What To Look For In A Roofing Contractor

What Should You Look For When Hiring A
Fort Worth, TX, Roofing Contractor

When Getting A Roof Replacement Estimate, It’s Best
To Do Your Research And Vet The Company

There are a lot of Fort Worth, TX, roofing contractors – some provide quality work while others leave their customers disappointed. Many roofing companies say their products are superior or their installations are thorough, but few deliver on their promises.

When you need a roof repair or replacement, we recommend getting multiple estimates and researching your choices. Unfortunately, proper research might take more effort than just browsing the company website – it might require you to ask necessary questions, contact references, and make face-to-face contact with the contractor.

These things help ensure you get the work you expect from a reliable and reputable roofing company. Knowing what to look for in a roofing contractor will save time, money, and energy. Here are the required questions to ask potential contractors to ensure you get the best. 

Are They Licensed And Insured?

Roofing contractors do not have to be licensed to operate legally in Texas. Though the law was created to help burgeoning contractors build a resume, it leaves many Fort Worth, TX, homeowners susceptible to bad roofing jobs. If your contractor doesn’t come right out and say they’re licensed, ask them yourself.

Since it’s not legally mandated, many Texas roofing contractors opt to get a voluntary license through the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT). This shows they have taken the initiative to bring better peace of mind to their customers and ensure they’ve passed the rigorous tests RCAT certification requires.

It is required for Texas roofing contractors to be insured – however, not all work legally, or they have the bare minimum in terms of protection. Insurance is crucial to a roofing contractor because, without it, the homeowner can be held liable for any injuries on their property.

Do They Have A Physical Office Location?

A lot of contractors think they can just work out of their cars. However, this shows you they don’t take their business seriously or are probably the only people who work at the company. This means you’ll have to rely on one person for all your communication and, most likely, hire day laborers or subcontractors to help them complete their job.

When a contractor has a physical office location, chances are there are other employees at the company. Having other employees might not sound like a big deal, but it is when it comes down to the quality of their work. Full-time employees should be trained and held accountable by the company, giving you better results. 

What Do Their Reviews And References Say?

Reading online customer reviews is one of the best ways to get to know a company and how they truly work. To get a well-rounded picture of the company, it’s essential to read reviews from multiple independent review sites, such as Google, Yelp, Home Advisor, and Angi.

You can also read reviews on the company’s website. Scan for reviews that pertain to your specific project to see how the company handled itself and how the project turned out. Some review sites even allow you to ask the writer questions, which is helpful if you’re looking for something specific.

It’s also important to ask the contractor for customer references, as they’re willing to describe their experience with the company. With actual real-time interaction, you can ask the customer exact questions. With all the information you gather, weigh your options to find the best contractor. 

How Much Experience Do They Have?

Though every contractor has to start somewhere, it comforts most homeowners to hire someone with sufficient experience. Ask your contractor how long they have been operating. Learning a bit about their back story and how long they’ve been in business brings relief and builds a relationship between you and the contractor.

Interacting with your contractor is the best way to get to know them. You can tell a lot about a person by how they respond to your questions and how well they listen to your concerns. An experienced, reliable roofer should know how to communicate with their clientele and conduct themselves around customers. 

With enough experience, a good contractor should be able to show you photos of their work and finished results. This will give you a better picture of what to expect from the contractor and your project.

First Texas Roofing Brings Fort Worth, TX, Homeowners
The Best Service, Products, And Communication

We’ve seen many Fort Worth, TX, roofing contractors come and go throughout our 15 years of experience. Some only pop in after big storms, while others fail to set up shop and establish a firm foundation. Whatever the case, dozens of Texas contractors have been unable to provide their customers with durable, long-lasting results and excellent customer care. 

This is why we’re committed to doing things differently. At First Texas Roofing, we care deeply about our customer’s satisfaction and do everything in our power to ensure you’re left with a giant smile. From our roof repairs to our roof replacements, you’ll be nothing but happy with your results. 

Call us today at (817) 821–0323 or contact us to set up a free roofing estimate.

Reasons To Replace Your Roof

5 Top Reasons To Replace Your Roof
In Fort Worth, TX

Our Texas Roofing Company Is Ready To Give You A
Roof Replacement Estimate

Without obvious major damage, it can be difficult knowing when to replace your Fort Worth, TX, roof. Homeowners often get caught in a vicious cycle of roof repairs, eventually spending more on repairs than they would have on a replacement. One minor repair can start to add up over time, putting you in a tough predicament.

Roof replacements are costly, so it’s often hard to bite the bullet and invest in one. However, as a roofing company that has been around for over 15 years, we’ve watched homeowners fail to replace their roof year after year, leading to more and more damage and repair costs. 

At First Texas Roofing, we want to help you avoid those missteps and know what to look for and consider when choosing to get a roof replacement. While some reasons are more obvious than others, moving quicker before things get worse is always better. Here are 5 top reasons to replace your roof. 

1. The Age Of Your Roof

Though some roofs hold up better than others, every roof has a lifespan, and once it hits that mark, things start to deteriorate rapidly. Roofs can function well for 25–50 years, so it’s essential to know your roof well and to notice when it’s not behaving like it used to.

A great way to judge its functionality is by looking at your shingles and noticing if any granule loss or warping is occurring. Over the years, shingles lose their granules (the small bumps covering the exterior). Granules are important because they help protect your roof from the outside elements like water, ice, and sun. 

Once you notice granule loss across multiple roof areas, it’s a good idea to think about a roof replacement. When you start replacing shingles individually, you’ll find yourself in a never-ending game of catch-up. Plus, shingles replaced individually don’t have the same integrity as those replaced altogether, leaving your home susceptible to damage.

2. Wear-And-Tear

Though wear-and-tear has a lot to do with age, it can occur at a more rapid pace if your home has experienced storm damage. If you live in harsh weather areas, especially those along coastlines, your roof will likely age faster than other roofs. 

Conducting frequent inspections may help ward off this problem, but once wear-and-tear is evident in multiple places, you’re looking at a roof replacement. If your roof hasn’t been adequately maintained throughout the years, your roof is also likely to suffer more wear-and-tear than others. 

This is also true for roofs with poor gutter systems or those under tree canopies. Different elements will affect how your roof ages and what that wear-and-tear will look like, so it’s better to stay ahead of the game. 

3. Water Leaks

Not all water leaks demand a complete roof replacement, but when you notice multiple leaks or water stains on your ceilings, there’s a significant issue at hand. It takes a while for most water leaks to infiltrate the multiple layers of your home, so when you see a leak inside, that usually means there’s much more water damage that you can’t see. 

If you notice water leaks occurring after big storms, it’s time to replace your roof. Leaks should not happen indoors, and you shouldn’t live surrounded by buckets. Leaks signify that a lot has gone wrong or unnoticed, and they almost always signify the need for a full roof replacement.

4. Damaged Flashing

Flashing is the flat metal that connects your roof to other surfaces, like chimneys or vents. Damaged flashing can cause many issues, such as leaks, moisture retention, and mold growth. Though not all damaged flashing means you need a roof replacement, it could be a sign that you do.

If you notice bent, dinged, or cracked flashing, call a roofing expert who can inspect the damage. From there, they can assess the extent of damage, which may not be visible to the untrained eye, and give you their recommendation.

5. You’re Planning On Selling

Roofs are one of the first things potential homebuyers ask about and look for in a new home. Replacing your roof will make your home more enticing to homebuyers and raise the overall value of your home.

Roof replacements see a high return on investment (ROI), meaning they’re one of the wisest investments in home remodeling when you go to sell. Many roofing warranties also can be extended to new home ownership at least once, so new homeowners can rest assured that they’ll be protected.  

At First Texas Roofing, We’re Ready To Replace Your
Fort Worth, TX, Roof

Whether your roof has recently undergone storm damage or needs an upgrade after years of wear and tear, we can help you start your Fort Worth, TX, roof replacement. For over 15 years, we’ve delivered premium roofing products and incredibly detailed installations to our customers.

Unlike competitors, we work hard to bring you the best – best service, best prices, best insurance negotiations, best communication, and best roof. Our owner is present at every job site every day, conducting quality control to ensure you get incredible results. You’ll always know who you’re dealing with! 

Call us today at (817) 821–0323 or contact us to set up a free roofing estimate! 

What To Expect During a Roof Replacement Estimate

What To Expect In A Fort Worth, TX,
Roof Replacement Estimate

Our Texas Roofing Company Wants To Help You
Get Informed On Your Roofing Project

Getting a roof replacement estimate in Fort Worth, TX, can be overwhelming, stressful, and confusing. There are a lot of companies to choose from and a lot of numbers to look at. Plus, estimates include a language that most homeowners are unaware of.

At First Texas Roofing, we want our customers to stay ahead of the game and prepare themselves on what to expect from a roof replacement estimate. Educating yourself on your home projects is one the most beneficial tools you can acquire to save you hassle, time, and money. 

Though not every roof replacement estimate will look the same, a good estimate should include the following basic information. 

Work Description

An estimate should include the total scope of work for your full roof replacement. This includes a thorough work description, including everything the job entails and what exactly will be done during the project.

After discussing what you’re looking for or what needs to be done to your roof, your roofing adjuster will assess your specific roof and consider everything that needs to be replaced.

Not all roof replacements need the same amount of work, so it’s critical to discuss with your roofing company what you want and don’t want replaced. Your estimate’s work description should include roofing components, such as underlayment, flashing, shingles, and ventilation, and what will be done to them. 

Knowing exactly what will be done during your roof replacement will help clear up any questions and clearly define expectations between you and your roofing company. 

Itemized Costs

Your itemized costs might be the most important piece of your estimate – it will break down your final costs by showing you how your money will be distributed. Important things to look for in your itemized costs are materials, labor, cleanup or removal, and permits.

Once you get estimates from various roofing companies, you can compare how each one distributes its costs. From there, it’s easier to weigh the potential quality of the labor and materials against each other. For example, one company may charge more for labor, but their installations might include more detailed work. 

Another company may charge more for materials, but their materials may be far greater in quality. It’s essential to consider all the variables to determine how to spend your money best.

Payment Terms

Each roofing company will offer different payment terms. This usually means how and when your payment installments will take place. Most companies won’t ask you for the full amount in one go. They usually request a downpayment, followed by an intermediate payment, and finish with a final payment upon completion.

If the terms don’t work for you, you may be able to negotiate with the company, but it’s important to understand the terms you agree to and to follow through with them. Many roofing companies also offer financing options, which won’t necessarily be listed on the estimate but can be inquired about separately. 

Proof Of License And Insurance

It’s crucial that you only use a roofing company that is properly licensed and insured. Not every state requires contractors to be licensed, but it’s always recommended to use one that goes above and beyond. A license means the company has proven itself to the standards put forth by the state’s requirements. 

It’s added comfort to hire a contractor that knows what they’re doing. Your estimate should also state whether or not the company is insured. Being insured is critical, as you can be held liable for any injuries that occur on your property if the company isn’t insured. 

Warranties Or Guarantees

An estimate should also include the specifics of a company’s warranty, including parts and labor. Quality roofing manufacturers will offer warranties with their products, and any good roofing company will offer warranties for their labor. This means if something fails in their workmanship, they come out to repair or replace it. 

It’s crucial to understand the logistics of a warranty before signing anything – as a solid warranty can make or break a deal. The exact terms of the warranties or guarantees should be listed, giving you peace of mind. 

Termination Clause

Professional estimates should also include a termination clause or ways of exiting the contract. If you don’t see a termination clause on the estimate itself, it should definitely be on the contract you sign after agreeing to the estimate. It never hurts to ask your contractor about the terms in the clause before signing.

First Texas Roofing Delivers Clear Roof Replacement
Estimates To Fort Worth, TX, Homeowners

While some other Fort Worth, TX, roofing companies need to rely on dodgy or confusing estimates, First Texas Roofing only delivers clear estimates that are easy to understand. They’re straightforward, written professionally, and consider all aspects. We want to give you the most accurate quote possible!

Plus, we never include hidden fees or surprise charges. We care about our customers and work with integrity to give them durable, reliable, and long-lasting roofing results. For over 15 years, we’ve given our customers the best in service, prices, communication, and more because we appreciate the trust they put in us. 

Call us today at (817) 821–0323 or contact us to set up a free roofing estimate! 

Tips To Avoid Getting Burned By Your Roofing Remodel

5 Ways To Avoid Getting Burned By Your
Fort Worth, TX, Roofing Remodel

Need A Roof Replacement? Know What To Expect In
Advance For The Best Results

Roofing remodels are stressful in Fort Worth, TX, from finding the right company and handing over your hard-earned money to betting on the final results. However, if you know what to look for in advance, you can avoid some of the hassle and headaches that often accompany a roof replacement.

The surest way to avoid getting burned by your remodel is to hire the right company. The right company should provide high-quality products, detailed installations, and respectful customer service. At First Texas Roofing, we’ve seen too many Fort Worth, TX, homeowners get burned by their contractors, so we’ve made it a mission to fix this problem.

By learning what to look for in a company, you’ll surely end up with a beautiful, functional, and long-lasting roof. Here are 5 ways to ensure you don’t get burned along the way.

1. Make Sure Your Company Is Licensed And Insured

Believe it or not, the state of Texas does not require roofing contractors to obtain a license. This means anyone with a little experience can call themselves roofers and legally practice their work in Texas. This makes it all the more important to ensure the roofing company you hire has gotten its license voluntarily. 

A volunteer license is given by the Roofing Contractors State of Texas (RCAT) and ensures the contractor has met their rigorous requirements. The organization puts roofers to the test to prove they have the skills necessary to perform their duties – this includes a roofing skills examination.

A licensed roofing contractor gives you peace of mind knowing they have the skills and knowledge needed to complete a thorough job.

On the other hand, the state of Texas does require roofing contractors to have liability insurance. However, some contractors work illegally, taking on clients when they haven’t been approved for insurance. This means the homeowner becomes responsible if a worker gets injured on their property, something you definitely don’t want to be held liable for.   

2. Read The Contract

A professional roofing company will draw up an estimate, which you’ll accept or reject. If you accept the quote and its stipulations, the company should create a legally binding contract. Most homeowners sign the contract without looking over the project details, leaving them vulnerable to hidden fees and surprises.

Though you don’t need to hire a lawyer to review the contract, it’s a good idea to read it in its entirety. This will help you avoid anything you would otherwise overlook or fail to acknowledge. For example, payment installments and scheduling details are important project components that should be verified before beginning.

If you question anything on the contract, ask your contractor about it. If their answer doesn’t satisfy you, it doesn’t hurt to Google the issue or ask around. Sometimes contract jargon is confusing and hard to understand, but trust your instinct if something feels off. Don’t give the company any money until you have a signed contract in hand!

3. Read Reviews And Ask For References

It’s critical to research the company you want to hire for your roofing remodel before hiring them. Some companies create a good-looking website with little evidence to support their statements. To get the complete picture of a company, dive into customer reviews (and not just the reviews on their own website). 

Read reviews from sites like Yelp, Google, and Angi. These independent sites will give you a more accurate portrayal of the company than those left exclusively on their company website. You’re also less likely to run into fake reviews when searching through outside sources.

Once you’re pleased with the online reviews, ask the contractor for references from past customers. Though references tend to lean towards the positive side, hearing from real customers allows you to ask detailed questions that reviews often skip.

4. Ask For Warranty Information

Ensuring a company offers solid warranties on its products and labor is essential. If they don’t, run in the other direction. Any legitimate roofing contractor can stand behind their work, giving their customers assurance in their craftsmanship. A good roofing warranty usually covers repairs or replacements on anything labor related for a significant length of time. 

Good manufacturers also offer warranties on their roofing products, covering any manufacturing defect that might arise. Hiring a company that offers products without manufacturer warranties is a sure sign that those products are prone to quick failure.

Without solid warranties, you’re responsible for paying out-of-pocket repair or replacement costs. Many unsuspecting homeowners think they’re getting a deal with a cheap product or labor, but they end up paying for it in the long run. 

5. Get Multiple Roofing Estimates

Though it might be tempting to go with the first roofer you call, it’s vital to get at least three estimates before making your decision. We know waiting and dealing with multiple companies is a pain in the neck, but trust us, it’s worth it in the long run. Getting multiple estimates ensures you get the best value for your money. 

Comparing your estimates also allows weighing the pros and cons or wants versus needs. Many times, homeowners panic when it comes to roofing issues, as they’re not problems you can sit on for long. However, knowing you’re getting the best service and products for your money is invaluable.

Multiple roofing estimates also let you see which components are important to that company. For example, a company might charge less for their labor because they know it’s inferior or they think they can raise the prices of materials by upselling the customer. The right contractor finds balance and works hard to provide superior products and labor at affordable prices. 

We Ensure Our Fort Worth, TX, Customers Never Get
Burned With Our Roof Replacements

For over 15 years, we’ve worked diligently to create an ethical, hard-working, and dedicated Fort Worth, TX, roofing company. At First Texas Roofing, we care deeply about our customers, giving them high-quality products, superior installations, and outstanding customer service. 

Whether your roof is suffering from storm damage or needs replacing from normal wear and tear, we’re here and ready to work with your insurance company to ensure you get the maximum amount of your benefits. We know roofing and don’t need to rely on outdated and sleazy sales tactics. Instead, we promise better service and a better experience! 

Call us today at (817) 821–0323 or contact us to set up a free roofing estimate!