Did you know that over 2.3 million roofs are replaced across the U.S. each year? Whether due to age, storm damage, or wear and tear, replacing your roof is one of the most important investments you’ll make in your home.
A well-installed roof doesn’t just protect against leaks and water damage. It can also boost your property value and drastically improve curb appeal. But here’s the catch: the quality of your new roof depends heavily on who you hire to install it.
Choosing the right roofing contractor isn’t just about price. It’s about trust, workmanship, and long-term peace of mind. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top tips for choosing a reliable roofing company, so you can feel confident in your decision and avoid costly mistakes.
Key Takeaways:
- Choose experience: Long-standing contractors are more likely to deliver quality, reliable work.
- Check licensing & insurance: Always confirm they’re properly insured and certified.
- Review past projects: Look for galleries or local examples similar to your home.
- Read real reviews: Focus on feedback about communication, clean-up, and results.
- Avoid red flags: Be wary of vague pricing, no online presence, or high-pressure tactics.
Choose a Company With Years of Experience
When it comes to roofing, experience matters. A company that’s been in business for 10, 20, even 100 years, has stood the test of time for a reason. They’ve handled a wide variety of roofing projects, dealt with unexpected issues, and refined their process over time.
Why does that matter to you?
- Fewer surprises: Experienced contractors know how to spot problems before they become expensive issues.
- Faster, more efficient installs: A seasoned crew works like a well-oiled machine, saving you time and stress.
- Higher quality workmanship: Years of hands-on expertise often translates to better long-term results.
Before hiring anyone, do your homework. Read recent customer reviews, especially those that mention:
- Similar roofing jobs (e.g., asphalt shingle, cedar shake, flat roofs)
- How the contractor handled delays or surprises
- Pricing transparency
- Customer service responsiveness
- Extra efforts that made a difference
Red flags to watch out for:
- No online presence or reviews
- Vague estimates with no written contracts
- High-pressure sales tactics
- Asking for full payment upfront
In short, choose a company with a solid track record, like O’Donnell Roofing, proudly serving Pennsylvania homeowners for nearly 100 years.
Look for a Variety of Services and Options
You want to select a roofing contractor that offers all the services you need. Do they specialize in residential roofing, commercial roofing, or both? Do they offer a variety of materials, such as asphalt shingles, cedar, metal, slate, etc.? Do they provide other services like general carpentry to avoid working with multiple contractors on a bigger project?
Before you select a roofing contractor, you want to make sure that their company provides all the options and flexibility that you need.
If you need an inspection, roof repairs, or a full replacement, you’ll want to ask about those options and their experience fixing similar issues.
You also want to consider your budget. Whether you need roof maintenance or a new roof installed, it’s a costly investment. Do your research to determine what you should expect to pay for the work you need to be done and the type of roof you have.
Never go with a company that offers prices that are too good to be true, as it could be a scam, or they might use cheap materials. Instead, consider a financing plan. Financing a roof allows you to get a replacement now and pay it off in installments.
Many professionals offer some type of roofing financing option. You should also discuss your options and work with them to find the right roofing materials within your budget. For instance, asphalt is the most common option for residential properties and also the most affordable.
Verify Licensing, Insurance & Who’s Actually Doing the Work
Before signing any contract, it’s critical to verify that your roofing contractor is fully licensed, insured, and qualified to work in your state or municipality.
Here’s what to check:
Licensing & Permits
Make sure the company holds the proper local roofing license. Requirements vary by state, so do a quick search for what’s needed in your area. Most reputable companies will display this on their website, or provide it upon request.
Insurance Coverage
A professional roofer should carry:
- General liability insurance: protects your property if something gets damaged.
- Workers’ compensation insurance: covers injuries to workers on your property, so you’re not liable.
Ask this directly: “Can you provide proof of liability and worker’s comp insurance?”
Beware of Subcontractors
Always ask who will be on your roof. Some companies outsource the labor to subcontractors who may not be trained to that company’s standards, or worse, may not be insured. Request assurance that all workers are:
- Fully licensed and insured
- Regularly vetted or employed directly by the contractor
Look at Their Past Work
A contractor’s project portfolio speaks louder than promises. Reviewing their past work gives you a clear picture of the quality, style, and scope of roofing projects they’ve completed, and whether they’re a good match for your home.
Where to Look
- Most professional roofing companies feature a gallery or “Our Work” section on their website.
- Check their Google Business Profile, Facebook, or Instagram for additional photos and customer feedback.
What to Look For
When reviewing photos, ask yourself:
- Are there homes similar in style or roofing material to mine?
- Does the workmanship look clean, consistent, and well-finished?
- Do they showcase before-and-after photos, close-ups, and aerial shots?
If you don’t see examples online, don’t hesitate to ask. Reputable contractors will gladly:
- Share photos or case studies of recent projects
- Walk you through how they handled challenges
- Provide addresses of past jobs you can drive by (with permission)
Partner With a Roofing Company You Can Count On
Choosing the right roofing contractor doesn’t have to be overwhelming, especially when you know what to look for. By following the steps in this guide, you’ll be better equipped to spot red flags, ask the right questions, and make a confident decision.
At O’Donnell Roofing, we’ve been protecting homes and businesses in Pennsylvania for nearly 100 years. Our team is known for:
- Exceptional craftsmanship backed by decades of experience
- Transparent communication from start to finish
- A full range of services (roofing, siding, gutters, and solar)
Whether you’re dealing with a small leak or need a full roof replacement, we’re here to help. Get a free, no-pressure estimate today, and let’s make sure your home is protected for years to come.
FAQ’s
How can you tell a good roofer?
A good roofer is licensed, insured, and has a strong reputation backed by positive reviews. They’ll offer a clear written estimate, communicate professionally, and have a proven track record with similar projects. Look for transparency, responsiveness, and detailed answers to your questions. These are signs of a contractor who takes their work and your home seriously.
What questions should I ask a roofer?
Ask if they’re licensed and insured, how long they’ve been in business, and whether they use subcontractors. You should also ask about their warranty (both materials and workmanship), expected timeline, cleanup process, and payment terms. Don’t hesitate to ask for local references or examples of past work.
How many quotes should I get for a new roof?
It’s a good idea to get at least three quotes from different contractors. This gives you a better sense of pricing, quality, and professionalism. Be cautious of quotes that are significantly lower than others, they may indicate low-quality materials or cut corners.
What should a roofing contract include?
Your roofing contract should clearly outline the scope of work, materials to be used, timeline, total cost, warranty details, and payment schedule. It should also include the company’s license and insurance information. Don’t sign anything unclear or incomplete.
