When your roof is in bad shape, you need help from a professional – now! The problem is that though there are a lot of roofing contractors out there, they tend to have very different pricing structures.
Often a roofing company will charge you a fee just to come out to your house and take a look, before they even lift a finger to fix the problem. Add to that fee the actual cost of roof replacement or repair and the whole project starts getting awfully pricey.
That’s why smart homeowners prefer to save money on the initial estimate. Which leaves you with this question: “How do I find roofing contractors near me with free estimates?”
Getting multiple free estimates is the best way to check out current market prices. Make sure that each estimate covers the same services, materials, and warranty.
For example, a sample estimate might include:
Put yourself in the driver’s seat by comparing apples to apples. That’s how to ensure that you’ll end up paying a fair price for the roofing service you need.
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When you take a close look at roofing companies in South Dakota, they are really quite impressive. Not only do roofers handle roof repair or replacement, many offer a variety of related home improvement services as well.
Find out more about what these multi-talented contractors can do.
Call a roofing company ASAP if you see -- or even suspect -- a problem with your roof. A water leak, shingles blown off by last’s night’s storm or a metal roof battered by hail are all examples of obvious warning signals.
Additional signs of roof trouble might be more subtle, such as granules in the gutters (which indicate that your shingles are losing their protective coating), water staining of your attic ceiling, or a musty, moldy smell in the house.
Don’t ignore any of these red flags. The roof problem will only get worse if it’s not taken care of promptly.
Choosing among roofing businesses is complicated, but it’s easier if you know what to look for.
First of all, the popular Google search terms “roofing companies near me” or “roofing companies in my area” really do make a lot of sense. A local roofer will be able to get to you easier and faster, and has a reputation within your community to uphold.
Next, you’ll want to speak with nearby roofing contractors to compare their services and prices. Don’t make up your mind before having several pros check out your roof and provide detailed estimates.
Another point that may be a tiebreaker in your decision is finding roofing companies that finance the work. This will save you hassle, especially in the case of a roofing emergency, when time is of the essence in getting the repair done. It can also save you money, because contractor loans are generally backed by financial institutions which offer attractive rates.
“That windstorm we just had was pretty hard on my roof. I found granules in my gutters and a few shingles on the ground. I know I need roof repair as soon as possible, but I’m trying to find a roofing company near me that’s reliable, not just fast.”
If you find yourself in this type of situation, you might be feeling overwhelmed. Though Googling “roofing companies near me” turns up a list of names, you’d like more than that. You want answers but you’re not even sure of your questions.
Don’t worry. Just read this guide to getting reliable roof repair services.
Looking for local roofers is an excellent idea. Make sure they are licensed to work in your area. Request free estimates in writing from several roofing contractors, sending photos of the damage if feasible.
TIP: Stay safe. Do NOT climb up on a damaged roof to inspect the situation or to take pictures. Leave that for experienced professionals.
Your roofing contractor may help you in a number of ways, including:
Make sure all services are clearly specified in your repair estimate so you can compare what the different roofing contractors are offering in South Dakota.
Repair cost typically ranges between about $350 and $1,300.
Roofing labor costs are approximately $45 to $75 an hour. In addition, you will have to pay for materials and supplies.
Good news! Repair services may be covered by the homeowners insurance policy. Check your policy details for coverage and exclusions.
However, experts advise against making an insurance claim unless the repair will cost at least 3 times the amount of your deductible (for example, repairs costing $1,800 or more with a $600 insurance deductible).
It’s vital to contact your insurance company rep before beginning roof repair or signing a contract with a roofer. Have on hand your photos of the roof damage, a written description of what happened and receipts for any emergency expenses, such as temporary patching for a roof leak.
A roof replacement tends to be a pretty hefty expense. And it’s usually not optional; either your roof has been damaged beyond the point of repair or it’s simply come to the end of its useful life. If you’re not suffering from roof leaks now, you soon will be.
At this point, searching Google for “ a roofing company near me” is a top priority. However, to get quotes on a new roof and be in a position to compare them accurately, you’re going to need more information.
Arm yourself with the facts that follow.
Recent figures show that Americans generally spend somewhere between $5,300 and $10,500 for roof replacement, with the average cost about $7,800. Of course, the size of your home and kind of material asphalt shingles, wood shakes, aluminum, steel, copper, slate, etc.) will have an impact on pricing.
The cost to install a new roof usually works out according to this formula: 60 percent for labor costs and 40 percent for the actual roofing material. So if you shop around and price the type of roofing you want, you can calculate a rough ballpark figure for your roof replacement.
TIP: The total cost will be affected by factors such as:
You’re now an informed homeowner, ready to request professional estimates on your roof replacement. Be sure to get several estimates, each with an itemized cost breakdown, so that you can compare them knowledgeably and pick the best roof company for you.