When getting estimates for roof replacement make sure you're comparing apples to apples. The best price is not always the best solution.
Multiple Estimates
When it comes to roof replacement, you might choose to get multiple estimates from several roofing companies so that you can compare contractors and the packages they offer. Your insurance company may ask that you get 3 estimates or suggest a roofing company. This is NOT a requirement.
Insurance companies cannot require you to get a certain number of estimates. Keep in mind that the insurance company will pay your area’s best roofer the EXACT SAME AMOUNT as it pays for the worst.
The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) regulates the insurance industry in the State of Texas and works to protect consumers and that laws regarding insurance are executed. According to Section 29 of the TDI Consumer Bill of Rights, "you have the right to
have your home repaired by the repair person of your choice."
Keep in mind, low estimates may indicate cutting corners to reduce the cost that can mean big problems down the road including leaks, mold, and ventilation issues.
When comparing estimates, it is important to remember that cutting corners on a large project such as roof replacement can lead to detrimental problems down the road. Hire a contractor that will help you fight for what you need when it comes to insurance claims and not just "make it work" for the price the insurance has agreed to.
Do you know the professional practices that should be followed for installation and documentation needed for insurance claims? Find out more in our guide to Asphalt Shingle Roof Replacement.
Cutting Costs Can Hurt
Taking the cheap route will end up costing you much more in the end than paying for solid workmanship and good materials. A bad contractor and questionable materials means the finished product will be a roof with problems down the road.
Just a few reasons that roofs can fail related to bad workmanship and poor materials:
Gaps in Roof Flashing
Flashings are the strips of metal that are placed along the front edge, corners and ridges of your roof and around your chimney and skylights. They are meant to create a watertight seal. If the flashing is installed properly it can start to pull away from your roofing material and lead to water leaks.
Bad seams
In any roof system, regardless of material, improper workmanship in sealing seams is the most common reason for failure of new roof systems. Seams are usually the weakest point of any portion of a roof and if both faces of the seam aren't sealed at once, the seam will be defective.
Trapped moisture
Moisture can damage the wood materials used in the structure of your home’s rooftop. High humidity levels may not only damage roof decking but also roofing shingles. When shingles become damaged or worn, strong wind gusts can lift loose shingles and tear them off the roof.
Moisture trapped in an attic or crawl space can lead to mold forming. Both mold and moisture weaken plywood roof sheathing, eventually causing the layers of the plywood to separate. If the problem is so severe that the sheathing needs to be replaced, then the roofing shingles must be removed and replaced as well.
Selz Contracting will unapologetically not be the lowest bid you receive. What you will get is a fair price, proper documentation/photographs that are crucial for insurance claims, expert construction quality that adheres to professional practices, and peace of mind that the job is done right.
At Selz Contracting, we provide exceptional customer service, unsurpassed construction quality, and state of the art equipment to ensure you receive the highest quality services and peace of mind.