When you are living in an area as large as Chicago, it can be difficult to find a contractor that you know is reliable. Before you start typing into that search engine, there are somethings that you need to know about finding a contractor.
You will also need to understand what makes your flat roof different from other roofs. So, let’s start there. Let’s explore your roof. Then talk about the repairs you may need.
Finally we will discuss what you need to look for in a contractor. Once we tie it all together, you will easily be able to find the perfect supplier for your needs.
Flat Roof repairs Chicago – How are they different?
image via: at-ease
Flat roofs are the type of roofing that you usually see on commercial buildings. Rather than coming up to a point, they are low and have no point. They are called flat, but in reality they simply have a low grade slope.
It may look like there isn’t a slope at all. They do have their benefits, like being able to hold solar panels, but they do have their own set of problems as well.
What are the common problems with flat roofs?
As with any roof option, you will need to make sure that you have your roof regularly inspected. It is common for them to have drainage problems. Without proper drainage, water will pool and cause weak spots in the decking.
Often, the cause of the blockage is easy to prevent. It is usually caused by birds nesting, other animals bringing grass and twigs up, or overhead trees shedding leaves. Extreme weather can also cause cracks and fissures in the roof as well.
Ways to find a contractor to fix your flat roof problems
The best way to find a contractor is to start by asking people for recommendations. You can find out a lot by talking to your neighbours, friends, and relatives.
Some contractors will have a reference sheet that will provide you with past customers. Their social media pages will help you to learn more as well.
You will find that there are pages dedicated to providing reliable references based on experience with the company. You may also be able to contact the city or county that you live in and ask for recommendations for a contractor in your area.
Three questions to ask when you are checking references are:
- Do you feel as though you got the best roof for the price that they gave you?
- Were you comfortable with the entire crew from start to finish?
- Do you feel as though you were roof was given the priority it should?
These questions will help you to decide how you feel about a flat roof contractor and their employees.
- Are you licensed in my county to make flat roof repairs?
This is important because they will need to know the country codes so that your roof meets inspections. They will need a license to pull permits. It also proves that they are not new to your area.
- Are you insured?
Unfortunately, there are some things that you cannot prepare for. Accidents happen. You want to be sure that your contractor can handle anything that happens to one of their employees or due to one of their employees.
- How do you choose your team?
This is to ensure that they properly screen their employees to ensure that safety is the first priority.
- How long have you been in business?
Experience can make all the difference. You want to ensure that they know what they are doing and what problems could arise. It doesn’t really matter if they come to fix your flat roof, or to rebuild your chimney, you want an experience crew.
- How is the budget decided?
You want your estimate to be fair. You also want to make sure that there is room in the budget should something go wrong.
- What are the common problems that arise that could affect the budget?
Make sure that you know where your money is going and make sure that your contractor is planning for all possible outcomes.
- How often is the budget negatively impacted?
If you find that they are often rising the price or their estimated proposals are off, then you may want to find another contractor. Some contractors will bid the job low only to rise it later. They want to get the job.
- What is the estimated timeline?
You want to know how long the job will take.
- What conditions might extend this timeline?
You want to be prepared should the job take longer than it should.
- How are you compensated should there be a difference in time or money?
You want to ensure that you will get money back that is over paid. You want to know that if damage is caused due to their inability to repair your roof that you will be compensated.’
Contractors to Avoid and Why
There are some contractors that you definitely want to avoid. These are often storm chasers or fair-weather contractors. You will notice that during times of year where the weather is most likely to cause roof damage, contractors will pop up.
Usually they will come in and bid lower than the local contractors. They will rush through the job. You will then not be able to contact them should there be a problem.
They tend to use poor quality materials, cheap labor, and will not meet the county standards. They bid lower because they don’t pull permits or meet quality requirements.
You certainly want to avoid these types of contractors because it will cause you money in the long run.
So, now you know all there is to know about flat roof repair Chicago. It is a good idea to find the best of the best when looking for a contractor because they will give you a quality roof at an amazing price.
Quality counts when it comes to your roof. It means less maintenance, fewer repairs, and the longest life. It will also mean great curb appeal. Your building is only as good as your roof. So make it the best you can.
