August
2010
Its been a good summer weather wise, for the most part, can’t really complain. Although we have had some severe flash flood storms in June and July. As quick as they were, they brought a lot of damage to plenty of homes across Massachusetts (i.e. my apartment…..). Anyways, roofs have been damaged and when this happens all of sudden there happens to be a thousand different contractors in your neighborhood. Here are some tips to help confirm the legitamacy of some these contractors.
First things first, it is super important to address your damaged roof as soon as possible, it is something that you cannot afford to let sit, the last thing you want is a mold issue on top of this, trust me, I know from experience. Start by giving your insurance company a call, theres a solid chance they’ll be able to recommend you a contractor and cover some or all of your repairs. I find the way best thing to do is use a local roofer with a great, lengthy track record. The convenience of a local roofer mixed with a great history is the ideal worker. The one problem with local contractors is that they are often fully booked after damaging rain storms, there is a great possibility that he won’t be able to squeeze you in for weeks or even months and like I mentioned above, do not wait around on a rain damaged roof. So before you go to an outsider, make sure you check the Better Business Bureau and call state licensing agencies to see if the company has met all licensing and bonding requirements. Its okay to ask to see the roofer’s certificates of workmans compensation and proof of current liability insurance. Also don’t feel obligated to pay the full amount up front, instead pay a deposit of a third or half of the work and then pay the remaining balance once you’re satisfied with the workmanship and have closely examined the invoices made by the suppliers and subcontractors.
Pricing is another concern that should be always looked into. Prices will always vary depending on whether your home is a single story or two story and its also based on the roof’s pitch and the condition of your plywood sheathing. But here is what to expect to pay: between $40 – $80 per square or 100 square feet to tear off old shingles and perhaps an additonal $150 – $300 for flashing for chimneys and another $25 for piping needs. You’ll also need to pay for the cost of the new material and its installation which can run about $75 – $100 per square for basic three tab asphalt shingles, but as long as you are replacing the roof, you should consider an upgrade and for about $125 – $175 per square you can get thicker, impact resistant shingles that resisi hail damage and may make you qualified for a discount towards your insurance. If you can afford it, raise the bar a little and get some more durable long lasting materials like concrete tile or slate which can range between $500 – $1000 per square. No matter what you choose to do, make sure you take care of it quickly through a legitamate contractor. For further contracting tips or to get a referal from us please contact Epapa27@yahoo.com
Related Articles:
Sponsored By:
- No sponsors for this posts.
Discussion
3 Comments Comments
3 Responses to “Tip of the Week: Damaged Roof? Avoid Shady Contractors”Speak Your Mind
Tell us what you're thinking...
and oh, if you want a pic to show with your comment, go get a gravatar!
Great tips! The Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) offers free information to help homeowners understand more about impact-resistant roofing and to find a list of contractors certified to install this type of roofing material. Check it out at http://www.DisasterSafety.org/hail.
Thanks!
well written blog. Im glad that I could find more info on this. thanks