Key Questions to Ask Your Commercial Roofer Before Starting Your Project

As businesses in Louisville, KY, and Southern Indiana plan their upcoming projects for the year, one of the most important decisions they’ll make is choosing the right commercial roofer. The roof of your commercial property is a critical part of your building’s structure, and selecting the right roofing contractor ensures that your investment is protected for years to come. Conducting thorough due diligence is essential before signing any contracts, and asking the right questions will help you avoid costly mistakes and unexpected issues down the road.
In this post, we’ll guide you through the key questions you should ask your commercial roofer before starting your next roofing project.
Whether you’re installing a new roof, repairing an existing one, or performing routine maintenance, these questions will help you make an informed decision and position you for a successful partnership with your roofing contractor.

What is Your Experience with Commercial Roofing?

Commercial roofing is vastly different from residential roofing in terms of scale, materials, and installation techniques. It’s crucial to hire a contractor with experience specifically in commercial roofing. Ask the roofer about their experience with different types of commercial roofs, such as asphalt based roofs, EPDM rubber or TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin).

A roofing company with a proven track record in commercial roofing will understand the unique challenges posed by your building type and will be able to recommend the best solutions based on your specific needs.

Are You Insured?

Before you hire any roofer, ensure they are fully insured. Insurance is important as it protects both you and the contractor in case of accidents or property damage during the project. Workman’s compensation insurance also protects you as a building owner.

Always ask for proof of insurance and verify that the coverage is
up-to-date. This helps avoid any potential liabilities and ensure that the roofing contractor is operating within the law.

Do You Subcontract Your Labor?

Many roofing contractors, even commercial roofers, do not use their own employees any more to do the work on your project. They use sub-crews, which can pose many different liability and quality issues no the project.
Sub-crews are sometimes composed of uncontributed immigrants who cannot work legally in the United Stares. Some sub-crews carry minimal liability insurance and workers compensation. If water gets in your building or a worker gets hurt, fingerprinting typically occurs between the company you hired and the sub-crew they hired.

What Type of Roofing Materials Do You Recommend for My Building?

Different commercial buildings require different roofing materials based on factors like climate, building structure, and budget. Ask your roofer about the types of materials they recommend for your project and why. Some common commercial roofing materials include:

• TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin): Known for its energy efficiency and durability, T PO is a popular choice for flat roofs.
• EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): A durable rubber roofing material ideal for low-slope roofs.
• SBS modified built up roofing (BUR) – A thicker more durable option made of multiple layers of asphalt and manufactured reinforced sheets.

Your roofer should be able to provide a detailed explanation of the pros and cons of each material and help you make an informed decision that fits your building’s needs and budget.

Can You Provide References or Examples of Past Projects?

Before hiring a roofing contractor, ask for references from previous clients and examples of past projects. A reputable roofer will have no issue providing references or showcasing their previous work. Speak to past clients about their experience with the contractor—how well the project was managed, the quality of the work, and whether the roofing company met deadlines and stayed within budget.
Reviewing past projects is an excellent way to gauge the roofer’s reliability, craftsmanship, and ability to handle jobs similar to yours. You can also ask for pictures or case studies of projects similar in scope to yours to get a better idea of their work.

What is the Timeline for the Roofing Project?

Time is often of the essence when it comes to commercial roofing projects, especially for businesses that can’t afford extended disruptions to operations. Ask your roofer about the timeline for your project. A professional contractor will be able to provide you with a realistic estimate of how long the roofing project will take, taking into account factors like weather, materials, and any unforeseen challenges.
It’s important to discuss how the contractor plans to minimize disruptions and coordinate with your business’s schedule to ensure minimal downtime during the project.

What Warranties Do You Offer on Roofing Materials and Workmanship?

A quality commercial roofing contractor will offer warranties on both the materials used and the workmanship. Warranties provide peace of mind, knowing that your roof is protected against defects or issues that may arise after installation.
Make sure to ask for details on the warranties offered, including the duration and coverage, so you fully understand what’s covered and what’s not. A strong warranty is an indication of the roofer’s confidence in the materials and their work quality.

How Highland Roofing Stands Out

At Highland Roofing, we are proud to offer high-quality commercial roofing services to businesses in Louisville, KY, and Southern Indiana. With years of experience and a team of certified professionals, we specialize in providing roofing solutions that are tailored to meet the unique needs of each commercial property. From installing durable flat roofs to repairing aging metal roofing, we have the expertise and resources to handle any commercial roofing project.
We are committed to delivering exceptional service with a focus on safety, quality, and efficiency. Our team works closely with business owners to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget, minimizing disruptions to your operations.

Conclusion

As you plan your upcoming roofing project, asking the right questions is crucial to ensuring a successful outcome. By working with a knowledgeable, experienced roofing contractor like Highland Roofing, you can rest assured that your commercial roof will be installed or repaired to the highest standards.
If you’re ready to start your next commercial roofing project, don’t hesitate to reach out to Highland Roofing. Our team is here to help guide you through the process and provide expert roofing solutions that protect your investment for years to come.

Need a reliable commercial roofing partner? Contact Highland Roofing today for expert advice and professional roofing solutions in Louisville, KY, and Southern Indiana. We’re here to help with all your commercial roofing needs!
For more information on our commercial roofing services, visit Highland Roofing’s Commercial Roofing Page.