Six Ways to Track Down a Metal Roofer

A metal roofer is a roofing contractor who specializes in metallic materials such as aluminum, steel and copper. He or she may also deal in other materials but must have experience with metal to do the job correctly. A house’s roof is one of the most integral parts of a housing structure. If it’s leaking or not built correctly, the entire dwelling beneath it can be compromised. The ceiling, drywall, wallboard, beams, frame, flooring and furnishings can be damaged after a heavy rainstorm. The home’s electrical systems can be shorted out, causing fires as well as expensive repairs. Want to find a competent metal roofer? Here are 6 ways to locate one:

1) Word-of-mouth referrals: One of the best ways to find a savvy contractor is by asking others who’ve had metal roofs installed. Look around your neighborhood’s roofs. When you see some that are well done, ask your neighbor who installed it and what his or her experience was with the contractor. Ask how long the job took, if the product has held up over time and whether they’d hire the same roofer again. 

2) Board of Contractors: Checking with the Board of Contractors to make sure a roofing company is licensed and in good standing is important. Finding a licensed and insured contractor is also good way to check into their track record.

3) Roofing materials supply store: Going to the local building supply store that specializes in metal, shingles, tile and wood for rooftops is a good way to get some business cards of individuals who are in this line of work. Asking the shop clerks who they’d have install their own structures at home is a smart way of getting a behind-the-scenes bit of information. 

4) BBB: Contacting the Better Business Bureau will be wise to see if there are any complaints lodged against the contractor and whether he or she is in good standing.

5) Online advertisements: Finding a company to install your metallic structure is another way of locating a contractor. Many companies have extensive websites with stats about their services, products, how long they’ve been in business and what to expect during the process.

6) Handyman Hotline: Many handymen resources have lists of contractors who specialize in various construction areas including roofing. After getting a list of names, you’ll need to interview each one to obtain estimates as well as a feel for who will be the right person for the job.

When seeking out a metal roofer, a homeowner should compile a list of potential contractors. After settling on at least 3 possibilities, have them come out and take a look. The prospective contractor should arrive promptly at the estimation appointment with a ladder, calculator and tablet of paper to take down the specifications. An especially savvy contractor will also have a list of references as well as some samples of the materials. It’s important to get all estimates in writing and then to make a comparison. After all this research, it will become apparent of who the best person or company is for the job.