.Small mobile phones website, which you can create by filling in online templates.Lawn signs — same as your truck signage — for every roofing site.Free business listing on Google and other online directories.Registering with HomeAdvisor/HomeStars. The more reviews you get, the more customers you attract. Tell prospects “Look us up on HomeStars.”Free Craigslist ads. Your next step up the sales ladder would be to create, print and distribute door-to-door flyers throughout every area in which you work. Words to the Wise Don’t bite off more than you can chew. Make your roofing equipment pay for itself before you buy more.Pursue only those jobs you can profitably complete.Focus on low liability sloped roofs and less on flat roofs, which may require open-flame torches. Don’t ignore the off-season. If you’re going to do business in a four-season climate, figure out how you’ll stay solvent during the downtime. Options to consider include: Set aside money to pay off-season expenses and bills.Create related work to fill in the gap — e.g., attic insulation.Toughen up for four-season roofing, to the extent feasible in your area. Don’t get caught short for sales tax money. It’s so easy to use sales tax money as it comes in. But remember, it’s not your money. Wherever you’re required to collect sales tax, you’re going to be required to account for same to the government. If you haven’t got it, you’re in a jam: Set up a proper business account for your roofing company.Discuss the merits of a set-aside account with your accountant.

Blog 0 10 min read

January 24, 2022

What Does Roof Maintenance Include?

In need of roof maintenance and wondering what it costs? You may also be wondering what exactly roof maintenance includes. Maintenance of your roof includes a few different things that we will cover in this article. In general roof maintenance includes: inspections, general roof repairs, debris removal, gutter cleaning and mold removal (among other things). To determine whether your roof is due for maintenance, it’s best to contact a professional roofing company. They can come out and do an inspection and provide an estimate. Then they’ll schedule a time to come out and do the maintenance or repairs. Safety is the top priority when doing roof repairs or roof replacements. It’s important not to take on this job if you do not have experience in roofing. While it may seem easy to just brush away debris, climbing on top of your roof is a safety risk in and of itself. It’s important that you take all safety precautions and leave it to the professionals. Importance of Roof Maintenance It’s important to maintain your roof so that you can keep its integrity and not have to pay for costly repairs or potentially a replacement. Performing routine maintenance can save you money in the long run. Some of the maintenance is something that you can do yourself at home. But if you don’t feel comfortable, or if you don’t have the right equipment, you can always call a professional roofing company to perform your maintenance for you. The overall benefits of roof maintenance are: Preventing further damageKeeping the integrity of your roof in checkRegular monitoring of any damage to your roof These benefits are important in keeping the structure of your house in good health. If your roof is compromised, then your whole home could be compromised. It’s important that you keep your roof well maintained regularly. What is Roof Maintenance? There are several things that roof maintenance includes. Your roof needs regular maintenance because it helps to keep your roof in good shape. If you skip out on your routine roof maintenance, you’ll be paying for it eventually in the form of repair costs and/or a roof replacement. Roof maintenance general includes the following things: General roof repairRoof inspectionGutter cleaningDebris removalMold removal These are just a few things that maintenance generally includes. Let’s take a more in depth look at some of the things that are included in roof maintenance. Keep reading to learn more. Debris Removal This is something that most homeowners CAN actually do themselves (as long as it doesn’t require getting up on the roof yourself). If you have a tool that can reach your roof, you can easily remove debris pile ups on top of your roof. Debris gets on your roof from wind or rain and if you don’t remove it it can become a bigger problem. Mold Removal You should also be sure to regularly remove any mold from your roof. Mold can quickly spread to other areas of the roof and your home, causing more damage. You can use your hose to gently spray away any mold or moss build up. If the mold is too widespread, you may need a professional roofer to come get rid of the mold for you. Gutter Cleaning Gutter cleaning is an important part of roof maintenance that many people don’t think of. However, if your gutters are left unclean and unattended to, it can cause harm and potential damage to your roof. You can clean your gutters using a hose and gently remove debris from your gutter. Or you can use a ladder to remove all the gutter debris by hand. Be sure to use safety measures if you use your ladder. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, contact a professional roofer. They can take care of your gutters for you. General Inspection and Repair Roof maintenance also includes general inspection and repair. You should get your roof inspected at least once a year. In Florida, we recommend getting a roof inspection annually and after any severe hurricane or natural disaster. In a roof inspection, a roofer will look for any loose shingles, loose nails or bolts, loose flashing or anything out of place. If they notice anything amiss, they can often repair it on the spot if it’s just a matter of something loosening that needs repaired. How Do You Know if Maintenance is Enough? Now that we’ve covered what routine maintenance on your roof includes, it’s time to talk about how we know if maintenance is enough. In some cases, maintenance is not sufficient enough to repair the damage and a full roof replacement is needed. The best way to determine whether you need to invest in a new roof is through a roof inspection. Your local Lakeland, FL roofing company, Residential Roofing Depot, can provide you with a free roof inspection and estimate. Just give us a call and we’ll get you on the schedule. In the meantime, there are a few factors that can help you figure out if a roof replacement is imminent or not. Keep reading to learn what these factors are. Roof Repair vs. Roof Replacement Getting your roof replaced is typically a much bigger undertaking than simply getting it repaired. However, it may be necessary if the damage to your roof is found irreparable upon inspection. A roofing company can come to your house and do an inspection to determine the scope of the project and what type of roofing services are needed. When you call Residential Roofing Depot, we won’t sugarcoat anything or exaggerate the damage – we give it to you straight so you know exactly what to expect. We’ll explore all repairing options before we determine it needs to be replaced, if it comes to that. We want to make the process as easy as possible for you. We know that re roofing cost is much higher than roof repair cost, so we work to provide you with the easiest solution available to you. Is it Time to Invest in a New Roof? Now it’s time to decide whether a roof replacement is necessary for your home. Your roof is a critical component of your home. If your roof was installed properly initially and it is still young, you probably won’t need to replace it. But if your roof is damaged and cannot be repaired, a roof replacement may be necessary. Replacing your roof in a timely fashion is important to the safety of you, your family and your home. You don’t want to leave any damage unrepaired because it can cause more damage or eventually cause the roof to collapse. To determine whether you need a roof replacement, look for these signs: Shingles cracking or curling: This is an easy one to notice. If you see damage to your shingles, give us a call.Granules are missing (bald spots): Bald spots in your shingles mean that they are not as durable as they once were.Attic has leaks or openings: If you notice that your attic has leaks or openings, it’s important to address this issue as soon as possible.Questionable workmanship: Your roof could be weak due to poor workmanship of your previous roofing company. If you suspect this to be the case, it’s important that you file a complaint as soon as possible. If you’ve seen these signs around your home or think it’s time for a roof replacement, call our professionals for a free roof inspection. We’ll assess the damage and let you know if it’s repairable or needs replacing. Work With a Roofing Company You Can Trust Residential Roofing Depot has a lot of years of experience in repairing roofs, roof maintenance and installing new roofs in and around Lakeland and Central Florida. If you think you are in need of roof replacement, call Residential Roofing Depot to get the best value for your hard-earned money. We will provide you with the best quality of service from start to finish. After you get your inspection with us, and choose us as your roofing company, we’ll be with you until well after your roof replacement is complete. If you ever have any questions during the process, we’re here to answer them for you. Whether it is about the quality of the roofing material or the quality of the installation, we provide you with the best of the best. You can feel confident that our roofing technicians will carry out the entire project with utmost competence, skills and professionalism. Residential Roofing Depot of Lakeland is here to help you with all of your roofing needs. Call us today for a free inspection and estimate for your roof repair or roof replacement costs. When you work with us, you can count on superior customer service and absolute attention to detail. Let us help you with your roofing needs. Work with a roofer you can trust!

Blog 0 7 min read

January 17, 2022

BENEFITS OF A LOCAL CONTRACTOR

Big-Name Retailers vs. Local Roofing Contractors When compared to big-box supply stores, local contractors and companies provide a better deal, a more professional relationship, and a higher-quality job. Here’s why you should think twice before going big-box. Hiring a local contractor allows you to find the best roofing expert possible. Local contractors compete to win your service through a combination of recommendations, reviews, local prices and local knowledge. Major retailers can drown negative reviews of their contract services behind generally positive reviews of their retail operations (two very different businesses), but local contractors have only their name and their portfolio of past jobs. By the laws of supply-and-demand, if a local contractor has a successful and growing business in your community, it’s worth getting a quote and checking out their testimonials. Beyond the quality of a local contractor’s craft is their expertise in the local area and the special needs of the community. For example, when a tornado struck the Dayton region in March 2019, hundreds of Daytonians were devastated by storm damage, including the Colonial Village, a large two-story brick apartment complex. Less than 36 hours after the storm, Enterprise Roofing reroofed and made water-tight the entire complex, which was only possible due to its dedicated team and demonstrated expertise. Hiring a local contractor puts you in control. When you go with a big name retailer for your roofing job, they hold the cards, set the prices and determine the contract. Because they have many roofing employees, you have no control over who actually ends up on your roof. In fact, the folks on the job can change from day to day, as can their consistency in expertise and experience. If something on the project goes awry, you have to go through a middleman, often calling an 800 number, to get it fixed. It’s not uncommon to spend hours on the phone with customer service representatives if a project doesn’t go as planned. On the flip-side, hiring a local contractor gives you complete control over your roofing job from start to finish. From the moment you shake hands and make a deal with your local roofing contractor to the final touches on your roof, you “manage” the project and have only one point-of-contact throughout the business relationship. After finding a local roofing contractor, he or she is accountable for work that meets your standards based on a mutually-agreed-upon contract. Hiring a local contractor makes for honest work. Your relationship with your contractor is just like a relationship with your barber or your babysitter. It should be based on mutual respect, trust, honesty and quality work. You should be able to call them whenever you need them. It may take some extra time to find the right roofer, but it’s worth it for an honest job that meets your expectations, and local contractors are your best bet. Typically, local contractors don’t have national brands or fancy TV ads. They are beholden only to the authentic reviews and recommendations of a community. It doesn’t get more honest than that. Own a business? Creating a relationship with a local roofing contractor is like having a reputable partner as a member of your team. They can work closely with you as an expert and consultant on commercial renovations in the local area, while tailoring their services to meet the unique needs of your business – a level of personalization and honest work you just won’t find at a big box store Hiring a local contractor gets you a competitive price. Big-name supply stores can set the price of their roofing services far above market value without fear of losing customers. To make matters worse, even if their prices are lower than local contractors, you’re actually still getting a worse deal. Why? Retailers pay their contractors only a portion of the commission, meaning the contractors are working at a rate so low, only new or inexperienced contractors are willing to take the job. For the highest quality, and most affordable roofing job from experienced experts you can trust, research the local contractors in your area.

Blog 0 3 min read

January 10, 2022

The Benefits of Building a Relationship with your Commercial Roofing Contractor

Your building’s roof is an important component in the protection of the people, investments and things you care about most. Building a relationship with your roofing contractor is vital to avoiding miscommunications and keeping your roof in the best condition with the least amount of setbacks. By developing a long-term relationship with a roofing contractor, you have the reassurance that your roofing needs will be met and your business can continue operating with little or no interruption. Partnering closely with your commercial roofing contractor provides the following advantages: Communication – This is the most important tool when working with your contractor. Be upfront about any concerns you may have before, during, and after the project is finished. Let your contractor know what the best way to contact you is and be sure to answer as quickly as possible. Familiarity – When you build a long-lasting relationship with a trustworthy and reliable roofing contractor, the contractor comes to know your roof better than anyone else. Familiarity with your building’s roofing system saves time and money. Also, the crew installing your roof will record important details that will expedite any maintenance and repair work versus hiring a brand new contractor who won’t have access to those records. Prevention – A contractor who only gets on your roof when it leaks won’t be able to detect problems in advance. However, a contractor who maintains your roof regularly will develop a more intimate understanding of your building and will be able to detect issues much sooner, which will prevent them from becoming major problems. Trust – Having trust in your roofing contractor is especially important when allowing them full access to your building. Choose your contractor wisely and be sure to check their references and reputation when doing so. Once you have decided, spend face time working with and getting to know them. Reliable Service – Depending on your roofing contractor to protect your business is fundamental in building a successful partnership, especially in the event of an emergency. The better relationship you develop, the more you can expect timely, cost-effective, honest service.

Blog 0 1 min read

December 27, 2021

Tips for Hiring a Professional Roofer

If you’ve never had to hire a roofing company, you may not know where to start. But there are many advantages to hiring a professional roofing company rather than doing it yourself. First and foremost, make sure to hire a roofer that is licensed, insured, and has experience in commercial and residential roof repair and replacements. Cost alone should never be the deciding factor in choosing a contractor, as the quality may be sacrificed. You definitely don’t want a roofer cutting corners on an important job. You should choose several companies to speak to before narrowing it down to one. Ask about their process, experience, proof of insurance, and costs. A reputable contractor is communicative, detail-oriented, and thorough. Follow these steps to find and hire a reliable roofing company to do all your roofing services for you. 1. Research Local Roofers You should do thorough research when you are looking to hire a professional roofer. We recommend looking at their project gallery, checking their reviews, and asking previous clients about their service. These are just a few important things to look for when you are hiring a roofing company for your home or business. Professionalism Roofers should provide a certain level of professionalism when they work on your roof. Taking on a roofing job is no easy task and it should be taken seriously. This includes using safety protocols and addressing any questions or concerns from the property owner. By talking to the roofing company’s past clients, you can get a feel for how they operate and get their jobs completed. You want to work with a company that is open, honest, and transparent. Number of Roofing Projects Check their website and project gallery to see how many jobs they have completed, how many years they have been in service, and what types of roofing jobs they have done. For example, in most roofing companies’ “About Us” section, you can find their history and more personal information about the owners. This gives you a better sense of who you are working with and what their roofing experience is like. In their project gallery, you can see the types of homes and businesses they have worked on and you can specifically search for a project that is similar to yours. For instance, if you have a flat roofing system for your business, you can search through a company’s gallery to look for a project where they worked on a flat roof. You could even take this a step further by contacting the business or homeowner and asking about the level of service they received. Positive Reviews You can find reviews on a company’s website, as well as other review sites or business sites like Yelp, Google, Better Business Bureau, Angie’s List, Home Advisor, and more. By searching through a number of sites for reviews, you can look for patterns in the types of comments people are leaving. If you see a certain characteristic repeated over and over, you can safely assume this characteristic is true of the company – good or bad. (i.e. if many of their past customers have written “bad customer service” in their reviews, you should take note of it.) 2. Get Multiple Quotes from Roofing Professionals Start by looking at your local roofing companies. Call the roofing company or companies you want to work with to set up an inspection. Many roofers near Lakeland will offer free inspections and estimates with no obligation. Take advantage of these services so you can feel confident that you are working with the right company. Do your research and/or call around to ask how you can start the process of getting your roofing services done. By researching multiple companies, you can get a better idea of their service and pricing. However, it’s not just about the money. There are a couple of things that you should look for in the quotes. Affordable Roofing Services After doing research, you will understand how pricing works with each company, which can help you in selecting a company that fits your budget. You should look for discrepancies in pricing, and ask each company what the services entail. This gives you a better idea of the scope of the project and what you should expect to pay. NOTE: Be cautious if you see an estimate that is much lower than others. It can be tempting to work with the cheapest company, but it can end up costing you more in the long run. If you work with a company that provides poor workmanship and does not properly repair or install your roof, it means more bills and roofing costs down the road. Scope of Work When you get your quotes, you should look at the service work that each company plans on providing. Compare it to the other quotes to see if the work listed is similar for all of them. If you notice one quote with a much larger or smaller scope of work than the others, this is a red flag. Be wary of a company that tries to provide you with more work than you need. On the other hand, if a company provides you with a quote for less work than the other companies you are researching, you should wonder if they are cutting corners, or hiding the actual amount of work so they can charge you more later. Timeframe for Work Check to see what each company says for how long it will take them to complete your project. There shouldn’t be a big discrepancy in the time it takes each company to complete the work, because the type of work they are doing should be similar. If you happen to notice a company that says they can complete the work much faster, ask them about it. They should be open to having a discussion with you about the services they plan to provide you. 3. Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) Ratings The Better Business Bureau is a dedicated agency that acts as an ethical marketplace for buyers and sellers. There are many rating elements that BBB takes into consideration when they give a business a rating grade. They take things like time in business, type of business, level of transparency in business practices, and complaint volume into consideration when they rate a business. When BBB looks at complaint volume, they also look at how the complaints have been resolved so that you know how issues are handled within a specific business. Using BBB when searching for a roofing company helps you understand not only the history of the business but their history in handling customer complaints. You can find detailed information about specific complaints and the whether the roofing company took care of them satisfactorily, poorly, or whether they were ignored. 4. Look for Roofing Contractors With Credible Designations Certain manufacturers will give designations to roofing companies who pass their requirements. For example, GAF has a top designation known as Master Elite®. Master Elite® Contractors make up only 2% of roofing contractors per market, so you can feel confident that you are working with a credible roofer in your area. There are also trusted business sites, like Home Advisor, that offer badges and designations to businesses that have shown a history of positive reviews, and other factors as well. On Home Advisor, your business can be listed as a business that provides “Elite Service” or that has been “Screened and Approved” by their internal background check. These kinds of designations give customers added peace of mind that they are working with a trusted, credible roofer. 5. Use a Roofing Company that Can Provide Licensing and Insurance Information It’s important that your roofing company has liability and workers’ compensation insurance as well as a business license to operate where you live. You should not be afraid to ask for proof of these things. They should also be bonded. When a roofing company is bonded, it means they have taken this extra step to give you added protection as their customer. It essentially holds the company accountable for completing the work they have agreed to complete. Having workers’ compensation insurance is important too because it means that your roofing company takes full responsibility in case of any injuries or fatalities on the job. Liability insurance also holds them accountable for any mishaps or missteps they make on the job. For instance, if your chimney is not part of the scope of their work but they do damage to your chimney, that is something they are responsible for, not you. 6. Ask about Safety Protocols Do not be afraid to ask the roofing companies you are considering about their safety protocols. Especially during COVID, you want to ensure the safety of your home and family. But regardless of a pandemic, there are certain safety measures that all roofing companies should adhere to. Safety Equipment Your roofing company’s safety equipment should be up to date and properly working. Ladders should be stable and properly secured to something, all roofers should be wearing the correct personal protection equipment (PPE), and cords should be properly secured so no one trips over them. Preparing Your Home This is especially important if you are getting a new roof installed. Your roofing company should help you prepare your home and family for the roofing services. This means boarding up or covering up any areas of your home that will be exposed to the elements during the roofing job. It also means moving furniture that could get damaged when they work on the roof. Be sure to talk to your roofing company in depth so you understand the scope of the work. Work with a Trusted Local Roofing Company Remember: don’t settle for just any roofer! You should do your research on several local roofing companies to find which one works best for you. And we feel confident that Residential Roofing Depot can help you with any roofing job! Whether you need a full roof replacement or a few simple repairs or anything in between, call Residential Roofing Depot to get the best value for your hard-earned money. We will always provide you with the best quality of service from the initial inspection to the final finishing touches. After you get your inspection with us and choose us as your roofing company, we’ll be with you until well after your roof replacement is complete. If you ever have any questions during the process, we’re here to answer them for you. You can feel confident that our roofing technicians will carry out the entire project with the utmost competence, skills, and professionalism. Whether it is about the quality of the roofing material or the quality of the installation, we provide you with the best of the best. Give us a call today to get started – we’re here to help you with all your roofing needs!

Blog 0 9 min read

December 6, 2021

Things to help win roofing clients’ trust

A roof provides not only shelter and security, but it shields us from the elements and keeps our families safe. If you want clients to trust your roofing company, you have to focus on making your marketing materials shine. A roof is a lot of things, but to your clients, it’s the very symbol of their shelter and security. It shields them from the elements and keeps their families safe. That is to say, clients are wise to vet their roofers carefully. They don’t want to trust just anyone making repairs. They want a roofer they can trust – someone who understands the weather in the area and can make fixes that can hold up against the region’s storms and challenges. So how can you show roofing clients that they are right to put their trust in your roofing company? Be sure your marketing materials – everything from your roofing business’s website to its flyers – put the following credibility-builders front and center. Showcase your past work They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but when it comes to photos of your past work, your clients may need some help understanding what they are looking at. So educate them! On your website, show before and after photos of the roof work you’ve done. Explain the repairs you made and the purpose those fixes serve.For example, a before photo shows curling asphalt shingles. Under that photo, you might explain how these brittle, buckling shingles have maxed out their life expectancy. The after photo can show brand new shingles. Explain how a new asphalt shingle roof should last 20 to 25 years so clients see the benefit of this work. Keep in mind that your clients may have no experience with roofing and repairs, so make sure to discuss your work in a concise and easy-to-grasp way. All this legwork shows that you care about the clients’ needs and that you want them to be informed – you’re not trying to keep them in the dark to upsell them. Display your Better Business Bureau rating seal If you haven’t already, look into getting your business accredited by the Better Business Bureau. You can learn about the accreditation process on the BBB’s website. Once accredited, you can use the BBB seal on your website and other marketing materials to show clients that you have the appropriate licensure and that your business can be held accountable for its work. That may bolster clients’ confidence in your roofing business. After all, most people are familiar with BBB ratings and may even research your company through the BBB when deciding whether or not to work with you. Offer proof of insurance upon request The fact that you have roofers insurance – which may include general liability insurance with product liability coverage and workers’ compensation insurance – should be noted right alongside your licensure and permits. Insurance demonstrates that you have the means to handle financial setbacks associated with your work. If you build a defective roof that causes water damage to a client’s home, they will want a way to recover those damages. Your insurance essentially acts as proof that you can put your money where your mouth is. On your website or marketing materials, make sure to note that you can produce a certificate of liability insurance when your clients request it. Learn what it means to be bonded and insured. Highlight your local experience Clients want to do business with local roofers because they understand the area and can make repairs that account for the type of climate the house is exposed to. And if a local roofer is part of the community, they probably aren’t trying to rip people off and run. Show clients, they can trust your roofing business by publishing testimonials from local clients on your website. (Be sure to get their permission first!) You can ask those clients for referrals, too.

Blog 0 3 min read