Lowering Your Total Roof Cost
Having a new roof fitted or paying for repairs can sometimes lead to high roof costs, but there are ways to ensure that your roof cost does not become astronomical. The first thing to remember is that with materials you usually have to pay for better quality but by adding that little extra to your overall roof cost you could be saving money in the long run. Using lower grades of materials may bring down the roof cost you are quoted but it is not sound economy in the long run.
Research
The reason you are hiring a professional roof contractor is because you want a professional job done, but you should also have a reasonable working knowledge of the project you want completed. Ensure that you do your own research. Find out as much as you can about the procedures involved and the best materials to use. A professional roof contractor may have more idea of new materials and technologies that can be used to finish your job but a little knowledge goes a long way when it comes to judging the merits of the roof cost you are given.
A Clear and Concise Request
Once you've done your research you'll have a better picture of exactly what is required from the roofing contractor. You should write down everything you have found out and everything you require. Make sure that all companies have this information otherwise the roof costs that these companies give you may differ considerably. Less contingency is required by a roofing contractor who is given full instructions so if possible you should find out as much as you can about the roof you already have. Point out any damage that you know of but be aware that there are sometimes nasty surprises waiting under any shingle. The more information you can give a contractor the better your final roof cost will be.
Shopping Around
This should really go without saying but to ensure that you are receiving the lowest roof cost you should shop around, but you would be surprised at quite how many people opt for the first quote they receive without even consulting another company. If you are using a company you have used before and were happy with their service then you may decide to skip this step confident that the roof cost you are quoted is a fair price.
By getting quotes off several companies you are giving yourself a number of advantages. You may be able to find out key information from several companies that you can use to your advantage and you will know that the price you accept is a fair price, even if it isn't the lowest. When you are comparing your quotes you must look beyond just the total roof cost and consider service, quality, materials and time taken to complete the job. It's a combination of these factors and the roof cost that will indicate the best deal.
October, 2005
-- Copyright 2005 Roofer 911.com. All Rights Reserved
by Steven Briesemeister. Reprinted courtesy of Roofer 911.com, roofing contractor serving Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, NY and northern Virginia.