It’s not easy to hire a contractor. A great home is worthless without the right roof above it, but you can’t find the right roof without the right contractor. Use the advice in this article to help you notice good qualities of a contractor. When using the best tools and materials, you can make a decent roof into a great one.

Be sure to ask many questions of your roofer before hiring him. One important question to ask is the quantity of nails they will put in each shingle. Typically, you would want more than three. Test them to get the right answers. If you don’t get the right answers, walk away.

Co-workers, friends, and family should be the first resources for picking a contractor. Find out whether he used good quality materials, did the work at a good price, and whether they were pleased overall with the job he did. Ask as many questions as you can to get the best possible repair for your money.

Always research contractors you are considering. Never hire the first one listed in the yellow pages or the one with the lowest rates. Try researching various local roofers. You can check them out online, ask people that have previously used them, or find a service that will help find workers you can trust.

When you pick a roofer, make sure they carry liability insurance. For starters, if a roofer has this type of insurance, you can be pretty sure that they are reliable. Also, if damage occurs to the roof while they work, their insurance pays the cost.

Insurance coverage is essential when it comes to roofing. If you work with an uninsured contractor and something is damaged, you’ll be the one responsible for the cost. You shouldn’t simply ask the contractor if he has insurance and take his word on it. Instead, request proof of insurance so that you can see for yourself whether they have current insurance.

Contractors who have their own workers are often a more inexpensive option than those who work alone. Several roofers can get things done faster, which may also lower the cost. If you do hire a solo roofer, make sure you aren’t paying an outrageous cost for labor.

The age of your roof is the main factor in determining whether you should replace it or not. A lot of roofs will only last about twenty years before needing to be replaced. If you have a roof that was put in over an old one you need to have it replaced after twenty years no matter what.

Get references for any roofing company you may hire. An honest company will be happy to provide you with references. If a company tries to skate by this request, look elsewhere. This usually indicates a problem with the company.

Locating the exact spot where a roof is leaking can take a little time. Have another person inside the home and carefully use a hose to find the location of the leak. If your home is large, communicate with cell phones to prevent unnecessary large amounts of water from getting into your home.

How long has the contractor been in business? Contractors who have a long work history are more likely to provide excellent service. Any new roofer on the scene may actually just be a scammer hoping to take your dollar.

When hiring a roofer, do not overlook the little things. Do they call you back promptly? Do they show up on time? Also, professional contractors usually provide you with a typed bid for the job. Your roofer should hold both qualities.

The roof of your home protects you from the hot sun, rain, and cold air. But, these elements can cause damage and your roof will need repairs. This article can help you learn all about roofing so that your repairs are done right.