Friday, June 8, 2007

Put a lid on it.....

We've put it off as long as we could. We knew when we bought this house four years ago that we needed a new roof. I mean, it's not one of the most satisfying purchases you'll make, right? You don't enjoy endless hours sitting on your ROOF! But, we finally bit the bullet and started to get estimates. One contractor won, hands down.

Our neighbors across the street recently had their roof replaced and the contractor did an amazing job. The job site was neat as a pin at the end of each work day, the job was completed quickly and there wasn't a lot of racket. We obtained three other quotes from contractors whose signs I had seen numerous times in front of homes in Tarpon Springs. Out of the 5 contractors I called, yes - ONLY THREE EVEN SHOWED UP FOR THE QUOTE! Two of the estimates were on what seemed to be pieces of scrap paper. The third, Augusto Roofing (www.augustoroofing.com) gave us the most detailed, comprehensive and professional quote ever.

So what should you look for in a roofing contractor? Make sure your quote outlines the work they are responsible for completing. What are they going to provide? Will they be pulling a permit for you, or do you have to obtain the permit yourself? What about damage to plants and grass? How will they be laying out the roof shingles (our quote included a diagram). What materials will they be using and how are those materials rated? What debris will be left at the job site at the completion of the project (answer = NONE!). Do they provide a warranty on their work in addition to the manufacturer's warranty?

It's important to get several quotes for your project, especially during the busy hurricane season when everyone (us) decides they should replace that roof. Also, contact your insurance company once the job has been completed and see if you qualify for any discount in your premium.

Happy Friday!

No comments:

Landmark Real Estate Specialists

Landmark Real Estate Specialists
Make a LANDMARK decision!