When you’re looking to hire a roofing and gutter service provider, it can be hard to know who to go with. There are tons of options out there, but only a few that will actually look out for your best interests. The first thing you should do when hiring someone to work on your home’s exterior is asked around and see what people recommend.
Roofing and gutter services are often one of the more expensive home repairs you’ll have to face, but it’s not the only time you’ll have to shell out big bucks for your house. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to save money on these two specific types of home repairs so you won’t have to eat into your savings account or take out loans. Here are ten ways to save money on your roofing and gutter services in no particular order.
Hire Licensed Contractors
It is important when hiring a contractor that you make sure they are licensed. This way, if something goes wrong with the installation or their workmanship, you will have some type of recourse for compensation. Nowadays most reputable roofers carry some type of liability insurance that can cover damage during the installation process as well as replacement costs in the event that your roof needs to be repaired or replaced in the future.
Lastly, it is worth mentioning that homeowners‘ insurance policies often include coverage for problems related to your roof. So even if you hire a contractor, the homeowner’s policy may help provide compensation in case there is an accident or problem with your roof after it has been installed.
Review Licenses Online
Most states require contractors of any kind to have a license. You can see if your state requires one before hiring someone for your roofing or gutter service by reviewing the state’s website. You can also verify a contractor’s license with the local city, county, or regional authority that oversees it.
A licensed contractor is more likely to give you quality workmanship than an unlicensed one who might take shortcuts to save money. Look for licenses prominently displayed in their office or on their vehicles as well.
When looking at bids from different contractors, be sure to ask how long they’ve been in business and how many jobs they’ve completed successfully. An experienced contractor will know what they’re doing and avoid mistakes while cutting corners less often than someone just starting out.
Get Multiple Quotes
One way you can save money on your home’s roofing and gutter services is by getting multiple quotes. A lot of contractors will offer a free estimate, so make sure you take advantage of that. And if possible, try to get more than one quote from the same company to compare apples to apples. Another way is by shopping around for materials. You’ll be surprised how much money you can save just by comparing prices at different stores or websites before you purchase anything.
If you’re buying new gutters, window screens, or storm windows, shop around for sales and look into sites where they often have discounts. Also, consider doing some repair work yourself. Replacing those shingles on your own might sound daunting, but there are lots of tutorials online that show you step-by-step instructions with pictures which makes it pretty easy.
Shop Around for Discounts
When it comes to roofing, the quality of materials used is directly related to the cost. With that in mind, you may want to consider buying your own materials for a new roof or having your existing roof repaired before purchasing a new one. Doing this can save you about 50% off the cost of a new roof.
Your contractor should also be willing to offer discounts for larger jobs because they will earn more profit from a single job than they would from many smaller jobs. To ensure that your contractors are providing fair pricing, make sure you take time to ask them about any warranties or guarantees they provide. You may also want to inquire if they have worked with other customers who have had trouble with their roofs in the past and how long ago those problems occurred.
Negotiate a Better Deal
There are plenty of ways you can try to save money on your roofing or gutter services. For example, try negotiating a better deal with the company that does your work. There may be some room for price negotiation depending on the size of the job, whether it is a commercial or residential customer, and what type of work is needed. It’s also worth checking online for better deals.
If you have an emergency situation, contact someone who offers 24-hour service because they might be able to come out at night or on weekends when prices are lower. Finally, if you’ve been in business for a long time, find out if there is any loyalty pricing available that could lower the cost of your roofing or gutter work.
Consider Payment Options
If you have an emergency leak, it is best to contact a roofer as soon as possible. However, if you have a leak that is not in danger of causing any more damage, you might consider waiting until your next scheduled maintenance visit. For example, if your home needs its guttering cleaned, you can wait until the next time they come out for their regular inspection and cleaning.
If there are repairs needed, you will know what those repairs are before spending money on them. The same applies to roofing; if there is a minor issue with the roof that does not need immediate attention, call for a general inspection before having any work done. You will get an idea of what the problem could be and how much it will cost before starting any repairs or hiring new contractors.
Save With Recurring Payments
Many roofers and gutter companies offer a discount for paying in advance. Instead of making monthly payments, you can pay the entire sum upfront. Another option is to ask about other discounts that might be available. For example, some companies offer 10% off if you prepay for two years or 20% off if you prepay for five years. Some also offer discounts if you make a down payment.
If you plan to stay, but for more than five years, this could be a good option. The best way to save money on your roofing and gutter services is by being proactive with your contractor about any possible discounts before work starts.
Prepare Your Home Before Repairs
Before any repairs can be made, the roof needs to be in good condition. That means it is free of any leaks, watermarks, and other problems that may lead to further damage. If you want your roof repaired or replaced, make sure you take these steps before calling a contractor:
1. Clear away anything that could pose a problem during the work
2. Clean out gutters and downspouts
3. Check for loose shingles or tiles
4. Inspect valleys and soffits for any standing water
5. Look for missing nails or screws
6. Ensure ventilation systems are clean
7. Make sure there are no snow-blocking vents
8. Vacuum around vents
Review Materials Used by the Contractor
A contractor might offer a number of different materials for roofs, gutters, windows, or doors. Talk to the contractor about what is available and then decide which option is best for you. If your budget is tight, it might be better to pay more upfront for an item that will save you money in the long term. You can also talk with the contractor about what you want them to do with your old roofing or gutters.
Ask contractors to give you estimates based on the type of material they plan to use. If you have the cash saved up, try paying upfront for materials instead of financing them.
Choose Low-Maintenance Materials
One of the best ways to save money on your roofing and gutter services is by choosing materials that are low-maintenance. Metal roofs, for example, don’t need much upkeep. And if you’re willing to get dirty with them, asphalt shingles can last up to 20 years with only occasional maintenance. On top of saving, your money in the long run, these options also reduce the labor cost associated with roofing and gutter services.
Labor is one of the most expensive aspects of any home improvement project, so anything you can do to cut back on it will help make your investment more affordable. Low-maintenance materials, such as metal or asphalt shingles, allow homeowners to spend less time maintaining their homes while still enjoying all the benefits of traditional roofing materials.
