Importance of Asking Questions and Being Informed
When it comes to something as critical as your home’s roof, you can’t afford to make a hasty decision. Hiring the right roofing company is essential to ensuring the job is done properly, efficiently, and with the highest level of craftsmanship. By asking the right questions upfront, you can gain valuable insights into a contractor’s qualifications, expertise, and commitment to customer satisfaction.
Taking the time to thoroughly vet potential roofing companies will give you peace of mind knowing your investment is in good hands. Remember, your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements – it’s not a decision to be made lightly. In this article, we’ll explore eight key questions you should ask before hiring a roofing contractor to work on your property.
1. How long have you been in business?
Experience is crucial when it comes to roofing. An established company with a long history of successful projects is far more likely to deliver quality workmanship and stand behind their work. Look for a roofing contractor that has been serving the local community for at least 5-10 years. This demonstrates their longevity, expertise, and commitment to their craft.
Newer companies may offer lower prices, but they often lack the institutional knowledge and proven track record of more seasoned roofers. Hiring an inexperienced contractor could lead to subpar results, extended timelines, and headaches in the future. It’s worth paying a bit more to work with a company that has weathered the test of time.
At Silverline Roofing, we’ve been proudly serving Edmonton and the surrounding areas since 2012. With over 20 years of industry experience, our family-owned business is built on trust, quality craftsmanship, and a commitment to customer satisfaction.
2. Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Proper licensing, bonding, and insurance are non-negotiable when hiring a roofing company. A reputable contractor should be able to provide you with documentation proving they meet all the necessary legal and financial requirements to operate in your area.
Licensed roofers have demonstrated their competence and adherence to local building codes. Bonding protects you from financial liability if the contractor fails to complete the job or pay their suppliers and subcontractors. And comprehensive insurance coverage – including liability and workers’ compensation – safeguards you from being held responsible for accidents or damage to your property.
Avoid any roofers who cannot provide proof of these essential credentials. Hiring an unlicensed, uninsured contractor could leave you vulnerable to significant legal and financial risks.
At Silverline Roofing, we are proud members of the Alberta Allied Roofing Association (AARA) and the Alberta Construction Safety Association. We are also COR-certified and BBB-accredited with an A+ rating. These certifications and partnerships reflect our commitment to safety, quality, and professionalism—giving you peace of mind throughout your roofing project.
3. What types of roofing materials do you specialize in?
Different roofing materials require distinct skill sets and installation techniques. A good roofing company will have extensive experience working with various roofing systems, from asphalt shingles and metal to tile, slate, and flat roofing.
Ask the contractor about the materials they commonly install and any specialized training or certifications their team has earned. This will give you a sense of their expertise and ability to handle the unique requirements of your roof type.
Be wary of roofers who only work with one or two materials, as they may not be equipped to provide the best solutions for your home. The most qualified contractors will be able to discuss the pros and cons of various roofing options and help you select the system that best fits your needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences.
At Silverline Roofing, we specialize in a wide range of roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and flat roofing systems, ensuring we can provide the best solution tailored to your specific needs.
4. Can you provide references from past clients?
Checking references is a crucial step in vetting any roofing company. Reach out to the contractor’s previous customers to get firsthand accounts of their experience. Inquire about the quality of the work, project timeline, communication, and overall satisfaction.
A reputable roofing company should be more than willing to provide you with a list of references. If they seem reluctant or are unable to provide any client references, it’s a red flag. Satisfied customers are the best indicator of a contractor’s reliability and commitment to excellence.
Take the time to thoroughly vet the references provided. Don’t just ask surface-level questions – dig deeper to uncover any potential issues or concerns that may not be obvious. A little due diligence can save you from making a costly mistake.
At Silverline Roofing, we take pride in our strong track record of customer satisfaction. Our clients have consistently praised our punctuality, efficiency, and responsiveness. For instance, Martha K. shared, “Silverline guys were on time & very quick with doing the job. Any questions I had were quickly addressed & dealt with. This company is a pleasure to work with.” Similarly, Muhammad R. noted, “The team did an amazing job, we’re really happy with the wonderful service they provide, great quality and awesome customer service, highly recommended if anyone is looking for roofing.”
We are more than willing to provide additional references upon request, demonstrating our commitment to excellence and reliability.
5. What warranties or guarantees do you offer on your work?
Roofing is a significant investment, so you’ll want to ensure the work is protected by robust warranties and guarantees. A trustworthy roofing company should stand behind their craftsmanship and provide comprehensive coverage on the materials and labor.
At a minimum, look for a contractor that offers a warranty of at least 10-15 years on the roof system itself. They should also be willing to guarantee their workmanship for a similar timeframe. Some companies may even provide additional coverage, such as lifetime warranties on certain roofing components.
Pay close attention to the fine print and understand exactly what is and isn’t covered under the warranty. A company that is transparent about their warranty terms and stands by their work is a good sign that they take pride in the quality of their installations.
At Silverline Roofing, we stand behind our work with a 5-year labour warranty and a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee, ensuring your investment is well protected.
6. How do you handle project timelines and communication?
Roofing projects can be disruptive to your daily life, so it’s important to work with a contractor who is committed to keeping the process as smooth and efficient as possible. Ask about their typical project timelines and how they communicate with clients throughout the job.
A reputable roofing company should be able to provide you with a detailed timeline upfront and do their best to adhere to it. They should also have a clear plan for minimizing disruptions to your home and daily routine.
Effective communication is key. Your roofer should be readily available to answer your questions, address any concerns, and provide regular updates on the status of the work. Look for a contractor who is responsive, transparent, and committed to keeping you informed every step of the way.
At Silverline Roofing, we prioritize clear communication and efficient project management to ensure a seamless experience for our clients. We provide detailed timelines and maintain open lines of communication throughout the project, keeping you informed at every stage. Our commitment to transparency and responsiveness ensures that your roofing project is completed on schedule, with minimal disruption to your daily life.
7. What safety precautions do you take on the job site?
Roofing work can be inherently dangerous, so the contractor you hire must prioritize the safety of their crew and your property. Ask about the safety measures they have in place, such as fall protection equipment, debris containment systems, and worker training programs.
A reputable roofing company should have a comprehensive safety plan and be able to demonstrate their commitment to protecting their employees and your home. This may include things like:
- Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) for workers
- Secure roof access and fall prevention systems
- Tarps and netting to catch falling debris
- Strict job site cleanliness and material storage protocols
Safety should be a top concern for any roofing contractor you consider. Cutting corners in this area could lead to serious injuries, property damage, and legal liabilities.
At Silverline Roofing, we prioritize safety by adhering to strict protocols, including the use of proper personal protective equipment (PPE), secure roof access systems, and maintaining clean job sites to protect both our crew and your property.
8. Do you have any financing options available?
Roofing projects can be a significant financial investment, so it’s important to understand the payment options a contractor offers. Many reputable roofing companies provide flexible financing solutions to help make the project more manageable for homeowners.
Ask the contractor about any in-house financing programs, partnerships with third-party lenders, or special promotional offers they have available. This can include options like:
- Low-interest loans
- Monthly payment plans
- Same-as-cash deferred payment programs
Knowing upfront what financing is available can help you budget for the project and ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. Be wary of any roofers who only accept full payment upfront or don’t offer any flexible payment plans.
At Silverline Roofing, we understand that roofing projects are a significant investment, and we’re committed to working with homeowners to find solutions that fit their budgets. Contact us today to discuss flexible payment options and create a plan that works for you.
Protect Your Edmonton Home—Call Silverline Roofing Today!
Choosing the right roofing company is one of the most important decisions you can make for your home. By asking these questions, you’ll feel confident hiring a contractor with the skills, reputation, and reliability to get the job done right.
At Silverline Roofing, we specialize in helping Edmonton homeowners protect their properties from harsh winters, hailstorms, and summer heat. Our licensed and insured team is ready to handle everything from repairs to full roof replacements—always delivering exceptional workmanship and unbeatable customer service.
Don’t wait until small roofing issues turn into big problems! Contact Silverline Roofing today to schedule your FREE consultation and discover why we’re Edmonton’s trusted roofing experts.