Virtually all new roof installations look great the day after crews depart. Sometimes, however, those many layers of crisp new shingles mask underlying deficiencies that may eventually shorten a roof’s lifespan. Unfortunately, not all residential roofing companies in NJ perform at the same high level.
How to Identify Low-Quality Roofing Services
Sometimes, inexperienced or undisciplined crews rush through a project. They might drive nails the wrong way or in the wrong places. They might misapply flashing, or they might fail to use roofing sealant everywhere it’s needed.
Home improvement contractors, including roofers, vigorously compete for business. Unfortunately, roofing companies sometimes cut corners in a misguided attempt to submit more competitive bids. Others cut corners to pad profits.
To reduce a bid or increase their profit, they might:
- Install substandard materials
Since roofing is so materials-intensive, less reputable roofers sometimes increase profits by using cheaper materials. For example, they might use the type of asphalt shingles agreed to, but they might go with lower-quality felt or sheathing. - Use inexperienced workers
Since roofing is a competitive business, some contractors less experienced workers to reduce labor costs. The most dedicated, capable roofing technicians tend to gravitate to the successful companies that offer steady work and good pay. It is ideal when a roofing contractor has a long-term relationship with great crews that regularly install everything up to specifications. - Ignore safety training
A homeowner usually feels most secure when the people on the roof are trained according to OSHA roof safety standards. A homeowner also feels better when a roofing company maintains way more liability insurance than the state minimum. No homeowner wants to worry that a serious accident could conceivably lead to a major claim against their homeowner’s policy. - Fail to stand behind their work
Unfortunately, there are various home improvement contractors, including roofers, that fail to stand behind their work. A new roof is a multi-decade investment, and you want to know that your roofing contractor will be there for you when necessary, whether it’s to perform routine maintenance or emergency repairs following a bad storm.
Ideally, you want to find a roofing contractor that built up a solid, local reputation for years and years. A long-term relationship with a reputable roofer delivers real peace of mind.
Vetting Residential Roofing Companies in NJ
When vetting roofing contractors, a northern NJ homeowner should also look at the following issues.
Customer-centered vs. self-centered
As you solicit bids for your roofing project, try to get a sense of who really puts the interests of their customers first. The best roofing contractors in NJ achieve their success by providing exemplary customer service. Fair bids, transparency and empathy for the customer go a long way to building goodwill that generates referrals.
Experienced vs. inexperienced
Experience is so valuable in the roofing business because no two roofs are alike. New Jersey residents live in homes representing radically different architectural traditions, like Colonial, Georgian, Cape Cod and Italianate. Dormers the frequently accompany Tudor, Victorian and other styles require more detail work during a roof replacement. Roof pitches also vary a great deal. Experienced crews know how to efficiently and safely tackle steep roofs.
Therefore, you want to work with an experienced roofer who has “seen it all” over the years. Roofing contractors encounter many different challenges, some of which require creative applications of shingles, flashing, felt and sealant to prevent water intrusion long-term.
Local vs. out-of-state
Since you’ll want to rely on your roofer for long-term maintenance, it’s more comforting to work with an NJ company that’s deeply rooted in the communities where you live, work and play.
Consider residential roofing companies in NJ that your neighbors, co-workers and friends have worked with over the years. As you drive around town, you’re more likely to see the work trucks featuring the logos of active, local roofing companies.
Certified vs. non-certified
The major roofing manufacturers maintain their own certification programs. For example, GAF has its Master Elite program, while Owens Corning has its Preferred program. Tamko Pro is the name of yet another factory certification program.
Contractors are only factory-certified when they meet and maintain a series of stringent requirements. These big companies only want to certify roofers who know what they are doing, because they stake their reputations on roof installations performing up to spec. For example, GAF only grants Master Elite status to about three percent of America’s roofing contractors.
Solid warranties vs. questionable ones
You’ll find that the best warranties are typically offered by northern NJ contractors who are factory-certified by one or more roofing manufacturers. There are two kinds of warranties, those backed by the manufacturers and those backed by the roofing contractors themselves. NJ homeowners usually want the sense of security that comes with warranties backed by well-established manufacturers.
For example, GAF has been in business since the 19th century. Over the years, it has grown to become the largest roofing manufacturer in North America. Finally, many Tri-state homeowners like the idea of having their roof systems backed by an industry that is close by. GAF is headquartered in Parsippany, NJ.
Contact CRS for Further Assistance
Since 1977, CRS has built a reputation for quality craftsmanship and responsive customer service. CRS is one of the residential roofing companies in NJ you can trust, just like major roofing manufacturers do. We are factory-certified by industry leaders like GAF, Owens Corning and Tamko. CRS maintains more than ten times the amount of insurance that some roofers do.
We stand ready to address your every roofing need, from inspections and routine maintenance to emergency repairs and complete roof replacements. Please contact us today to ask your questions, or to arrange for a visit with our certified roof instructor.
