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Choosing a Roofing Contractor: 5 Questions to Ask a Professional

A roof system is an important investment that should be protected by both a quality product and quality workmanship.  With over 70 years in the industry, A. Clark Roofing and Siding LP has led the roofing industry in terms of professional customer service and quality standards.

Here is a quick set of questions you can ask a roofing contractor to ensure you are getting a professional estimate for your home:

Can I make an appointment for a free estimate?

Estimates for both new home construction and renovation should be free of charge and should be able to be scheduled in a timely manner convenient to you.  Meeting with the customer to discuss the condition of the roof and the options available is an important part of getting the right service for your home, and has been standard practice for A. Clark for many years.

Will you inspect my roof?

With the advancement of technology, it is now possible to get an accurate measurement of a roof using satellite imagery or drone technology.  These, while fairly accurate, are no substitute for getting up on a roof and inspecting the conditions first hand.  The condition of the shingles and the firmness of the decking underneath can only be properly assessed by mounting the roof.  Chimneys, skylights, solar tunnels, and other penetrations may need servicing or replacement, and these could be very costly overlooked extras.  As a final process, A. Clark roofing specialists will always inspect a job before it is declared completed to ensure our quality is of the highest standard and to catch any mistakes before they turn into costly repairs.  Many companies will exclude this final and critical step, waiting instead for the homeowner to report any problems with the roof installation.

Do you have WCB (Worker’s Compensation Board) coverage?

Accidents in the roofing industry are fairly rare but can be dangerous and even lethal.  WCB is mandatory in Alberta for employers to provide their employees in the event of a work-related injury.  Liability for an injury suffered by a non-WCB covered worker on a home is a very grey area, and unsafe work conditions may even lay some of the responsibility on the homeowner.  Lending any equipment to workers may also land the homeowner in hot water in the event of an accident–never do this for any reason!

If I sign a contract, how soon can work be completed and what is the process?

While the summer months can be a very busy time for the roofing industry, a signed contract should be executed in as timely a manner as possible.  You should be informed of the loading date of the roofing material and the date of installation.  Care should be shown for your surrounding property as work is completed to avoid any damage.  If the work cannot be completed in a single day, workers must ensure they waterproof your roof for when work can resume.  Upon completion, a full clean-up of the job site must be guaranteed.  As a final very important consideration:  You should not issue any payment until the contract is fully completed.

What is your workmanship warranty?

Deficiencies in workmanship will often be evident after the first rainfall, or otherwise within the first two years after installation.  A basic workmanship warranty will at the very least cover this period.  A very important thing to consider when hiring a contractor is how long they have been in business.  Often, roofers will migrate across the country for seasonal work, starting up new companies that later dissolve in the same year.  Getting these workers to repair or service a deficient installation is impossible, and so as we say, many of these, kind of companies offer “taillight” warranties (as long as you can see the taillights of the truck, you are covered).

Seeking a roofing contractor? A. Clark Roofing and Siding contractors work with both residential and commercial clients. Call us and get a free quote from one of our experienced technicians.

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