Finding a reputable company to fix your roof can be overwhelming. We've created a list of 7 crucial steps to check off before getting your roof repaired to help you avoid throwing away money and waste your time.

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Step #1 - The 4 step process of getting your roof fixed/installed

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Conduct Your Research

While it may seem obvious, most people skip this step and just go with the first company they find. We can't stress enough how crucial it is to do your due diligence when looking for a trustable roofing company to install your roof.

• Ask your neighbors if they have any experience working with roofing companies and if they can recommend any you should work with or even avoid.
• Browse Google to learn more about the roofing industry, best practices, materials, costs, what to look out for and what a good vs. bad experience looks like. Try searching terms such as "How to know if I need a new roof?", "How much does a roof repair cost?", "Do I need a roof repair or installation?", or "How does the roofing process work?".
• Call around and speak to companies to get a feel for the industry and gauge what good customer service sounds like.
• Read online resources like this one. Browsing our website and blog could end up saving you numerous hours and thousands of dollars spent with careless, untrustworthy contractors. We even suggest reading other companies' blogs as well to gain more insight into the industry and avoid biases.

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Get An Inspection and Quote

Many companies offer free inspections and quotes so we recommend taking advantage of this as it can give you an idea of what work you need done and what it should likely cost. One thing to keep in mind is that many companies offer estimates which, unlike quotes, are likely to change. (More on this in point #6).

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Shop Around

While it can be tempting to go with the first roofing company you talk to, trust us when we say it's worth the extra time looking around to find the best option. Give a few different companies a call and ask them each the same questions to see how they answer. Once you find a company you can trust and you think you want to go with, get a few opinions before you make the final decision. You do not want to shortcut this step. You'll thank us later!

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Book a Date For Your Roof to be Fixed!

Now that you've done all your research, got your free inspections and quotes, and shopped around it's time to book a date and time for your ins

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Step #2 - How to Access Your Roof For Damage

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Look for the following signs to determine if you need your roof fixed:

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Ceiling or Wall Stains

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Attic Leaks

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Peeling or Curling Shingles

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Blistering or Peeling Paint

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Step #3 - How to Choose the Right Roofing Company

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Research

Since you're reading this then you're already on the right path. Make yourself familiar with the process of getting a new roof and what a good experience vs. a bad experience looks like!

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Reviews

Check out companies on Google to see what others are saying about them to give you an idea of what you should expect and whether or not they are a good choice for your project.

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Certifications

If a roofing manufacturer or associated professional trusts a company, then it's likely you can too. However, while certifications are great, be sure to weigh other criteria such as customer service and customer satisfaction as well as these are just as, if not more important!

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Ask Around

Be sure to ask your friends about their experiences and if they have any recommendations. You already trust them after all!

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Most importantly, please do not go with a roofing company if you are uncomfortable. There are many roofing companies around, some of which will attempt to take advantage of you while others will make it a simple and pain free experience. Do your research!

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Step #4 - Questions to Ask Roofing Companies

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Below are a few questions that are great to ask roofing companies when shopping around:

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• How long have you been in business?
• Do you have any certifications?
• Do you offer quotes or estimates?
• Do you offer any manufacturer or workmanship warranties?
• Can you provide any references?
• Are you properly licensed and insured?

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Step #5 - Commonly Used Roofing Materials

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Asphalt shingle roofs are the most common roofs you'll see today and are primarily made up of asphalt and other roofing components. Here are the different types:

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3 Tab

These single layer shingles offer a uniform, flat appearance, and are made up of fibreglass coated with asphalt.

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Architectural

These shingles are created using multiple layers of asphalt-coated fibreglass that are laminated together. With a different cut than the 3 tab shingle, these have a unique and 3D appearance.

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Designer

These shingles are created similar to other asphalt shingles, however, they come in various colours and are designed to mimic the look of cedar, slate, and wood shake shingles.

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Step #6 - Quotes vs. Estimates

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Estimates

Estimates are essentially educated guesses providing you with a ballpark range for the cost of the installation of your new roof. They are subject to change and often times do, leaving you with a more expensive bill after your installation.

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Quotes

Unlike estimates, quotes are precise, and are not subject to change. Contractors typically have to pay to use special software to ensure quote accuracy as well.

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Step #7 - Warranties

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10 Year Workmanship Warranty

This warranty covers the full cost to repair any work related mistakes that a roofing company may make.

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50 Year Manufacturer Warranty

This warranty covers manufacturer defects and deterioration on single, detached homes.

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40 Year Manufacturer Warranty

This warranty covers manufacturer defects and deterioration on townhomes, condos, and commercial buildings.

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Congratulations!

You're now prepared to begin the process of looking for a company to help you with your new roof! If you have any more questions be sure to browse through our site and blog as we make sure to cover all essential roofing information within these resources. Otherwise you may also give us a shout anytime and we'd be glad to help answer any questions you may have.

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Want to view this article in PDF Format? Download 7 things you need to know before getting your roof fixed (to save you time and money) in PDF here.