Metal roofing systems have become more and more common in recent years. They are valued for their unmatched durability and longevity, as well as their clean, sleek look. While a homeowner can enjoy a myriad of benefits from a metal roofing system, the professionalism of the installer and the quality of the installation play a crucial role in determining the value of the system. If not installed properly, the roof can fail you long before the end of its projected shelf life. If you want to ensure that your roofing contractor knows the ins and outs of installing a metal roof, start with the following 5 questions.

Is Your Roofer Licensed and Insured?

Determining whether your Maryland roofing contractor is licensed can help you determine their training, education, and professional background. Every state has its own licensing requirements, and a metal roofing installation specialist with a proper license is someone who understands regulations and has fulfilled certain course requirements. A licensed contractor will understand the essentials and the potential pitfalls or roadblocks to a successful installation. Beyond checking for a valid license, you’re going to want to be certain that your roofing contractor has worker’s compensation insurance as well as general liability insurance, in order to cover any property damage or injury that might be sustained on the job.

How Long Has Your Roofer Been In Business?

Licensing and insurance are important things to note, but a roofer’s experience is equally important. You’re going to want to choose a contractor who is well-established in the community, someone with at least 5-10 years of experience in the roofing business. As with any job for which you’d hire a professional, you don’t want an unseasoned newbie. You’re going to want someone who has years of experience performing exactly the type of work they’re going to perform on your Maryland home. In addition to choosing based on experience, you’re going to want to try and get testimonials from other customers to see if they’ve been happy with their installation.

What is the Warranty for My New Roof?

A metal roof has a significantly longer service life than an asphalt or other type of shingled roof. As opposed to a 5-10 year warranty, you’re generally going to be looking at a warranty in the 50-year range. Confirm, in writing, what your warranty includes before having the installation performed.

What is the Installation Process?

There are two main ways that a contractor can install a new metal roof. The first requires the installer to completely remove the current roof and replace it with the new metal one. The second method is called re-roofing, and it has the new metal roof being installed directly over the existing roof. While both are valid and effective installation methods, it’s important that you verify the installation process with the contractor to ensure that everything will be sealed properly, preventing water infiltration and other problems that could arise due to a poor job. You’re going to want to make sure your contractor installs the new roof without compromising the existing structure. A good contractor will use ladder stabilizers and standoffs to protect your gutter, and will take other precautions to make sure your property isn’t damaged.

Who Cleans Up?

There will be a lot of debris, some hazardous, as a result of the installation. Any good roofing contractor will clean this up themselves, realizing that the cleanup process is their responsibility and, in fact, an important part of the job itself.

A professional contractor can be difficult to find, but when you’re ready to have your questions answered, contact DC Generals for all your roofing needs!