Your roof is arguably the most important part of your home. It’s the shield that protects you, your family, and all your belongings from Asheville’s unpredictable weather—from scorching summer sun to those surprise mountain snowfalls. So when it’s time for a repair or a full replacement, the pressure to find the right roofing company in Asheville can feel immense.
Choosing the wrong roofer can lead to a world of headaches: leaky ceilings, shoddy work that needs re-doing in a few years, and a lighter wallet for all the wrong reasons. But don’t worry. Finding a trustworthy, skilled, and reliable roofing professional isn’t about luck; it’s about knowing what to look for. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to help you hire a roofer with confidence, ensuring your home is in the best possible hands.
First Steps: Where to Begin Your Search
Before you even start calling for quotes, a little prep work goes a long way. The initial search phase is about gathering a list of potential candidates, not making a final decision.
Start by asking for recommendations from people you trust. Friends, family, or neighbors in the Asheville area who have recently had roof work done can provide honest, firsthand accounts of their experiences.
Beyond personal referrals, a quick online search for “roofing company Asheville” will give you a list of local businesses. Look at their websites and online reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pay attention to the overall sentiment. A few negative reviews aren’t necessarily a dealbreaker (it’s impossible to please everyone), but a consistent pattern of complaints about the same issues should raise a red flag.
Key Qualities of a Top-Notch Roofing Company
Once you have a shortlist of three to five companies, it’s time to dig deeper. A great roofing company is more than just a crew with shingles and a nail gun. They are professionals who stand behind their work. Here’s what you should verify for every single company on your list.
1. Proper Licensing and Insurance
This is non-negotiable. A legitimate roofing company must be fully licensed to operate in North Carolina and carry two critical types of insurance:
- Liability Insurance: This protects your property. If a roofer accidentally damages your siding, windows, or landscaping during the project, their liability insurance will cover the costs.
- Worker’s Compensation: This protects you from being held liable if a worker is injured on your property. Without it, you could be facing a lawsuit and significant medical bills.
Don’t just take their word for it. Ask for proof of their license and insurance certificates and verify that they are current.
2. Local Experience and a Physical Address
Why does hiring a local company matter? A roofing company in Asheville will have crucial experience with local building codes, permit requirements, and the specific weather challenges our region faces. They understand which materials hold up best against the mountain climate.
A company with a physical office in or near Asheville is also a sign of stability and commitment to the community. It means they aren’t a “storm chaser”—an out-of-town company that shows up after a big storm, does quick, often low-quality work, and then disappears, leaving you with no recourse if problems arise.
3. A Detailed, Written Estimate
Never accept a quote scribbled on the back of a business card. A professional roofing company will provide a detailed, written proposal that breaks down all the costs. This document should include:
- The total cost of the project
- Types of materials to be used (shingles, underlayment, flashing, etc.)
- An estimated project timeline (start and end dates)
- Payment terms and schedule
- Details on who is responsible for cleanup and debris removal
- Information about their warranty on both materials and workmanship
Review each estimate carefully. A suspiciously low bid can be tempting, but it often indicates that the company is cutting corners, using subpar materials, or is not properly insured.
4. Solid Warranties
A quality roofer will stand by their work. There are two types of warranties you need to ask about. First is the manufacturer’s warranty, which covers the materials themselves against defects. Second, and just as important, is the workmanship warranty provided by the roofing company. This covers any errors in the installation process. A reputable company will offer a solid workmanship warranty, giving you peace of mind that they’ll be there to fix any issues that pop up after the job is done.
Your Final Decision
After you’ve gathered your quotes and verified each company’s credentials, it’s time to make a choice. While price is a factor, it shouldn’t be the only one. Consider the company’s professionalism, communication style, and the overall confidence you have in their ability to do the job right. Did they answer your questions clearly? Did they seem patient and respectful? Trust your gut.
Choosing a roofer is a major decision for any homeowner. By doing your homework and prioritizing quality and reliability, you can protect your investment and ensure your roof will keep your home safe and dry for many years to come.
