When it's time to begin any form of home improvement project, you may have a number of questions about which company is right to hire to complete the work. It's important to take the time to ask these questions so you find the right person for the job and feel confident in your decision. With the large number of metal roofers in most major areas, it may seem like a daunting task to find a company that's right for your home. Here are five questions you should ask them to help narrow your decision.

1. Do You Have a License?

Never hire a contractor to work on your home without a legal license, regardless of how much money they say you'll save. Conducting unlicensed work on your roof isn’t only a safety issue, it can also affect your home insurance policy. A certification also lets you know that a roofer has the credentials to use the necessary materials and safety procedures while working on your home. Whenever your roof is in need of professional assistance, be sure to call upon a company that's fully licensed, insured, and bonded. This will ensure you're protected from covering the costs of any accidents or mistakes made during the repair process out-of-pocket.

2. Do You Have Referrals?

Referrals are helpful as they let you know what other clients think about the roofing contractor. If the roofer knows they've done good work and people are willing to vouch for that, they should have no issue supplying you with at least a few referrals. Even with referrals, you should check online reviews to see what people have to say. These can provide valuable insights into the company's level of professionalism, its communication style, as well as the potential cost of its services.

3. What Materials Do You Specialize In?

Different roofers may have different specialties. Shingles are a popular choice among contractors and homeowners. However, according to IIBEC (International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants), a strong enough wind force may cause asphalt tabs or shingles to break off and go downwind. It's a good idea to see if potential roofers specialize in stronger materials that can help withstand such high winds and other elements if you live in an area that's prone to these conditions. Schedule an estimate with metal roofers in your area to learn more about the materials they're able to work with and which one may be right for your home.

4. How Long Will the Project Take?

The time it takes for your roofer to finish the job can depend on the extent of damage to your roof and its size. For example, repairing a couple of cracks will have a completely different timeframe than doing a new installation. The estimate provided by the roofing company allows them to provide you with the most accurate assessment of the amount of time needed to complete the work. When scheduling these estimates, make sure the companies you're looking to hire offer warranties. These can protect you from additional costs should anything happen to your property.

5. How Long Can These Updates Last?

If you've never had a roof replacement, you may wonder how long it will last. According to Bob Vila, the typical roof can last about 20 years. However, you can expect the work of metal roofers to last for 50 to 70 years when it's properly maintained. So, if you want a new roof that can stand the test of time and may even outlive you, consider the benefits of installing a metal roof. Hire a roofing company that strives to be environmentally friendly so you can receive the help your home requires without negatively impacting your local environment.

These are just some of the main questions to ask a potential roofing contractor before they begin work on your home. After all, a roof needs to be strong and reliably installed, since it protects your home from wind, hail, rain, and other elements. If you want to feel safe that you've made the right decision, call Evergreen State Roofing today. Our team of experienced metal roofers can answer any and all questions you make have about the process so you can make the most informed decision possible.