(ARA) - Summer’s here and the living is easy. Or at least it would be if you hadn’t put off that list of spring home repairs. Some you’ll take care of yourself. The plugged utility drain is disgusting, but doable and the leaky faucet just takes a trip to the hardware store and some elbow grease. But if a leaky or worn roof is on the list, it’s best to get help from a reputable roofing contractor. Professional roofers are trained to safely and efficiently inspect, repair and replace roofing systems.

But how do you find a roofing contractor -- or better yet, a good one? This onerous task ranks right up there with answering an IRS audit. Not all contractors are equal, and knowing a little about what you should ask and look for will go a long way toward making sure you get a quality roof and a pleasant experience. Remember, price is just one of the criteria for selecting a roofing contractor. Professionalism, experience and quality workmanship should also be part of your decision.

Here are some things to consider when shopping for a roofing contractor:

Get the Facts

Check for a permanent place of business, telephone number, proof of insurance, tax identification number and, where applicable, a business license. If required in your state, make sure the roofing contractor is properly licensed and bonded -- and ask for proof. Don’t just take their word for it. Your state's Department of Professional Regulation or Licensing Board will have this information.

References Please

Look for a contractor with a proven track record, client references and a list of completed projects. Call these customers to find out whether they were satisfied, and ask if you can drive by to view the completed project. Ask questions about specific things that are worrying you, such as how long the job took or how many people will be on your roof at once.

Get it in Writing

Make sure everything about the job is written in the contract. These include project costs, clean-up expectations and daily start and finish times. It should also include the brand names and colors of the major materials you have selected for the job.

Any Complaints?

Call your local Better Business Bureau or Department of Professional Regulation to check for possible complaints filed against the contractor.

Safety is Serious Business

Choose a contractor that is committed to worker safety and education. The best roofing contractor is only as good as the workers who install the roof system.

One of the best ways to find a qualified contractor is by referral. Ask your friends, family members and neighbors for a recommendation. You can also get an online referral from the Web sites of most major roofing shingle manufacturers. In order to properly install today’s integrated roofing systems, many roofing product manufacturers like Owens Corning require training to certify the contractors who use their products.

When online, you can get a head start by looking at your roofing options – colors, textures and more – with visualization tools like Owens Corning’s Exterior FX (www.owenscorning.com) that allow you to try different roofing looks on a variety of different house styles before you buy. From there, Owens Corning’s ProConnect contractor locator service can help you find certified professional roofing contractors in your area.

Buying a new roof system is an important investment, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Do your homework. Before you spend your money, spend a little time to evaluate who you’re hiring to install your roof. Then you can get back to your summertime fun, worry-free.

Courtesy of ARA Content

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