Commercial Roofers construct or repair roofs of business structures. They offer specialized expertise, faster turnaround times, cost-effective pricing and warranty services.
They work with business owners, commercial builders, engineering firms or roofing consultants. They also bid for a job on what are called tenders or public lists of roofing contractors.
When looking for a commercial roofer, it’s important to find one with extensive experience in your specific roofing type. You’ll want to ask them about the types of projects they’ve completed, and what their process is for completing a project. It’s also a good idea to ask for references. These will help you determine if the roofer is a good fit for your job.
You can also check with local governments to see what, if any, licensing requirements are in place for commercial roofing. For example, in New York state, it is not required to be licensed as a roofer, but you will need to have insurance to perform roofing work on commercial buildings. If you have a business, you will need to carry general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. In addition, the roofer will need to have a bond if they are working on a public job, such as a school or church.
Another qualification that commercial roofers need to have is the ability to read blueprints and understand construction codes. This is important because it allows them to interpret specifications and ensure that their roofing work is up to code. Moreover, it can save them time and money by not having to rework or redo the roof after it’s installed.
Aside from these skills, commercial roofers need to have physical stamina because the job involves a lot of climbing and walking. This is because roofers are working on the rooftops of commercial establishments, which are often several stories high. They also need to be able to work in different weather conditions.
Additionally, commercial roofers should have a strong work ethic and be punctual. Many of these jobs have tight deadlines, and it’s crucial that the roofer can meet them. This is because commercial jobs tend to be bigger than residential ones, and any snag in the process can put the whole project back by weeks or even months. If the roofer can’t meet these deadlines, they may start losing bids to competitors. To avoid this, make sure the contractor provides a detailed scope of work in their proposal.
Experience
Roofers are responsible for protecting the safety and security of business occupants. They also provide maintenance services to commercial properties and inspect the roof to identify issues. A professional commercial roofer will have a good understanding of the construction of different roofing materials and can install a variety of types of roofs. They can also work with a wide range of budgets and are skilled at negotiating contracts.
Roof installation is a demanding job that requires physical strength and a tolerance for working on heights. A commercial roofer may be required to lift objects weighing up to 50 pounds and can remain confined in awkward positions for long periods of time. In addition, a commercial roofer is required to pass regular drug tests and undergo a background check.
Experienced commercial roofers will have a proven track record of quality workmanship. They will be able to provide you with references from previous customers who can vouch for their work. You can even ask for photos of their past projects to help you determine if they are the right fit for your project.
Commercial roofing involves a more complex process than residential roofing. These contractors are familiar with building codes and regulations, which are critical to ensuring the longevity of your roof. A competent contractor will ensure that all work meets or exceeds these guidelines.
Unlike residential roofs, commercial roofs are often flat rather than sloped. This makes them more difficult to maintain, as water and debris can easily pool on the roof. A professional commercial roofer will know how to deal with these issues and will provide you with a warranty on their work.
When comparing bids, make sure each commercial roofer provides a detailed scope of work for their proposal. This will allow you to compare apples-to-apples and ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.
A professional commercial roofer will have experience working on a variety of roofing systems, including single-ply membranes, TPO and EPDM. They will also have knowledge of various metal roof systems, including torch down, corrugated metal and standing seam. They will be able to fabricate and install PVC facial, rake and capping systems and use heat welding techniques to join pieces together.
Insurance
There are a number of insurance coverages that commercial roofers can buy to protect themselves and their businesses. For example, general liability insurance can help cover the cost of repairs or settlements if a customer or third party is injured by your business activities. Roofers also need workers’ compensation insurance to pay for medical treatment and other expenses if an employee is hurt on the job. You might also want to consider commercial umbrella insurance, which is a type of excess insurance that goes above and beyond your normal policy limits in the event you are sued for an amount greater than your current coverage levels.
Depending on the size of your roofing company and the types of insurance you choose, your premium costs will vary. Some of the pricing factors that are used to determine your rates include: the total amount of coverage you select, your business location, the number of employees and your history of claims. The amount of deductible you choose and the type of work your company does can also impact your rate.
If you use power tools or other equipment that creates a fire hazard, for example, this might increase your rate. In addition, the type of vehicle you use to transport your equipment and materials also impacts your rates. Your insurance agent can help you decide on the level of coverage that is right for your roofing business.
Some other insurance coverages that you might consider include:
Errors and omissions (professional liability) insurance: This covers the cost of your legal defense if someone accuses you of doing shoddy work. For example, if a client sues you because you accidentally forget to replace an important vent or install a skylight correctly, this insurance type can help pay for your legal fees.
Construction insurance: This policy covers your building and the materials you have in it. It can also cover your income if you need to temporarily close your business due to an emergency or natural disaster.
Some smaller roofing companies may be able to bundle their general liability, property and workers’ compensation policies into one business owners policy (BOP). This can save you money on your premiums.
References
If you’re evaluating multiple roofing contractors for your project, be sure to ask each of them to provide references from previous clients. This will give you valuable insight into the contractor’s work quality and customer service skills. Additionally, it will help you avoid scams from untrustworthy contractors. Here are some of the key questions to ask a roofer’s references:
What Kind of Roof did They Replace or Repair?
Different types of roofing require specific materials. For example, commercial roofers need to use materials that can withstand heavy loads and varying temperatures. Ask the roofers’ references what materials they used on their projects and how satisfied they were with them.
Did They Complete the Job On Time?
The longer a roof replacement or repair takes, the more money you’ll have to spend and the more disruptions you’ll face in your daily routine. Make sure to find out if the roofer completed their work on time and how they handled any unforeseen delays.
Did They Keep the Work Area Clean?
One of the most important aspects of any construction project is keeping the work area clean. The last thing you want is trash or nails lying around your yard or in your car after the roofers leave. Ask the references if they noticed any debris or trash left behind by the roofers and how they handled it.
Would You Hire Them Again?
The final question you should ask a roofer’s references is whether they would hire them again for future projects. This can give you an idea of how satisfied they were with the contractor’s services and how confident they were in their abilities.
Choosing the right commercial roofers is essential for your building or business. A reliable contractor will ensure that your new roof is high-quality, durable and aesthetically pleasing. They will also guarantee the work and provide a warranty for any repairs or replacements. By asking the right questions, you can be certain that you’re hiring the best roofers for your project.
