Having a roof installed on a commercial building is a big step. It’s a large investment, and you’ll likely be living (or at least working) under the result for 20 years or more. It makes sense, therefore, that you should ensure you’re educated on the topic before you choose a roofing company to replace your roof. This way, you can feel confident that you’re getting quality work at a good price.
To begin with, it will help immensely to understand the estimate process. You may be calling several companies to provide an estimate, and comparing the estimates can be difficult without knowing something about the process in advance. Below, we’ve outlined some of the major steps of the process, and why they are important.
A Detailed Inspection
A good contractor will come out and inspect your commercial building and ask questions about the building’s past, the roof’s history, and what you expect from the replacement process. This will take time, as there are many elements that need to be evaluated, including the roof itself, which needs to be thoroughly examined.
Time to Prepare an Estimate
While it may be tempting to ask for an estimate on the spot, resist the temptation. A reputable contractor will need time to evaluate the information gathered and put together a thoughtful and accurate estimate.
The Type of Roof You Want
One size does not fit all when it comes to commercial roofs, and you will have some decisions to make with the contractor you choose. There will be different approaches to replacing the roof depending on what you’re looking for when it comes to curb appeal, energy efficiency (“cool roof” technology, for example), longevity, and chemical resistance. Is your building primarily in the sun or in the shade? Is it under trees and prone to growing moss? Will you need roof cleaning? How large is the roof, and how far off the ground? How complicated is it? These factors will affect the type of roof that’s best for your building and your goals.
Understanding the Estimate
The more detailed the estimate, the more tools you’ll have to evaluate your choices for contractors. Typically, the estimate will be split into several categories: materials, labor, warranty, the timeline for work as well as payment, and the contractor’s liability if the building is damaged during the roofing process. Be sure the estimates you are given provide details in all these categories, and break out the costs so you can better evaluate and compare them.
Choose a Reputable Roofing Contractor
Marquis Roofing is a professional, experienced, and insured roofing contractor, with over 20 years of experience in New Hampshire roofing. Services include residential roofing, commercial roofing, asphalt shingles, metal, and flat roofing. Our team of professionals provides roof replacements, roof cleaning, and roof repair throughout Southern New Hampshire, in the Nashua/Manchester/Concord region, up through Central NH and the Lakes Region, and we have now expanded into Massachusetts. For more information or an estimate, visit our website or call 603-463-0219.
