Is it time for a new roof for your Kansas City home? Have you been searching for a local roofer for a while now? Do you have your estimates and made a decision? All that’s great. However, before you sign on the dotted line to have your roof replaced or repaired, you need to ensure you look at and read your roofing contract very carefully. If you need some help, you’re in luck. Here you can find out what you need to look for on your roofing contract.

Make Sure the Contract Includes All the Important Details

You need to make sure the roofing estimate you get is detailed. If all it says is that the roofer is going to replace the existing roof with shingles, flashing, and a new underlayment, you may be in trouble. You need to make sure much more information is included.

Some of the things you need to look for on your roofing contract include:

  • Total number of roofing layers to strip. Some roofs have just one or two shingle layers. Others have up to three. While this is a subtle difference, it can result in a cost difference in your contract.
  • Flashing installation: The estimate should detail if new flashing is to be installed. This process is time consuming, but important. Old flashings are not designed to integrate with new shingles, they will also wear out faster than the remainder of the roof if it isn’t swapped at the same time.
  • Application of water and ice shields in the roof valleys: The valleys (where the two roof planes meet) should be sealed properly to make sure the water is unable to penetrate the roof deck underneath. Make sure your contract includes specific information about the type of water and ice shield your roofer is going to use.
  • Installation of a metal or drip edge: A metal or drip edge needs to be put under the shingles where they come off of the roof, which helps to direct water away. There are some less reputable roofing companies that won’t install the metal or drip edge unless the homeowner asks for it specifically.
  • The type of underlayment used: It’s a good idea to find out if your roofer is planning to use synthetic underlayment, as most of these don’t breathe. If moisture is trapped underneath it, it can’t dry, leading to mold issues down the road.
  • Shingle brand and type: It’s important for your roofer to specify the type and brand of shingles they are going to use.
  • Number of nails being used: It’s important for your roofer to use a minimum of four nails; however, six may needed if your roof is sloped or if you live in a high wind area.

Call a Professional for Help

If you want to ensure your roofing contractor is honest and that you are getting a professionally installed roof for your home, then make sure to contact the professionals. We can ensure you get the quality results you need and deserve!