Roofing Done Right: Choosing the Best Contractor for Your Home

Feeling Overwhelmed by Roofing Choices? You’re Not Alone.

Selecting a roofing contractor can be stressful. With high-pressure sales tactics and conflicting information, homeowners often feel uncertain about who to trust. Like many other service industries, roofing can feel intimidating—especially when you’re not an expert.

At Newman Roofing, we believe in educating our homeowners, not pressuring them. Our goal isn’t to sell you something—it’s to help you make an informed decision.

Here’s what you need to know before, during, and after meeting with a roofing contractor.

Before Meeting with a Roofing Contractor

1. Track Down the History of Your Roof

Knowing when your roof was last installed can help determine its expected lifespan and whether warranties or insurance claims apply. If you’re unsure, check home improvement records or ask the previous homeowner.

2. Research Roofing Companies

✔ Read Online Reviews: Customer feedback on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau can reveal common trends about a company’s reliability.
✔ Check Licensing & Insurance: A reputable contractor should be fully licensed and insured to protect you from liability.
✔ Look at Their Website: Do they provide clear information about their services and materials? Are they transparent about their process?

3. Ask for Referrals

Word of mouth is powerful. Ask friends, neighbors, or family who have recently had their roofs replaced about their experiences.

During the Roofing Estimate

1. Ask Questions – Lots of Them!

A good contractor should welcome your questions and explain everything in a way that makes sense. Don’t be afraid to ask:

• What materials do you recommend and why?
• How long will the project take?
• What is the full breakdown of costs?
• What warranties do you offer?

2. Request Photos & Documentation

A thorough roofing contractor will inspect your roof visually and document issues with photos. Whether they climb up or use a drone, they should provide clear evidence of any damage.

3. Understand the Contract

Never sign a contract without fully understanding it. A reliable contractor will:
– Clearly outline materials, labor, and payment terms.
– Include warranty details and clean-up expectations.
– Answer all your questions before moving forward.

4. Set Clear Expectations

Before the project starts, your contractor should explain:

• The expected start and completion date.
• How weather or unforeseen issues may affect the timeline.
• What to expect on installation day (noise, debris, safety precautions).

Red Flags to Watch For

– High-pressure sales tactics (“Sign today or lose this deal!”)
– No written estimate or contract details
– Vague answers or unwillingness to provide references
– No license, insurance, or proof of previous work

Your Roof, Your Decision

At the end of the day, you are in control. If you ever feel pressured or uncertain, trust your instincts and seek a second opinion.

At Newman Roofing, we prioritize honesty, integrity, and education—not sales tactics. Whether you choose us or another contractor, we hope this guide empowers you to make the best decision for your home.

Have roofing questions? We’re happy to help!