If your roof has sustained any recent hail damage due to spring storms, you’ll likely need to invest in a new one for your home. A new roof is an important investment to make for your home.

Some things you’ll need to consider is when selecting roofing materials are:

• Your roof needs to look attractive by coordinating with your home’s colors and other building materials like stone, masonry or siding.
• It needs to improve your home’s curb appeal – and resale value, if you’re planning to sell your home.
• It needs to be leak-free, fire-safe, wind-resistant and durable to last at least 20 years.

However, before you even start shopping for roofing materials, it’s vital to find a qualified contractor to install your roof. A contractor can help you make the right decisions about the materials to choose as well as how well they’ll complement your home’s architectural style. Not only can a contractor make sure your new roof meets your requirements, but he/she can also ensure they meet your local building codes.

Here are seven things you should consider when searching for a professional roofing contractor:

1. Get referrals. Ask family, friends and co-workers to recommend contractors they have used. Make sure they were happy with the contractor’s job performance.
2. Research potential contractors. Visit their website. Verify their business address, phone number and email. Make sure they’re insured and licensed. Ask for them for 3 to 5 customer references and talk to these individuals to get a thorough understanding about how the contractor does business. Contact your local Better Business Bureau and chamber of commerce to see if they have any reported complaints.
3. Meet with prospective contractors. Have your short list of contractors visit your home to discuss your roofing job – what types of materials are best; what work will be done; how much time will it take; and how many workers will be required to complete the job. Assess whether the contractor is professional and knowledgeable. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
4. Get multiple, comparable bids. These bids should look professional, be received within a timely manner, and include detailed information about your roofing project.
5. You get what you pay for. Your roof is an investment, so don’t select the cheapest bid in order to save some money. Amortize the replacement cost over the lifetime of the roof.
6. Get everything in writing. Before your selected contractor does any work, get a signed contract that outlines everything about the job including the type of materials to be used, safety procedures, liability, when the work will begin and end, clean-up methods, payment amounts, the product warranty, and a workmanship guarantee.
7. Ensure permits are in place. Call your local building department to find out what your contractor needs to start your job. Make sure any permits or bonds are completed before work begins.

If you need to get a new roof installed and require a home improvement loan to cover the cost, the mortgage specialists at Grandview Lending can help you find the right loan for your needs. Contact us today.