Did you know that the average asphalt shingle roof lasts around [20 years](https://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/family-finance/articles/how-long-can-you-expect-your-roof-or-fridge-to-last#:~:text=Slate%2C copper and tile roofs,20 years%2C the NAHB found.)? If your roof is old, falling apart, rotting, or leaking, it is time to hire a roofing company to install a new roof.

Installing a new roof can increase your house value, prevent pests, and stop water damage. Because installing a new roof is expensive, you should hire a reliable company with a good reputation, fair prices, and plenty of experience.

What are some questions you should ask a roofing company before hiring them? Keep reading to learn how to choose a roofing company.

1. How Long Have You Been in Business?

When looking for the best roofing company, one of the first questions you should ask is how long they have been in business. You will have your new roof for a long time, so you want to make sure the company sticks around.

If you choose a company that has been in business for 20 years, the odds are good that it will be in business for 20 more years. That means you won't have to worry as much about maintenance and your roof's warranty.

A company with experience will also be able to provide more references, know how to choose the best roofing materials, and provide better support if you have problems with your roof.

2. Are You Licensed and Insured?

Before hiring roofing services, you should ask if they have a license and insurance. Not all states require roofing companies to have a license, but most do.

Before researching contractors, make sure you understand the requirements in your state and city. You can also see if the contractor's license is in good standing and if they have done anything to violate their license.

The contractor you choose should also have business insurance. Business insurance will protect you if someone gets hurt on your property or if the roofing company damages your property.

3. Do You Offer a Warranty?

When looking for the best roofing company, make sure they offer a warranty. Installing a new roof costs thousands of dollars, so the last thing you want is a new roof that leaks or falls apart.

If you choose a company that offers a warranty, you won't have to worry if there are problems with your new roof.

Typically, you can expect the roofing manufacturer to offer a warranty on the materials, and the roofing company will offer a warranty on the installation.

You can expect the installation warranty to last anywhere from a year to a lifetime. You can also ask the roofing company if they offer an extended paid warranty on the roof.

4. Do You Offer Written Estimates?

One of the best ways to compare roofing companies is to look at written estimates. Professional roofing companies will provide an estimate that includes materials, labor, and roof removal.

If the company doesn't provide a written estimate, that is a red flag. That last thing you want is to get an expensive surprise after installing your new roof.

To get an accurate estimate, the roofing company should come to inspect your roof, talk to you about materials, and determine the timeline.

5. Can You Provide References?

Before you choose a company to install a new roof on your house, you should ask if they can provide references. If the company has the experience, they should have no problem providing references.

Ask for references from projects they have completed in the past year. Talking with past clients can give you a better idea of what it is like to work with a contractor.

You can ask if the contractor was professional and reliable. You can also find out if past clients had any issues with their new roof and how the roofing company handled it.

In addition to asking for references, you can also read online reviews. To find online reviews, check the company's website, search results, and social media.

6. How Will You Protect My Property?

When you hire a roofing company, you shouldn't have to worry about your house and landscaping. After installing the roof, your home, shrubs, outdoor lights, and pathways should all look the same.

Before choosing a company, ask how they will protect your yard. Some roofing companies create a path for their workers, materials, and equipment so they don't damage your property.

You also should ask if the contractors will drop objects from the roof. If so, make sure there is nothing in the way that can get damaged and keep your children and pets inside during construction.

7. How Long Will My New Roof Last?

One of the most important considerations when installing a new roof is how long it will last. The roofing company you choose should walk you through which roofing materials will work best for your house.

For example, if you live in a damp area, you may not want to install wood roofing. If you live somewhere that gets plenty of snow, you should choose a material that can handle the weight of the snow.

How much money you want to spend will also determine how long your roof will last. If you are on a tight budget, asphalt shingles are a good option, but they won't last as long as other roofing materials.

Some roofing materials that will last a long time include metal, slate, and copper roofing.

Are You Ready to Hire the Best Roofing Company?

Installing a new roof on your house is a great way to increase your property value, protect your home from the elements, and prevent water damage. Before hiring a roofing company, keep these common questions in mind.

Are you ready to hire a St. Cloud, FL roofing company? If so, check out our residential roofing services to get started today.

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