Your commercial roof is a major investment, and hiring the right contractor is just as important as choosing the right roofing system. A poorly installed or maintained roof can lead to leaks, structural damage, and expensive repairs down the line. So how do you make sure you’re hiring a contractor you can trust?
At The Duerson Corporation, we’ve seen what happens when businesses go with the cheapest bid or an inexperienced roofer—unfortunately, it often ends with costly repairs and frustration. To help you avoid these pitfalls, here’s what to look for when choosing a commercial roofing contractor.
1. Experience Matters—Make Sure They Specialize in Commercial Roofing
Not all roofing contractors are the same. Some primarily work on residential homes and may not have the skills or experience needed for large-scale commercial projects. Commercial roofs often require different materials, installation techniques, and maintenance than residential roofs, so it’s important to hire a contractor with specific experience in the field.
Questions to Ask:
- How long have you been working with commercial roofing?
- Do you specialize in any particular roofing materials?
- Can you provide examples of past commercial projects?
At The Duerson Corporation, we focus exclusively on Duro-Last roofing systems, which are designed specifically for commercial buildings. Our experience means your roof will be installed correctly the first time.
2. Check Their Licensing and Insurance
A reputable roofing contractor should be fully licensed and insured. This protects both you and them in case of accidents, property damage, or other issues. If a contractor can’t provide proof of insurance, that’s a major red flag.
What to Check For:
- A valid roofing contractor’s license in your state
- General liability insurance
- Workers’ compensation coverage
Working with an uninsured contractor could leave you financially responsible for any damages or injuries that occur on your property.
3. Look at Their Reputation and References
A good contractor will have a track record of happy clients. Don’t just take their word for it—check online reviews, ask for references, and see if they have any complaints filed with the Better Business Bureau.
Ways to Verify Reputation:
- Read Google and Yelp reviews
- Check their Better Business Bureau rating
- Ask for references from past clients
A trustworthy contractor will have no problem providing references or showcasing their previous work. If they hesitate, that’s a sign to move on.
4. Make Sure They Use High-Quality Materials and Offer Warranties
The quality of your commercial roof depends on two things: workmanship and materials. Even the best installation won’t hold up if low-quality materials are used. Ask your contractor about the products they install and whether they offer manufacturer-backed warranties.
Questions to Ask:
- What roofing materials do you use?
- Do you offer warranties on both labor and materials?
- What kind of maintenance does this roofing system require?
At The Duerson Corporation, we use only Duro-Last roofing systems, which are known for their durability and energy efficiency. Plus, we back our work with strong warranties so you can have peace of mind.
5. Get a Clear, Detailed Estimate
A professional contractor should provide a clear and detailed estimate before any work begins. Beware of vague quotes or extremely low bids—these can be signs that corners are being cut, or worse, that surprise charges will be added later.
What a Good Estimate Should Include:
- A breakdown of labor and material costs
- An estimated timeline for completion
- Warranty details
- Payment terms
If a contractor won’t put their pricing in writing, that’s a sign to walk away.
6. Ask About Safety and Compliance
Roofing is dangerous work, and a responsible contractor should follow strict safety protocols to protect their crew and your property. They should also be familiar with local building codes and permitting requirements.
Questions to Ask:
- What safety measures do you have in place?
- Do you follow OSHA guidelines?
- Are you up to date with local building codes?
A contractor who prioritizes safety is more likely to deliver high-quality, compliant work.
7. Pay Attention to Communication and Professionalism
From your first call to project completion, a reliable contractor should be professional, responsive, and easy to communicate with. If they’re hard to reach, vague about details, or slow to respond, you might want to think twice about hiring them.
Signs of a Good Contractor:
- Answers questions clearly and honestly
- Provides timely updates throughout the project
- Treats you and your property with respect
If a contractor is unresponsive before you even sign a contract, imagine how difficult it will be to get them to fix a problem later.
Why Choose The Duerson Corporation?
At The Duerson Corporation, we take pride in our work and believe in doing things the right way. We specialize in Duro-Last commercial roofing systems, offering top-quality materials, expert installation, and outstanding customer service. Our reputation speaks for itself, and we’re always happy to provide references and walk you through our process.
If you need a reliable commercial roofing contractor, give us a call. We’ll provide a clear, honest estimate and ensure your roof is built to last. Contact us today to get started.