These days, homeowners from across the U.S. have many roofing materials to choose from. Among the popular ones include asphalt shingles, wood, slate, metal, tile, clay and concrete that are offered in various styles, colors, and costs. These roofing materials provide distinct characteristics that can enhance any home architecture.
In most areas in the U.S., however, like the densely populated state in the East Coast, Maryland, asphalt shingles remain the top choice of homeowners for roofing materials. Nevertheless, despite the type of roof you might prefer, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) has posted some educational consumer tips on its website, bbb.org, for choosing a roofing company. Hence, for homeowners who may be looking for reliable roofers in Maryland, it would be wise to read and heed the bureau’s valuable advice.
The BBB starts the article with some general advice by listing what a legitimate roofer must be able to provide for a prospective client. This includes local references and roofing testimonials, business license, roofing credentials, workers compensation insurance, general liability insurance, and written manufacturer warranties. In other words, deal only with licensed and insured roofers with proven track records.
It would be better if you could get hold of a list of a roofer’s recent clients and call them to verify the quality of his job. You can also ask for recommendations from family, friends, or neighbors and other sources like insurance agencies or claims adjusters. Check with the Better Business Bureau in your area or the Home Builders Association for any complaints that may have been filed against the roofer you intend to hire.
Remember that most reputable roofers have their own specializations in terms of certifications from roofing manufacturers. If you want asphalt shingle roofing, for example, look for a certified contractor like DryTech Roofing & Home Solutions to install this type of material. These skilled Maryland roofers have undergone training from the roofing manufacturer for the latest in asphalt roofing technology.
Homeowners must not rush, however, into signing any contract either for repairs or replacement of roofing systems. Don’t be tempted to choose the lowest bidder for they will not necessarily provide savings—in fact, a botched job can be more expensive in the long term. Examine all the work details in the proposed contract and make sure they’re in order; also see to it that you heed every last piece of the BBB’s advice so you can be sure that you’ll get the right roofing company for your home requirements.