Getting a new roof is generally a worthwhile investment that gives your home the adequate protection it needs. What's more, according to the National Association of Realtors, the average homeowner recovers nearly 110% of the new roof's cost in improved equity. However, this is only the case if you choose a reputable and experienced roofing company. It's important that your new roof is properly installed so you can get the most out of your investment. But, with so many options to choose from, it's easy to make mistakes when picking roofers. Here are the top mistakes to avoid that most properties make when selecting a roofing company.

Not Checking the Roofing Company's Reputation and Experience

When you invest in your new roof, it's important that you only deal with roofing companies that know what they are doing. Fortunately, it's not difficult to research companies these days. For starters, you can simply hop online and check the company's ratings on sites such as Facebook and Yelp. In addition, a roofing company should have a physical address or valid contact details, so you can reach out ask questions. For instance, you can ask the company for referrals and then follow up with their past clients to see what they have to say. The company should not only have a good reputation, but they should also have experience in installing the type of roof you have purchased.

Not Choosing a Local Roofing Company

A local roofing company is well versed with the installation codes and compliance requirements applicable to your area. They are also aware of any documentation that may be needed. The problem with not choosing a local company is that if you encounter a problem down the line, you may not have any idea where their physical office is, and chances are there won't be a local phone number you can contact.

Not Choosing a Licensed and Insured Roofing Company

When a roofing company is licensed, it shows that they are serious about their line of work. In addition, when a roofing contractor is fully licensed and insured, they will be more than happy to show you the paperwork. Keep in mind that licensing requirements vary from state to state, so do your homework to find out what's expected of local roofing companies. Also, be wary of choosing a company that's not insured. If something goes wrong, you may be held liable or fail to receive the compensation you deserve.

Not Asking for a Written Quote

When you're initially searching for the right roofing company to meet your needs, you may receive various estimates to help you reach a decision. However, once you have narrowed down your options, you should get a quote that is more accurate because it shows a set price. With an estimate, the contractor can charge you more, but once you accept their quote, then you only have to pay the agreed price unless the scope of the work changes. It's best to avoid verbal estimates or quotes, as you may need proof of the agreement down the line.

Not Asking for a Workmanship Warranty

Although your roof comes with its own warranty, it's important that you ask for a workmanship warranty. Even if you choose an experienced and reputable company, mistakes can still happen, and so you need a workmanship warranty to protect you. That means if anything goes wrong after the roof replacement, you can still contact the company to remedy the situation. Typically, a workmanship warranty covers various issues, such as leaks and installation errors. Make sure that you know exactly what the warranty covers and how long it applies. While it may not be realistic for the warranty to cover everything, you should be able to find a contractor that can offer reasonable coverage.

Going with the Cheapest Option

When you're getting a new roof installed and looking for quotes from various companies, it's typical to want to stick with your predetermined budget. However, if that budget is not practical or reasonable, you may end up choosing the cheapest option. The thing with cheap services is that they can end up being expensive as they often correlate with shoddy workmanship. It's better to pay the right and fair price for a new roof installation once and for all.

Forewarned is forearmed! Now that you know what mistakes to avoid, you can be sure to get the maximum ROI your roof can give. In a nutshell, it's best to go with a reputable, licensed, and insured contractor that can offer the best workmanship you deserve.