When it comes to keeping your home safe and protected, your roof plays a huge role. In Cleveland, where the weather can get pretty wild, making sure your roof is in good shape is super important. Whether you’re dealing with leaks, missing shingles, or just need a full replacement, hiring the right roofing company is key. But with so many options out there, how do you know who to trust? We’ll walk you through expert tips for hiring the best roofing company in Cleveland.
Why Hiring Roofing Companies in Cleveland Matters
Your roof is the first line of defense against harsh weather like heavy snow, rain, and wind. If your roof isn’t properly installed or maintained, it can lead to bigger issues like leaks, mold, and even structural damage. Hiring the right roofing company ensures your roof lasts longer, stays durable, and saves you money in the long run.
Tip #1: Look for Local Experience
One of the first things you want to check is if the roofing company has experience working in Cleveland. The city has its own unique weather patterns, with freezing winters, lots of snow, and strong winds. A local company will be familiar with these challenges and know what materials work best. They’ll also be up-to-date on Cleveland’s building codes and permit requirements.
Why this matters: A company that understands Cleveland’s climate will provide better recommendations and services tailored to your home’s needs.
Tip #2: Check for Proper Licensing and Insurance
Any reputable roofing company should have the necessary licenses and insurance. This includes liability insurance and workers’ compensation. These two things protect both you and the workers. If something goes wrong during the project, like damage to your property or an injury on the job, the insurance company will cover it. Without these protections, you could be held responsible.
Tip #3: Look at Online Reviews and Ask for References
Nowadays, it’s easy to find reviews online, and roofing companies are no exception. Check sites like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for honest customer feedback. A company with mostly positive reviews is a good sign, but don’t just rely on the star ratings. Read the comments to get a feel for how the company handles both good and bad situations. In addition to online reviews, ask the roofing company for references. A reputable company should be more than happy to give you a list of past clients you can call to ask about their experience.
Pro tip: If a company refuses to provide references or has a lot of negative reviews, that’s a red flag!
Tip #4: Ask About Warranties
Warranties are your safety net in case something goes wrong after the roof is installed. There are two types of warranties to ask about: the manufacturer’s warranty and the workmanship warranty. The manufacturer’s warranty covers the materials used, while the workmanship warranty covers the labor. You want to make sure the roofing company offers both. A good company should be confident in their work and willing to fix any issues that come up after the project is done.
Why this matters: A strong warranty means the company stands by the quality of their work and materials.
Tip #5: Don’t Be Afraid to Get Multiple Quotes
Roofing is a big investment, so you don’t want to settle on the first company you talk to. It’s a good idea to get quotes from at least three different companies. This will give you a better sense of what’s fair in terms of pricing and help you avoid overpaying. When comparing quotes, make sure you’re not just looking at the price. You want to consider the quality of materials, the experience of the workers, and what’s included in the quote (e.g., cleanup, disposal of old roofing materials, etc.).
Pro tip: Be wary of quotes that seem too good to be true. A very low price could mean the company is cutting corners on materials or labor.
Tip #6: Understand Their Payment Terms
Before signing any contract, make sure you fully understand the payment terms. Most roofing companies will ask for a deposit before starting the job, but be cautious of anyone asking for full payment upfront. A reasonable deposit is around 10-30% of the total cost, with the remainder due upon completion.
Questions to ask:
- How much is the deposit?
- What payment methods do you accept?
- When is the final payment due?
Tip #7: Ask About the Crew’s Experience
Roofing is skilled work, so you want to know who will actually be working on your roof. Some companies subcontract jobs to other crews, which could result in less experienced workers handling your project. Be sure to ask if the company’s own employees will be doing the work or if they use subcontractors. It’s always better to go with a company that has a well-trained and experienced in-house team.
Why this matters: You want to be sure that the people working on your roof have the proper experience and training to do the job right.
Tip #8: Make Sure They Have a Cleanup Plan
Roofing projects can be messy. Old shingles, nails, and debris can end up all over your yard. A reputable roofing company will include cleanup as part of their service, ensuring that your property is left as clean as they found it. Ask them what their cleanup plan is and if they will remove all debris at the end of the job.
Pro tip: Some companies even use magnets to pick up any stray nails from your lawn, so ask about this service!
Tip #9: Check for a Physical Office
While it might seem old-fashioned, a roofing company with a physical office location is a good sign. It shows they are established and less likely to disappear from you after the job is done. Having an office also makes it easier to reach them if you need to follow up on any warranty work or additional services in the future.
Why this matters: A physical office shows that the company is committed to its business and won’t vanish after your project is complete.
Tip #10: Trust Your Gut
At the end of the day, trust your instincts. If something feels off about a roofing company—whether it’s the way they communicate or their willingness to answer your questions—don’t be afraid to walk away. You want to feel confident in the company you choose, knowing they will do a good job and stand behind their work.
Ensuring Peace of Mind With the Right Cleveland Roofing Company
Hiring the right roofing company in Cleveland is a big decision, but following these expert tips will make the process easier. Remember to look for local experience, check their licenses and insurance, read reviews, and ask about warranties. Don’t be afraid to get multiple quotes and compare what’s offered. In the end, trust your gut and go with the company that feels right for your project. By choosing wisely, you’ll ensure your roof is in good hands, protecting your home for years to come.
The Best Roofing Companies in Cleveland
For expert advice on your roofing needs and a professional high-quality roof replacement, contact Smith Roofing in Cleveland today. Whether you need a thorough inspection, a complete roof replacement, or have questions about the best materials for your home, our team is here to help. Call us at 440-659-2353 or 330-574-9061 or visit our website for exceptional services.
Stacey is a graduate of BGSU, where she graduated with a B.A. in Interpersonal Communication and a Minor in Marketing. Stacey’s focus of study was Business Management. Stacey has been with the Company since November of 1999, she became the Office Manager in 2003. Stacey now serves as the Vice-President for the Company. She has been a Member of the Rocky River Chamber of Commerce since 2016. Stacey and her brother, Drew Smith, continue to follow in their Father’s footsteps bringing new innovations, new programs, new products and new techniques to help the Company’s efficiency, safety and customer satisfaction.
