Time for a New Roof? Part 1

Ask Your Roofing Contractor these 5 Questions First

Has your roof seen better days? Roof aging can sneak up on you. After all, if the average asphalt shingle lasts for 20 years, it’s easy to lose track. It’s even more complicated if you didn’t purchase the home when the roof was new. 

When Is It Time To Replace a Roof?

When should you consider a Kansas roof replacement? Some of the best indicators that it’s time to start thinking about a new roof in Overland Park include the following:

• You see staining or peeling on the ceiling 
• The shingles look worn or damaged
• You notice a lot of granules under your gutter downspouts
• You notice stains or leaks in the attic

Any of these could be signs letting you know when it’s time to replace a roof. And when you make that decision, it’s important to choose the right roofing contractor. That can be harder than it sounds. To help make sure you select the best possible contractor for your Kansas roof replacement, Shamrock Roofing and Construction recommends asking the following questions.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Contractor for a New Roof in Overland Park

1. Are you licensed and insured? Can I see proof of that?

You must choose a roofing contractor who is licensed to operate in Kansas and who carries the proper insurance. Never be afraid to ask for proof. Any self-respecting contractor should be willing and able to show you both their license and proof of liability and worker’s compensation insurance coverage. If the contractor can’t or won’t provide this proof, call someone else instead. A contractor who operates without these essential safeguards in place leaves you open to liability you don’t want to deal with.

2. How long have you been in business?

All roofing contractors were new at some point, so there’s nothing inherently wrong with hiring a newcomer. However, working with a seasoned pro offers significant peace of mind. If they’ve been in the industry for years, they’re probably doing something right for their customers.

3. Who will be installing my roof? Can I visit an active job site to watch them work?

Make sure the crew that will be installing your new roof in Overland Park is up to the task. Ideally, the roofer will have their own employees rather than subcontracting the job out to others. Try to get permission to visit an active job site so you can see the crew in action (plus get a feel for the quality of their work). The way the contractor handles this request will tell you a lot about how they handle their roofing projects.

4. What steps do you take to safeguard my home, yard, and family?

Roofing can be dangerous and destructive if not handled correctly. Ask the roofer about damage to the yard, safety precautions to protect you and your family, and how they handle worker safety. Also ask about their clean-up process. You’ll want to choose a roofer who leaves your property in the same condition it was when they arrived — except for the new roof!

5. How will roof penetrations be handled?

Most roofs have several different penetrations – vent pipes for moist areas such as bathrooms and laundry rooms, exhaust ports for range hoods, attic vents, and more. Ask how the roofer will handle these. If not sealed properly, your roof may be subject to leaks in these vulnerable areas.

Get in Touch with Shamrock Roofing and Construction

At Shamrock Roofing, we have extensive experience handling new roofs and roof replacements in Overland Park and the surrounding areas. We’d love to help you protect your home, as well. Get in touch with us to learn more or to schedule a free roof inspection and quote.