Don’t Get Ripped Off: How to Choose a Professional Roofing Company

Why Choosing the Right Roofing Company Matters

Finding a professional roofing company near me is one of the most critical decisions a homeowner can make. Your roof is your home’s first and most important line of defense against the elements, and its integrity depends entirely on the quality of the materials used and the skill of the contractor you hire. The wrong choice can lead to a cascade of costly mistakes and serious safety hazards. An improperly installed roof can result in chronic leaks, structural damage from moisture, and even premature failure, forcing you to replace it years ahead of schedule. Conversely, partnering with the right professional ensures your largest investment is protected for decades to come.

Quick Answer: How to Find a Professional Roofing Company Near You

1. Verify credentials – Confirm they have proper state licensing, general liability insurance, and worker’s compensation coverage. Look for elite manufacturer certifications (like GAF Master Elite).
2. Check reviews and references – Scrutinize BBB ratings, detailed online reviews on multiple platforms, and insist on speaking with recent local customer references.
3. Get multiple written estimates – Obtain and compare at least three itemized quotes that transparently break down all costs for materials, labor, permits, and timelines.
4. Ask the right questions – Inquire about their warranty details (both workmanship and material), daily cleanup procedures, crew supervision, and who your dedicated point of contact will be.
5. Review the contract carefully – Ensure every promise, material specification, and project detail is documented in a legally binding contract before signing or paying a deposit.

The stakes are incredibly high. A poor roofing job performed by an unqualified or uninsured contractor can void material warranties, cause premature roof failure, and violate local building codes, potentially creating issues when you sell your home. According to GAF, North America’s largest roofing manufacturer, certified contractors are trusted to offer the strongest warranties precisely because they meet rigorous standards for training, insurance, and proven reputation. These are not just roofers; they are vetted professionals.

Hiring the right local expert brings invaluable peace of mind. It means knowing the job is done correctly, with expert workmanship and high-quality materials that will protect your family for decades. A new roof also significantly boosts your home’s curb appeal and overall value. In fact, studies from the National Association of Realtors show that sellers often recover over 100% of the cost of a new roof at resale, making it one of the wisest home improvement investments you can make. This guide will walk you through every step of the process, helping you avoid common pitfalls like storm chasers and low-ball bids, so you can make an informed and confident decision for your home.

Step 1: Identify When You Need a Professional Roofer

Knowing when to call a professional roofing company near me can prevent a small issue from becoming a costly emergency. Many homeowners don’t think about their roof until something goes wrong, but recognizing the warning signs early is key.

A roof’s age is a primary indicator. A typical asphalt shingle roof lasts 20-25 years. If your roof is approaching or has passed this age, it’s wise to schedule an inspection. Beyond age, look for visual clues like missing, cracked, or curling shingles. Another telltale sign is an excessive amount of shingle granules accumulating in your gutters, which indicates the shingles are deteriorating.

The most alarming signs are leaks and water damage. Water stains on your ceiling or walls require immediate attention to prevent mold, rot, and structural damage. A sagging roof deck is an even more serious issue, suggesting structural problems that need an immediate professional evaluation. Finally, widespread moss or algae growth can trap moisture and accelerate rot.

Regular maintenance is your best defense against major problems. Simple tasks like clearing debris and trimming overhanging branches can significantly extend your roof’s lifespan. Proactive care, as detailed in the Benefits of Regular Roof Inspections, saves money in the long run.

Roof Repair vs. Roof Replacement

Once you spot a problem, you must decide between repair and replacement.

A targeted repair is often the best solution for minor, localized issues like a few missing shingles or a small leak on a relatively young roof. Our Roof Repair Winston Salem services can efficiently address these specific problems, restoring your roof’s integrity.

A full replacement is the smarter investment when damage is widespread, you have multiple leaks, or the roof is near the end of its expected lifespan. While a Roof Replacement Winston Salem is a larger upfront cost, it provides superior long-term protection, a new warranty, and improved curb appeal. Constantly paying for repairs on an old roof can be more expensive over time than a one-time replacement.

The best way to decide is with a professional Roof Inspection. An experienced roofer can assess the overall condition and provide an honest recommendation based on your roof’s specific needs.

What to Do in a Roofing Emergency

Storms can cause sudden and severe roof damage. If you find yourself in a roofing emergency, follow these steps:

1. Prioritize Safety: Ensure everyone in your household is safe. Never climb onto a damaged roof, as it can be extremely dangerous.
2. Assess from the Ground: Walk around your property to look for visible damage like missing shingles, punctures, or displaced flashing.
3. Document Everything: Take clear photos and videos of all damage from multiple angles. This documentation is crucial for your insurance claim. Be aware of common issues like Wind Damage to Roof and less obvious hail damage.
4. Contact Your Insurer: Report the damage to your insurance company immediately to start the claims process.
5. Call an Emergency Roofer: A reputable roofing company can provide a professional assessment, perform temporary measures like tarping to prevent further water intrusion, and work with you and your insurer to expedite repairs.

Recognizing when you need a professional roofing company near me is the first step toward protecting your home, whether for routine maintenance, a major replacement, or an emergency.

Step 2: How to Find a Reputable Professional Roofing Company Near Me

Once you’ve identified your roofing needs, the next crucial phase is finding the right professional roofing company near me. In this search, prioritizing a local company is one of the smartest decisions you can make. A truly local roofer has a physical office and a vested interest in the community. They possess invaluable, firsthand knowledge of your area’s specific building codes, permit requirements, and challenging climate conditions. This allows them to recommend materials and installation techniques proven to hold up against local weather patterns, from intense summer sun to wind and hail. Furthermore, a local contractor can respond quickly in an emergency and is accountable to their neighbors. Their reputation is built one job at a time within the community, giving them every incentive to provide excellent service and stand behind their work.

At Smithrock Roofing, we proudly serve Winston-Salem, King, Clemmons, Lewisville, Pilot Mountain, East Bend, Mt. Airy, Kernersville, Siloam, Danbury, High Point, Trinity, Pfafftown, Tobaccoville, Greensboro, Walnut Cove, Belews Creek, Rural Hall, Pinnacle, Bethania, Advance, Wallburg, Horneytown, Union Cross, and Midway, NC. We don’t just work in these communities—we live here and are dedicated to protecting the homes of our neighbors.

Where to Look for Local Roofers

To build a strong list of potential candidates, cast a wide net using a combination of modern and traditional resources. Don’t rely on a single source.

• Online Search: Start with specific search terms like “professional roofing company near me,” “best roofers in [your city],” or “GAF certified roofer [your town].” Look beyond the paid ads at the top. Dive into the Google Business Profiles in the map section. Check for a legitimate physical address (not a P.O. Box), browse customer photos of their work, and read through the Questions & Answers section.
• Word-of-Mouth Referrals: Ask friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors for recommendations. A personal referral is powerful, but be sure to qualify it. Ask follow-up questions like: “What specific work did they do?” “Was the project completed on time and on budget?” “How did they handle communication and any unexpected issues?” “Would you hire them again without hesitation?”
• Manufacturer Certification Programs: This is a gold-standard method. Top manufacturers like GAF have rigorous certification programs (e.g., GAF Master Elite®) that vet contractors for proper licensing, adequate insurance, financial stability, and a proven track record of quality. You can find a GAF-certified contractor directly on their website, giving you a pre-vetted list of top-tier professionals.
• Better Business Bureau (BBB): Use the Better Business Bureau to check a company’s rating, complaint history, and accreditation status. An A+ accredited business has demonstrated a commitment to resolving customer issues and operating ethically.
• Online Reviews: Read customer feedback on Google, Yelp, Angi, and Facebook. Look for consistent themes, both positive and negative. Pay close attention to detailed reviews that describe the entire process. Note how the company responds to criticism—a professional response to a negative review can be more telling than a dozen positive ones. We invite you to read our Reviews to see what our clients say about their experience.

Creating Your Shortlist

After gathering names from these various sources, your goal is to narrow the field to three to five highly qualified companies. This number is the sweet spot—it’s enough to get competitive bids and compare approaches without becoming overwhelming.

Begin by visiting each company’s website. A professional, informative website that clearly outlines services, showcases a gallery of completed projects, and provides credential information is a sign of a well-run operation. Look for evidence of local work. If you’re in the Triad, searching for Roofing Contractors in Winston Salem should lead you to companies with a proven local portfolio.

Finally, conduct a brief phone screening with each company on your shortlist. Use this call to gauge their professionalism, responsiveness, and customer service. Do they answer the phone professionally? Are they willing to answer your initial questions? Trust your instincts. If a company seems dismissive, disorganized, or overly aggressive with sales tactics, it’s best to cross them off your list. You are looking for a reliable partner to manage one of your home’s most critical and expensive components.

Step 3: Vetting Your Potential Roofing Contractors

With a shortlist of promising companies, it’s time to perform your due diligence. This vetting phase is the most important step in protecting your investment and ensuring a positive outcome. Don’t be afraid to ask tough questions and verify every claim. A truly professional roofing company near me will welcome your scrutiny and provide all necessary documentation with confidence. Taking these essential steps is the key to learning How to Be Happy With Your Contractor.

Key Questions to Ask a Professional Roofing Company Near Me

Treat this stage like an interview. Come prepared with these questions for each contractor, and pay close attention to their answers.

• Are you licensed and fully insured? This is the first and most critical question. They must have a valid state or local license. More importantly, they must provide proof of two types of insurance: general liability (to protect your property from damage) and worker’s compensation (to cover their crew in case of injury). A red flag is any hesitation or a claim that your homeowner’s insurance provides coverage. Ask for the insurance certificates and tell them you will be verifying them.
• Do you provide a written warranty for both materials and workmanship? Reputable companies offer a material warranty from the manufacturer and a separate workmanship (or labor) warranty from the contractor. Ask for specifics: How long is the workmanship warranty? What exactly does it cover? Is it transferable to a new owner? We provide a comprehensive Warranty because we stand behind our work.
• Who will be my point of contact and who is supervising the crew? A smooth project requires clear communication. You need to know who your dedicated project manager is and that there will be an experienced supervisor on-site to oversee the work, not just a crew of installers.
• Do you use subcontractors for any part of the installation? Some companies subcontract the labor. If they do, you need to know that the subcontractors are also fully licensed and insured, and that the primary contractor guarantees their work. Unvetted subcontractors introduce significant risk.
• What is your experience with my chosen roofing material? Whether you want asphalt shingles, standing seam metal, or another material, ensure the company has extensive, proven experience installing that specific system. Ask to see photos of recent, similar projects.
• What is your process for site protection and cleanup? A professional crew respects your property. Ask how they plan to protect your landscaping, siding, and windows. They should have a clear plan for daily cleanup and a final, thorough sweep for nails and debris, often using magnetic rollers.
• Can you provide at least three recent customer references? Speaking with past customers in your area is one of the best ways to gauge a contractor’s reliability, communication, and the quality of their finished product. Ask for references from jobs completed in the last year.

Verifying Credentials of a Professional Roofing Company Near Me

Don’t just take their word for it—independently verify their credentials. This is what separates homeowners who have good experiences from those who have nightmares.

• Licensing: Contact your state’s licensing board or local municipal building department. You can usually verify a license number online to ensure it is active and in good standing.
• Insurance: This is non-negotiable. Request current certificates for both general liability and worker’s compensation directly from the contractor’s insurance agent. The certificate should name you, the homeowner, as an additional insured. Call the insurance provider listed on the certificate to confirm that the policies are active and will remain so for the duration of your project.
• Certifications: Manufacturer certifications are a powerful third-party endorsement of a roofer’s quality. For example, the GAF Master Elite® designation is awarded to only the top 2% of roofing contractors in North America. These contractors are fully licensed, insured, have a proven reputation, and are committed to ongoing professional training. You can Find a GAF-certified contractor and verify their status directly on GAF’s website.

Getting and Comparing a Free Roof Estimate

Request a detailed, written estimate from each of your top three candidates. A professional professional roofing company near me will provide a comprehensive, multi-page document, not a one-page quote with a single price.

A proper estimate is a roadmap for your project and should include:

• A detailed scope of work, including the full tear-off of old roofing, inspection of the roof deck, and installation of all new components.
• Itemized costs for both labor and materials.
• Specific material specifications: brand, type, and color of shingles; type of underlayment; details on flashing, ventilation, etc.
• The cost for potential extra work, such as the per-sheet price for replacing rotten or damaged roof decking (plywood/OSB).
• A project timeline with estimated start and completion dates.
• A clear payment schedule. Be extremely wary of any contractor demanding a large deposit or full payment upfront.
• Detailed warranty information for both materials and workmanship.

When comparing estimates, resist the temptation to automatically choose the lowest bid. A significantly lower price often indicates cut corners, inferior materials, or inadequate insurance. Instead, focus on the value and clarity provided. A thorough, transparent estimate is the hallmark of a trustworthy contractor. While a Roofing Calculator can give you a ballpark figure, it’s no substitute for a formal, in-person Roof Estimate based on a meticulous inspection of your specific roof.

Step 4: Understanding Roofing Services, Materials, and Options

Choosing a professional roofing company near me isn’t just about finding a good contractor; it’s also about understanding the services they offer and the materials available. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions that align with your budget, aesthetic preferences, and the long-term needs of your home.

When you’re exploring roofing options, you’ll quickly find that different materials come with distinct advantages and trade-offs. The table below compares the most common roofing materials to help you understand what might work best for your home:

Common Services Offered

A professional roofing company near me should offer a comprehensive range of services to protect your home’s entire exterior envelope. At Smithrock Roofing, we pride ourselves on providing complete solutions custom to your specific needs. Whether you’re dealing with a minor leak or need a complete roof overhaul, we’ve got you covered.

Our core services include Roof Installation for new construction or complete replacements, where we handle every detail with precision and quality materials. When you need targeted fixes, our Roof Repair Services address specific issues efficiently, helping extend your roof’s life without the expense of a full replacement. Of course, when repairs are no longer sufficient, we provide full Roof Replacement to give your home a fresh, durable, and protective new roof.

We also understand that business properties have unique roofing needs, which is why we specialize in Commercial Roofing solutions. Commercial roofs, often flat or low-slope, require different materials and expertise, such as TPO, EPDM, and modified bitumen systems. Our team has the expertise to handle these complexities.

Storm damage is an unfortunate reality in our area, and we’re here to help when disaster strikes. Our specialized services include working as Hail Damage Roofers and providing expert Wind Damage Repair. We’ll help you restore your roof after severe weather and work with your insurance company to make the process as smooth as possible.

Beyond the roof itself, we offer comprehensive gutter services, because proper water diversion is vital for protecting your home’s foundation. This includes installation of seamless aluminum gutters and gutter guards to prevent clogs. We also provide siding services to improve your home’s curb appeal and energy efficiency, and high-quality window replacement featuring products like Norandex eXtreme 3000S windows. Even smaller details like chimney caps are part of our commitment to ensuring all aspects of your roofing system are secure and functioning properly.

Understanding the Complete Roofing System

A roof is not just the shingles you see from the street; it’s a complex system of integrated components working together. A professional installation ensures every part of this system is installed correctly.

1. Roof Decking (or Sheathing): This is the wooden foundation of your roof, typically made of OSB or plywood sheets. A roofer must inspect it for rot or damage during a tear-off and replace any compromised sections.
2. Ice & Water Shield: A self-adhering waterproof membrane installed at the most vulnerable areas of the roof—the eaves, valleys, and around penetrations—to prevent leaks from ice dams and wind-driven rain.
3. Underlayment: This is the layer of material (traditional felt or modern synthetic) that covers the entire roof deck, acting as a secondary barrier against moisture.
4. Starter Strips: Specialized shingles installed at the eaves and rakes (the edges of the roof) that provide a crucial wind-resistant seal for the first course of shingles.
5. Shingles or Metal Panels: The primary, outermost layer that sheds water and provides protection and curb appeal.
6. Flashing: Pieces of metal installed anywhere the roof plane is interrupted (chimneys, vents, skylights, walls). Properly installed flashing is the single most critical element in preventing leaks.
7. Ventilation: A balanced system of intake vents (at the soffits or eaves) and exhaust vents (at the ridge or peak) that allows air to circulate through the attic. This prevents heat and moisture buildup, which can destroy shingles from the inside out and drive up energy costs.
8. Ridge Cap Shingles: Thicker shingles designed specifically to cover the peak (ridge) of the roof, providing a finished look and critical protection at the highest point.

A Closer Look at Roofing Materials

The choice of roofing material significantly impacts your roof’s lifespan, appearance, and performance. We help homeowners in Winston-Salem and surrounding areas select the ideal material for their specific situation and budget.

Asphalt shingles remain the most popular choice in North America. They are affordable, come in a vast array of colors, and are suitable for most home styles. Within this category, there are two main types:

• 3-Tab Shingles: The most basic and affordable option, consisting of a single flat layer. They have a flat appearance and typically have lower wind ratings and a shorter lifespan (around 15-20 years).
• Architectural (or Dimensional) Shingles: The most common choice today. They are made with multiple laminated layers, creating a thicker, more durable shingle with a textured, dimensional look that mimics wood shakes. They have higher wind ratings, a longer lifespan (25-30 years or more), and offer a much more attractive appearance. We are experts in Shingle Roof Replacement NC using high-quality architectural shingles.

Metal roofing is a fantastic long-term investment known for superior durability, fire resistance, and energy efficiency. A quality metal roof can last 50 years or more. The two most common types are:

• Standing Seam Metal Roof: Considered the premium choice, this system uses long vertical panels with raised, interlocking seams. The fasteners are concealed, which eliminates thousands of potential leak points and creates a sleek, modern aesthetic. The design allows the metal to expand and contract with temperature changes without stress.
• Screw-Down (Exposed Fastener) Panels: A more economical metal option, often seen on barns or rustic-style homes. The panels overlap and are fastened directly through the face of the metal into the roof deck. While durable, the thousands of exposed, gasketed screws can be potential failure points over time and may require periodic maintenance. If you’re searching for Local Metal Roofers Near Me to install either system, we have the specialized expertise you need.

According to InterNACHI, the lifespan of different materials varies dramatically. While asphalt shingles typically last around 20 years and metal roofs about 50 years, premium materials like slate, clay, concrete, and copper can last a lifetime—100 years or more. We guide our clients in choosing the Best Roofing Materials for Winston Salem Homes, considering our local climate, your home’s style, and your budget.

Financing Your Roofing Project

A new roof is a significant but necessary investment. We understand that the cost can be a concern, which is why many professional companies offer financing options to make the project more manageable.

• Contractor-Offered Financing: Many roofers partner with financial institutions to offer flexible payment plans. These can include competitive interest rates or promotional periods with 0% financing, allowing you to break down a large cost into predictable monthly payments.
• Home Equity Loans/Lines of Credit (HELOC): If you have equity in your home, a HELOC from your bank can be an excellent option for funding home improvements, often with lower interest rates than other loan types.
• Personal Loans: A personal loan from a bank or credit union is another avenue, though interest rates may be higher.
• Insurance Claims: If your roof replacement is necessary due to storm damage, your homeowner’s insurance policy is your primary source of funding. A reputable roofer will have experience working with insurance adjusters to ensure all damage is documented and the scope of work is approved, helping you navigate the claims process.

When considering any financing, review the terms carefully. Our goal is to ensure you get the quality roof you need without undue financial stress. We offer options to Elevate Your Roofing Experience with Finance Options designed to fit different budgets. Delaying a necessary roof replacement almost always leads to more extensive and expensive damage later on, making financing a smart choice to protect your home and your wallet in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hiring a Roofer

We often hear similar questions from homeowners searching for a professional roofing company near me. Here are some of the most common ones, answered to help you make informed decisions.

How long does a roof typically last, and what factors affect its lifespan?

A roof’s lifespan depends heavily on the material. A standard architectural asphalt shingle roof lasts 25-30 years, while a basic 3-tab shingle may only last 15-20 years. Metal roofs can last 50 years or more, and premium materials like slate and tile can last over 100 years. Key factors influencing longevity include: the quality of the original installation, proper attic ventilation (this is critical), local climate (sun exposure, hail), and how consistently maintenance is performed. Regular inspections and prompt repairs are the best way to maximize your roof’s life. For more local advice, see our Roof Leaks in Winston Salem: Prevention Tips for Homeowners.

Does a new roof increase my home’s value?

Yes, absolutely. A new roof is a major selling point that significantly boosts curb appeal and signals to buyers that the home is well-maintained and protected. According to the Remodeling Impact report from the National Association of Realtors, a new roof has an excellent return on investment (ROI), with homeowners recovering as much as 107% of the project’s cost at resale. It provides critical peace of mind to potential buyers, making your home far more attractive on the market.

What should I do if my roof is damaged by a storm?

If a storm damages your roof, act quickly but safely:

1. Prioritize Safety: Stay off the roof. Be aware of any hazards on the ground like downed power lines or unstable tree limbs.
2. Document Damage: From the ground, take clear photos and videos of all visible damage (missing shingles, dents in gutters, etc.) for your insurance claim.
3. Call Your Insurer: Report the damage immediately to start the claims process and get a claim number.
4. Mitigate Further Damage: If there is active leaking, a professional roofer can perform temporary measures like tarping to prevent further water intrusion. Your insurance policy requires you to do this.
5. Contact a Reputable Roofer: Call a professional for a thorough inspection. An experienced contractor can identify all storm-related damage (including subtle hail hits), meet with your insurance adjuster on-site, and ensure a fair and complete assessment for your claim.

How long will a full roof replacement take?

For an average-sized home, a full roof replacement typically takes 2 to 4 days, weather permitting. Day 1 usually involves delivering materials and preparing the site, followed by the tear-off of the old roof and inspection of the decking. Days 2 and 3 are for installing the new roofing system. The final day is dedicated to finishing touches, final inspection, and a thorough cleanup of your property.

What do I need to do to prepare my home for a new roof?

A professional roofer will handle most of the prep, but you can help by:

• Moving cars out of the driveway and away from the house.
• Clearing patios, decks, and lawn areas near the house of furniture, grills, and potted plants.
• The process creates vibrations, so take down any fragile pictures or decorations from walls and shelves.
• Covering items stored in the attic with plastic or old sheets to protect them from dust and small debris that may fall through the roof decking.

Can you just install a new roof over my existing shingles?

While some building codes allow for a second layer of shingles (a “roof-over”), it is almost never recommended by professional roofers. A roof-over prevents the contractor from inspecting the roof decking for rot or damage, adds significant weight to your home’s structure, and traps heat, which can drastically shorten the life of the new shingles. Most importantly, installing a new roof over an old one will void the manufacturer’s warranty for the new materials. A complete tear-off is always the best practice for a quality, long-lasting roof.

Conclusion

Finding the right professional roofing company near me is a process of careful research and vetting. By identifying your needs, finding local contractors, verifying their credentials, and understanding your options, you can make a confident decision that protects your home for years to come.

Hiring a true professional is an investment in lasting protection and peace of mind. A quality roof, installed by an experienced team, keeps your family safe, improves curb appeal, and increases your home’s value.

At Smithrock Roofing, we are your neighbors, committed to protecting homes in Winston-Salem, King, Clemmons, Lewisville, Pilot Mountain, East Bend, Mt. Airy, Kernersville, Siloam, Danbury, High Point, Trinity, Pfafftown, Tobaccoville, Greensboro, Walnut Cove, Belews Creek, Rural Hall, Pinnacle, Bethania, Advance, Wallburg, Horneytown, Union Cross, and Midway, NC. We offer comprehensive services, from roofing and seamless gutters to durable siding and high-quality window replacement.

Ready to take the next step? Contact Us today for a free, no-obligation inspection and estimate. Let’s work together to protect what matters most.