3 Questions to Ask Before Hiring Local Roofers

February 12, 2025

Finding a reliable roofing contractor can be a daunting task, especially with the abundant choices available. Your roof is an essential component of your home, and hiring the right professionals ensures it is installed or repaired correctly. Before making a decision, there are critical questions you should ask to ensure that you select the best local roofers to meet your needs. Making uninformed hiring decisions can result in unnecessary costs, stress, and potential mistakes during the project's completion.


1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

One of the first questions to ask any potential roofer is whether they are licensed and insured. A legitimate and professional roofing company should have proper licensing to operate in your area and carry insurance to protect both you and your workers. This step is crucial in safeguarding yourself from any potential liabilities that may arise during the construction process.


2. Can You Provide References and Examples of Past Work?

Checking the quality of a roofer's past work is imperative. Ask for references and take the time to contact previous clients to hear about their experiences. Viewing completed projects can provide insight into their craftsmanship and reliability. According to IBISWorld, with over 96,474 roofing businesses in the U.S. as of 2023, narrowing down your options through references can significantly streamline your decision-making process.


3. What Is the Estimated Timeline for Completion?

Timing is key when it comes to roofing projects. An experienced roofer should be able to provide an estimated timeline for the completion of your job. Understanding how long the project will take helps manage expectations and plan accordingly, especially if roofing work might disrupt your daily routines or schedule. Clear and upfront timelines demonstrate professionalism and commitment.


Choosing the right local roofer can make all the difference in the quality and longevity of your roof. By asking the right questions, you ensure not only your peace of mind but also the safety and enhancement of your home. Take the time to vet potential candidates thoroughly, and you will be rewarded with results that satisfy your expectations and stand the test of time. If you are seeking expert local roofers, be sure to contact Crest Roofing today! We look forward to taking your phone call soon!

3 Questions to Ask Before Hiring Local Roofers
May 28, 2025
Year-round sunshine, ocean breezes, and no snow to shovel. There’s no denying the perks of living in South Florida. But our tropical lifestyle does come with a hidden cost. Between the scorching sun, salty air, heavy humidity, and hurricane season, roofs tend to wear out faster here than they do in milder climates. Even high-quality, professionally installed roofs don’t last as long here as they do in more temperate regions. So, exactly how often should a roof be replaced in Florida ? Not sure if yours is due for a replacement or what signs to look for? In this guide, we’ll break it all down: how long roofs typically last in Florida, the first signs of damage, and the best roofing materials for Florida. How to Know You Need a New Roof First things first, how long should a roof last in Florida ? While roofs in northern states can last around 25–30 years, Florida’s extreme conditions speed up wear and tear. Most Florida roofs need attention or replacement within 10 to 15 years. We recommend a professional inspection at least every decade, or sooner if your home has gone through several storms. If your carrier flags your roof during inspection, we’d also recommend you act quickly before they limit or drop your policy altogether. Here are the top signs that your roof might need a replacement: Exterior Warning Signs Cracked, curled, or missing shingles Dark streaks, mold, or algae growth Granules collecting in gutters or downspouts Sagging rooflines or dips in the decking Pooled water that doesn’t drain after rainfall Interior Warning Signs Water stains on ceilings or attic insulation Active leaks during or after rainstorms Unexplained spikes in your energy bill Storm-Specific Damage to Watch For Wind-lifted or torn-off shingles Dents from hail or flying debris UV cracking or fading from constant sun Water intrusion following hurricanes or tropical systems What’s the Best Roofing Material for Florida? Now you might be wondering, how much does a roof cost in florida ? We’ll get into the numbers below, but the answer depends on size, complexity and, most of all, materials. Florida roofs need a material that can handle heat, wind, moisture, and UV exposure without cracking under pressure. These are some of the best roofing materials for Florida homes along with their pros and cons: Clay Tiles Pros: Beautiful aesthetic, long lifespan, excellent wind resistance Cons: Heavier weight, higher cost, more complex installation Concrete Tiles Pros: Highly durable, energy-efficient, great in high-heat conditions Cons: Requires structural support due to weight, moderate investment Asphalt Shingles Pros: Budget-friendly, straightforward installation, lightweight Cons: More susceptible to UV fading, may require more frequent repairs Metal Roofing Pros: Long lifespan, energy efficiency, high wind resistance Cons: More noticeable noise during heavy rain, higher upfront investment Composite Shingles Pros: Excellent durability, versatile design options, UV-resistant properties Cons: Relatively newer material, slightly higher cost than standard asphalt Need help deciding? That’s what we’re here for. We can help you choose a roofing material that balances style, storm resistance, and budget. What Happens During a Roof Replacement? Replacing a roof in South Florida can take anywhere from a few days to a week. It’ll all depend on your home’s size and the material you choose. We’ll handle all the permitting and scheduling beforehand so your project can stay on track. You'll receive a clear daily schedule, but here’s what the process usually looks like: Step 1: Roof Tear-Off and Decking Inspection We’ll start by removing your existing roof and inspect the underlying structure for any hidden damage like rot or mold. Step 2: Waterproofing Installation In this step, we’ll install a high-quality waterproof underlayment, this is a protective barrier that shields your home from moisture infiltration. We’ll also add flashing (metal strips that prevent water seepage) around vulnerable areas like chimneys, vents, and skylights. Step 3: Roof Installation Once that’s done, we’ll install your new roofing system, using industry best practices and meeting all local building codes. Step 4: Final Inspection and Cleanup As the last step, we’ll inspect every detail, secure all fasteners, and then clean up your yard for debris. How to Prepare Your Home for Roof Replacement A little preparation goes a long way. Before our roofing crew arrives, take these simple steps to protect your home and keep things running smoothly: Move vehicles out of the driveway Remove outdoor décor and patio furniture Cover flower beds and landscaping with tarps Keep pets inside and away from work zones Take down wall art or fragile shelf items to avoid damage from vibrations Budgeting for Your Florida Roof Replacement Let’s talk numbers: how much is a new roof in Florida ? Like we mentioned earlier, the answer depends on your material choice, home size, and roof complexity. But here’s a general idea of what you can expect for roof replacement costs in South Florida: Asphalt shingles : $8,000-$14,000+ Tile roofing : $15,000-$30,000+ Metal roofing : $18,000-$40,000+ These estimates include removal of your old roof, materials, labor, permits, and cleanup. Keep in mind that while quality materials come with a higher initial cost, they typically have a longer lifespan and offer more energy savings. South Florida’s climate isn’t kind to roofs, but with the right materials, expert installation, and regular upkeep, you can protect your home for decades to come. Whether you’re overdue for a replacement or just planning ahead, we’re here to help every step of the way. Contact our expert team today for your free estimate ! Your Trusted South Florida Roofer We bring over 25 years of hands-on experience, local knowledge, and a genuine passion for helping our community protect their homes. As a veteran-owned, licensed, and insured company, we specialize in residential and commercial roofing solutions that are fast, reliable, and tailored to your needs. From emergency leak repairs to full replacements, our friendly, bilingual team led by Todd offers same-day free estimates, service within 24 hours, and warranties of up to 30 years. We even work directly with insurance companies to make your life easier. Learn more about us here .
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