8 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Roofing Contractor

Is your roof in need of a change, but you don’t know which contractor to hire? Shop around and ask these 8 roofing questions and answers that will help you choose the most reputable roofing contractor for the job!

Hiring a Roofing Contractor Checklist: 8 Essential Questions

#1: Will you remove my old roof?

Almost all roofers will remove your old roof as a part of their services, but it’s still an essential question to ask.

Less experienced and shady roofers will sometimes cut corners to save time and money, putting the new roof over your old one. The problem with keeping the old is that though the roof looks brand new when they’re done, the old materials will continue to rot and deteriorate underneath, which can compromise the entire structure.

If they’re not removing the old roof, they also won’t be able to get a good look at your sheathing or underlayment, which may require repair or replacement.

Always choose a roofer that removes the old build before they start laying your new roof.

#2: Do you have a WSIB clearance certificate (and can I see it)?

Every business in Ontario should be registered with the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board, which helps keep employees and contractors safe.

It’s even more relevant when a business has a bigger potential for employee danger - you want to make sure you’re covered if a roofer injures themselves on the job at your home and that the employee will be legally protected, too.

A WSIB clearance certificate is issued to employers registered and up-to-date with their WSIB reporting and payments.

If a contractor can’t prove that they’re in good standing, their operations could leave you and their employees unprotected.

#3: Will you install drip edges?

Drip edges help direct the flow of water off and away from your roof and into your eavestroughs, and without them, you may end up with water damage to the fascia, soffits, and decking.

While many roofers install these metal edges, some don’t, so you’ll want to ask the roofer to confirm they’ll be adding the extra protection of drip edges during the install.

Choose a contractor that installs drip edges for better roofing longevity and damage prevention.

#4: Will you reuse the flashing or install a new one?

Old flashing only needs to be replaced with a roof replacement if it’s in poor shape, but it’s something you should almost always do while the roofer is replacing everything else.

Though keeping the old flashing will help you save on costs, it may reduce the longevity of your new roof or lead to future roof issues.

Replacing the flashing isn’t a simple job - it requires removing and measuring the existing ones, custom bending the new ones, and installing them properly. Some inexperienced roofers will try to avoid this difficult task, but the new flashing needs to integrate perfectly with you new shingle type and roof dimensions.

When in doubt, change the flashing out and find a roofer that doesn’t take shortcuts.

#5: What is my plywood cost to replace any rotten decking?

Roof and other building supplies are more expensive than ever, which is why you’ll want to find out how much it will cost for those unexpected surprises roofers run into, like rotten or soft decking.

If found, it absolutely needs to be replaced, so ask questions on how the roofing company prices out such repairs so you don’t end up racking up a far larger bill than expected. By getting the company to agree on a price beforehand, you’ll have a better handle on the budget you need to prepare.

Find out about the potential for the unexpected, so you know what to look for in a roofing estimate.

#6: How many nails will you use per shingle?

It’s essential to hire a solid roofing contractor that uses at least four nails per shingle for adequate security, with steeper slopes and areas exposed to high winds requiring six.

Installers must also insert them at the proper depth to avoid tearing or air bubbles along the nail line, so it catches the shingles just right. When nails aren’t inserted properly, the warranty on your roof will be void, putting you at risk of footing the bill for a replacement if the installers don’t do a good job.

Listen for clear and confident answers when asking the roofers about the technical aspects of the install.

#7: How will you cut your shingles?

Cutting shingles needs the precision of absolute measurement, not to be done by the naked eye. Cutting shingles on a straight edge with a hoof or straight blade is the industry standard for an accurate shingle install that perfectly protects the roof.

Installers should also use a chalk line to keep the shingles aligned as they install them, especially over vast areas.

Find a roofing company that measures twice and cuts once with accurate installing practices.

#8: How will you leave my home each day?

Roofing contractors move very quickly, but a roof replacement is a big job to undertake, even for well-experienced roofers.

Often, roofing crews take several days to remove your old roof, make any repairs, and properly install your new one. Roofers should avoid removing your entire roof at once, opting instead to remove the shingles gradually and work to replace those removed shingles on the same day, slowly moving from area to area.

If they plan to remove your entire roof and leave it exposed overnight, your home will be left vulnerable to potential water damage without the help of a well-placed tarp.

Along with protecting your home, you’ll also want to ensure you’re hiring a crew that cleans up well every night. Leaving a mess can be unsightly for the neighbors, and loose nails or shingles can be a sharp hazard for people and pets walking by.

Ensure the roofers have a plan of attack to gradually remove and replace your roof by area, cleaning up any dangerous bits at the end of each workday.

Finding the Right Contractors for your Job

Use this roof replacement checklist when you’re shopping around for your best quote from a reputable roofing contractor.