Understanding Roofing Malpractices
Every homeowner wants a sturdy roof over their head, but not all roofing contractors have the best intentions. Some take shortcuts, use subpar materials, or mislead clients to increase their profits. In this guide, we’ll provide essential tips to ensure you choose a trustworthy roofing company. Knowledge is power, and we’re here to equip you with the information you need to make informed decisions for your home’s safety and longevity.
Common Shortcut Tactics in the Roofing Industry
Some roofers want to make quick money. To do this, they might:
- Use old materials again instead of new ones. This includes metal sheets, ventilation parts, chimney covers, and more.
- Ignore problems like bad wood under the shingles. They might just put new shingles over the old problems.
- Offer warranties that don’t really help if something goes wrong.
- Use cheap or old materials that don’t last long. You can read more about the quality of different roofing materials on Consumer Reports, NRCA, Roofing Contractor, etc.
- They might not get the right permissions for the job. Understand the importance and process of getting proper permits from your local government or building department website.
- Sometimes, dishonest roofers might show fake credentials or references to trick people.
- They might not know much about different roofing materials. This can lead to bad recommendations.
- They might not check your roof properly before starting work.
Choosing a Reliable Roofing Contractor
When seeking a roofing company, it can be beneficial to understand what distinguishes a trustworthy contractor from the rest. One of the most effective ways to do this is by examining real-life examples and case studies.
Touchstone Roofing LLC: A Case Study
Let’s take Touchstone Roofing as an example of what homeowners should consider:
- Industry Recognitions: Touchstone Roofing has certifications from prominent roofing organizations, indicating they adhere to high standards. For instance, certifications from the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) can be a good sign of professionalism and expertise.
- Awards and Accolades: Their commitment to quality and the community has earned them various awards and certifications, such as:
- Awards, especially from recognized entities like GAF, indicate a company’s dedication to excellence.
- Memberships: Touchstone Roofing is a member of several roofing associations, like the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCA) and North Texas Roofing Contractors Association (NTRCA). Associations often have a code of ethics or standards that members must follow, adding another layer of trust.
- BBB and Local Chamber Affiliations: An excellent rating from the Better Business Bureau and memberships in local chambers of commerce like the Frisco Chamber of Commerce show a deep-rooted community trust and ethical business practices.
- Customer Feedback: A 5-Star Rating on Google Reviews indicates consistent customer satisfaction, making it a reliable metric to consider.
While Touchstone Roofing stands out in many of these areas, it’s crucial for homeowners to evaluate any potential roofing contractor based on these aspects for a successful roofing project.