For some homeowners, replacing their roof or siding is a once-in-a-lifetime event. Most people could count on one hand the number of major renovation projects with which they have been involved. This can put many homeowners at a disadvantage when they start collecting quotes for a new roof or replacement siding. There are many possible ways — including some unethical ones — in which a quote can be tendered. If you know what to look for in the quotes you receive, you will have a better chance of getting quality results at an appropriate price.
Siding & Roofing Quotes – Examine the Specific Details
When it comes to quotes, you need to examine the details. However, the details are more than just a list of the services that will be performed. For example, a quote for roof replacement and replacing them with new ones conveys little in the way of details. Even listing the brand, style and color of the new shingles is not sufficiently specific. You need to know who will pay for the disposal of the old shingles, whether repairs to the decking are included, the type of underlayment that will be used, whether the shingles will be attached by hand and every other material, cost and action that will comprise the job. If tree limbs or shrubs need to be trimmed away from the siding or roof, for example, the quote should state whether the contractor’s crew will handle the task and how much this will cost. If you are having siding installed, you need to know whether the quote includes a vapor barrier. A roofing quote should detail the specifications for vents, flashing and other rooftop penetrations.
Siding & Roofing Quotes – Compare Apples to Apples
Once you have quotes in hand, go line by line to compare the specifications. Perhaps one contractor submitted a lower bid because he is planning to use 20-year shingles, but the other contractors quoted the price for 30-year shingles. Perhaps one siding contractor does not mention corner boards, cornice molding and other trim, indicating that he may be planning to charge you extra for those features. Narrow your list of potential contractors to those who are quoting on identical work and who are adhering to the specifications that you requested. For example, if you requested a quote to install wood siding, you can eliminate a contractor who insists that what you really want is vinyl siding and quotes accordingly.
Siding & Roofing Quotes – Check Out the Contractor
Suppose that you have collected multiple bids and compiled a list of three contractors whose quotes seem specific and identical. However, one contractor has quoted a price that is substantially lower than the other two quotes. Although you may end up hiring this contractor, before you do, you should check out a few things. Sometimes, extremely low quotes reflect a company with little or no experience, no insurance coverage, no permanent office and no references. At the very least, ask for proof of workers’ comp and general liability insurance; call the insurance company or agent listed to verify that the policies are still in effect. If the contractor provides you references, contact them to ask about the quality of his work and whether they would hire the same contractor in the future. Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if the company is rated or has unresolved complaints. If you do not get satisfactory answers, eliminate the contractor from your list. Potentially, any savings on the job could be offset by unexpected expenses in the future — such as a lawsuit filed by an uninsured worker who is injured on your property.
Siding & Roofing Quotes – Check the Payment Terms
It is extremely rare for a reputable roof contractor to ask for a large down payment, and about the only time this may happen is if the contractor is ordering custom materials for your job that he would not be able to return or use elsewhere if you change your mind. Otherwise, a trustworthy contractor will seldom request more than 10 percent or the amount of your deductible if he is going to wait for your insurance company to pay for the work. Be wary of any contractor who needs a huge down payment for a routine job, and never pay for the entire job up front.
Make Alpha Roofing Your Source for Roofing and Siding
Alpha Roofing is an award-winning provider of roofing and siding services in Austin, Tx and known for the quality of its work, the expertise of its dedicated employees, its outstanding professionalism and knowledge of the industry. We install asphalt shingles and metal roofing systems, and siding, skylights. We also repair roofs, chimneys and flashing. If you have more questions about Siding & Roofing Quotes and would like to receive a free, detailed, no-obligation quote, fill out the online form or call one of our friendly staff members at (512) 777-1086.