Hailstorms can be one of the most destructive natural phenomena. Especially when it comes to the different materials that your roof can be constructed with. Hail can cause significant damage to homes, buildings, and vehicles, and your roofing system is usually the first line of defense.

Therefore, if you live or work on the Front Range of Colorado, it’s crucial to choose a roofing material that can withstand hail damage and the high winds we have been having recently.

Three popular roofing materials are known for their durability against hail damage:

Architectural shingles, Concrete tile, and Metal roofing systems.

In this article, we will compare the pros and cons of each material to determine which one is better at resisting hail damage.

Architectural Shingles

Architectural shingles, also known as dimensional shingles, are composed of asphalt and fiberglass layers. These shingles are thicker and more durable than traditional three-tab shingles, making them better at resisting hail damage. There is a shingle known as a Class 4 IR (impact resistant) shingle that is replacing most homes for shingle roofs these days. The technology of some of the shingle manufacturers is getting better and better all the time.

• Cost Perspective: Architectural shingles are the most affordable option of the three roofing materials. The cost per square foot is relatively low, making it an attractive option for homeowners on a budget.
• Effect on Home Resale Value: Although not the most high-end option, architectural shingles have a broad appeal, making them a good choice for resale value. Additionally, they come in a variety of colors and textures, allowing homeowners to customize their roof to match their home’s aesthetic.
• Longevity: Architectural shingles typically have a lifespan of 20-30 years. However, their longevity can be affected by the severity of weather conditions in the area. In areas with frequent hailstorms, homeowners may need to replace their shingles more frequently. The average lifespan if not damaged by a storm is around 15 to 25 years here on the Front Range.

Pros:

• Most affordable option among the three
• Wide variety of colors and textures to choose from
• Relatively easy to install
• Can be a good option for homes with a steep roof pitch

Cons:

• Lifespan of 15-25 years is shorter than concrete tile or metal roofing systems
• Not as durable as concrete tile or metal roofing systems
• Not as energy efficient as metal roofing systems

NOTE: Ask your Roofing Contractor for a Class 4 IR Shingle the next time you are replacing your shingled roof.

Concrete or Clay Tile

Concrete/Clay tile roofing systems are made of a mixture of sand, cement, and water. The tiles come in a variety of shapes, colors, and textures, making them an attractive option for homeowners looking for a unique and stylish roof.

• Cost Perspective: Tiles are more expensive than architectural shingles, making them a less attractive option for homeowners on a budget. However, they can last significantly longer than shingles, potentially making them a more cost-effective option in the long run.
• Effect on Home Resale Value: Tile roofs have a high-end look and can add value to a home. They have a unique aesthetic that can be a selling point for potential buyers.
• Longevity: Tile roofs can last up to 50 years or more, making them one of the longest-lasting roofing materials. They are also more resistant to hail damage than architectural shingles, making them an excellent option for homeowners in areas prone to severe weather.

Pros:

• Highly durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions, including hailstorms
• Long lifespan of 50 years or more
• Variety of colors and shapes available to create a unique and stylish look
• Fire-resistant and energy-efficient

Cons:

• More expensive than architectural shingles
• Heavy, so the roof structure may need to be reinforced
• Requires professional installation, which can be costly
• More difficult to repair than other roofing materials

Note on Tile Roofing systems: Tiles can and do crack which can cause issues with water damage. Tile manufacturing company will discontinue them over time which will make it hard to get replacement tiles in the future. Make sure that once your roof is finished, you have about 20-25 regular tiles and 15-20 ridge tiles in storage. If you don’t, your long-lasting roof might just become obsolete because there are no tiles to match it.

Metal Roofing Systems

Metal roofing systems are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners due to their durability and energy efficiency. They come in a variety of materials, including aluminum, steel, and copper.

• Cost Perspective: Metal roofing systems are the most expensive option of the three materials. However, they are incredibly durable and require minimal maintenance, potentially making them a cost-effective option in the long run.
• Effect on Home Resale Value: Metal roofs have a modern and sleek look that can add value to a home. They are also an eco-friendly option, which is becoming increasingly important to potential buyers. There are different levels of metal roofing systems. A copper roof looks wonderful and is extremely expensive. Standing Seam is a wonderful architectural choice too.
• Longevity: Metal roofs can last up to 50 years or more, making them an excellent long-term investment. They are also highly resistant to hail damage, making them an attractive option for homeowners in areas prone to severe weather. NOTE: They do dent in a large hail storm. Make sure you have the proper replacement coverage on your roof if there is big hail.

Pros:

• Extremely durable and can last up to 50 years or more
• Highly resistant to hail damage and other extreme weather conditions
• Energy-efficient and can help reduce heating and cooling costs
• Low maintenance and easy to clean

Cons:

• Most expensive option among the three
• Can be noisy during heavy rain or hail
• Requires professional installation, which can be costly
• Limited color options compared to other roofing materials

Conclusion

Overall, each roofing material has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Homeowners should consider their budget, aesthetic preferences, and the climate of their area before making a solid informed decision.

• Architectural shingles are the most affordable option, but may not be as durable as concrete tile or metal roofing systems.
• Concrete tile is highly durable and long-lasting, but can be more expensive and require professional installation.
• Metal roofing systems are extremely durable and energy-efficient, but are the most expensive option and have limited color options.

It’s your choice and in the end… whatever you choose will look beautiful on your home.

Because of all the wind storms and hail storms that we have here locally, shingle roofs can take a beating. Here are some tips that will help you get more years out of the shingles up on your roof.

Asphalt architectural shingles are the most popular and affordable roofing option for homeowners in Colorado. They offer an attractive and durable roofing solution that can withstand the harsh weather conditions that are common in the Front Range. However, many homeowners wonder just how long an architectural shingle roof will last on the Front Range, given the frequent wind and hail storms.

The lifespan of an architectural shingle roof depends on a variety of factors, including the quality and brand of the shingles, the installation expertise, and the overall climate over the years the shingles are up on the roof. On average, an architectural shingle roof can last anywhere from 15 to 25 years, but this lifespan can vary depending on the specific conditions of the Front Range.

One of the primary concerns for homeowners in Colorado is the frequent wind and hail storms.

Wind can cause damage to shingles by ripping them or lifting them up and breaking the seal that holds them in place. Hail, on the other hand, can cause dents and cracks in shingles, which can lead to leaks and other types of damage as your roof ages.

To combat these issues, many manufacturers have developed shingles specifically designed to withstand high winds and hail. These shingles are often referred to as Class 3 and Class 4 IR (impact-resistant) shingles and are rated by their ability to withstand impact from hailstones of various sizes and hardness. Homeowners in the Front Range may want to consider using these types of shingles to help protect their roof from damage. Unless a client requests a shingle other than a Class 4 or Class 3 shingle, we always recommend putting them on when a roof is being redone.

In addition to using impact-resistant shingles, homeowners can also take other steps to protect their roofs from wind and hail damage.

One important step is to ensure that the shingles are installed properly.

Shingles that are not properly installed or even were installed when it was too cold or in extreme weather conditions can be more susceptible to damage from wind and hail. Homeowners should work with a reputable roofing contractor who has experience installing architectural shingles up and down the Front Range.

Another important factor to consider is the climate on the Front Range.

Colorado has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. This can cause significant temperature fluctuations, which can lead to the expansion and contraction of shingles. Over time, this can cause the shingles to crack and deteriorate. Especially if they have any previous damage. The slightest bit of damage can turn into an issue as they age and go through their expansion and contraction cycles.

To combat this issue, homeowners should choose shingles that are designed to withstand extreme temperatures. Many manufacturers offer shingles that are specifically designed for use in hot and cold climates. These shingles are often made from materials that can expand and contract without cracking or deteriorating. This is a newer shingle technology. Speak to your local Roofing expert for a recommendation.

Finally, it’s important for homeowners to maintain their roofs properly to ensure they last as long as possible.

Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify and address issues before they become more serious. Homeowners should also ensure that their gutters are clean and free from debris, as clogged gutters can cause water to back up under the shingles, leading to leaks and other types of damage.

Ensuring the longevity of your architectural shingle roof on the Front Range of Colorado requires some effort and attention.

Here are the 7 best things that homeowners can do to ensure that their roof has as long a lifespan as possible:

1. Regular Inspections: Regular inspections every few years can be crucial to detect any damage, leaks or other issues. A professional inspection every 3 to 5 years is highly recommended to identify any issues before they become bigger and more expensive to fix. A good Roofing Contractor can spot a potential issue before it becomes a major issue.
2. Clean Gutters: Clean gutters are very important for the health of your roof. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up, which can lead to leaks and ice damming and other types of damage if they are not maintained regularly. It is recommended to clean the gutters at least twice a year, especially in the fall after the leaves have fallen.
3. Trim Trees: Overhanging branches can damage your roof, especially during high winds and storms. Trim any trees that are too close to your roof to avoid the risk of damage.
4. Proper Ventilation: Proper ventilation is important to maintain the integrity of the shingle. Poor ventilation can cause unseen moisture buildup, which can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. We think of Colorado as having low humidity, but mold can still happen. Improper ventilation can also cause shingles to curl, harden and deteriorate faster. Make sure that your attic has proper ventilation to avoid these issues.
5. Use High-Quality Materials: The quality of the shingles and other materials used during installation can greatly impact the lifespan of your roof. Always choose high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity. We here at Denny’s Roofing NEVER skimp when it comes to the quality of the materials that we use when installing a new roof. It is just not worth the savings of a few bucks when the integrity of your Roof is at stake. The risk as your roof ages is just not worth it.
6. Repair Storm Damage Promptly: If any damage is detected during inspection, it is important to repair it as soon as possible. Delaying repairs can lead to bigger and more expensive issues in the future. It’s also important to check on the areas of possible penetration on a roof when inspecting too. Reapplying caulking to seams and exposed nail heads can help ensure the integrity of your roof.
7. Hire a Professional Contractor: A reputable roofing contractor with experience in installing and maintaining architectural shingle roofs in the Front Range can ensure that your roof is installed correctly and maintained properly. Work with a professional contractor like Denny’s Roofing to ensure that your roof is in good hands.

In summary, regular inspections, clean gutters, trimmed trees, proper ventilation, use of high-quality materials, prompt repairs, and working with a professional roofing contractor are some of the best things that homeowners can do to ensure that their architectural shingle roof lasts 15 to 25 years. With the proper care and attention, your roof can withstand the harsh weather conditions of the Front Range of Colorado and provide you with peace of mind for years to come.

When a well-designed and well-maintained gutter system is installed on a home or business, it should last for decades if they are not damaged in a storm, ice damming or in high winds. That said, there will come a time when even the best maintained gutters will need to be replaced because they have “aged-out” and have reached their life expectancy.

This article will give you a heads up on what to look for when an “out of the norm” situation occurs to your gutters so that you can take care of it as soon as you notice it – so that additional damage does not happen. One of the joys of being a “homeowner.”

Here are 13 reasons you might need to fix or replace your gutter system.

1) CLOGGED/BLOCKED GUTTERS – When gutters are catching the rain and snow as it comes off your roof, that means it is also catching EVERYTHING else that has fallen up on the roof. And it will ALL end-up in the gutters. Organic matter such as leaves, pine needles, twigs, branches, aggregate and dirt coming off your roof, or even blowing trash can build up over time or even just a season if you don’t keep them clear and clean. And rotting organic material can form a thick sludge that will clog gutters and have them overflowing quickly if there is no maintenance performed on them. You can put on a “gutter guard” that will keep most of the leaves and twigs from ending up in the gutters. And honestly, you have to be careful with “gutter guards” because when winter rolls around, gutter guards can possibly lead to ice damming and icicles forming and falling off the gutters, which can be a hazard. So, if you have gutter guards put on, be careful and be aware.

2) GUTTER/DOWNSPOUT LEAKS – When gutters are installed, the installer may have missed sealing a joint or a downspout hole with what we call “gutter cement.” It’s meant to seal the gutters so that you don’t have any leaks. Leaking can get behind the fascia and soffits and cause additional damage if not corrected.

3) BACK-FLOWS – Clogged gutters can also lead to overflowing or “back-flowing” gutters which can pour over the edge and defeat the purpose of having gutters. And in the winter months, those leaks can also lead to ice on the pavement which can be a huge hazard. Full gutters from clogs or having them hung improperly can also lead to ice forming in the gutters when it’s cold. That ice can expand and cause issues like pushing the gutters away from the fascia. Ice damming can form up under the shingles and cause damaging leaks. Also, convergence points of where corners meet and the system gets complicated can also be a point of issues. Have a professional look at them.

4) POORLY SLOPED GUTTERS – When gutters are installed correctly, they should have a slight slope towards the downspout drains so that when it rains, they drain properly and don’t have standing water in them after a precipitation event. If they are not sloped correctly, water will pool and when mixed with leaves, dirt and normal granule loss from your shingles, it can eventually create a blocked gutter. Not to mention that during a storm, they will not be draining properly. And standing water can pool and damage gutters over time. I’m not sure that most people realize that their gutters have a slight slope. I’ve had clients tell me that their gutters are crooked. If you are not aware of how they are hung, If you go to the front of your home, and look at them you should be able to see it. If they are not sloped, or sloped properly it will become a problem over time.

5) SAGGING GUTTERS – Gutters have traditionally been attached to your fascia and trussing beams by long and large nails that were hammered into the end of the trussing beams. Now gutters are attached with “hangers” that are placed along the gutter and screwed into the fascia to hold the weight of the gutter and the contents during a weather event. When its wintertime, and a tremendous amount of snow and water that fills your gutters, maybe there is an abundance of organic material and granule clogged in the gutters or they were not installed with enough hangers, the extra weight can cause them to sag and they can even buckle. The weight just overwhelms the existing hangers and they can fail.

6) DAMAGED GUTTERS – Gutters can be damaged for a number of reasons. They can be dented, become cracked, bent out of their original shape, they can be sagging, clogged or blocked and most likely have the seams fail and leak. Even seamless gutters have a few seams. They are limited, but they are there. All of these can cause water to pool or organic material to clog and create extra weight in the gutters. Eventually, when a ladder gets placed against them to get up on that section of your roof, they can come off their hangers and even collapse. Hopefully you as the homeowner or a professional is doing the necessary maintenance so that this does not occur. Gutters falling off your home can bring a whole slew of additional issues that you just don’t need.

7) IMPROPERLY BUILT DOWNSPOUTS – If your downspouts are built correctly, everything should be fine. There should be enough drainage around the house from the gutters and drainage should not be an issue. Sometimes downspouts need to be placed in areas where the water should be aimed at a drain when emptying on concrete or should be channeled away from the foundation of a house with an extension or “kick-out.” Downspouts can also be missing the sealant or “gutter cement” that seals around the opening at the gutter. If you are having issues with them leaking or getting clogged, have a professional look at them.

8) ICE DAMMING – When there is too much snow on top of your roof, and warm and cold days and nights, your gutters can be overwhelmed with ice damming. The snow will thaw and freeze and thaw and freeze. It will start to create hanging ice cycles and freezing up on the roof, especially at the gutter line. This can be an issue if not addressed. The ice/snow can form and push up under shingles even pulling nails up and working moisture up under the underlayment on the roof, which can cause an internal leak. Most of the time, “heat cable” placed in the gutters or zig-zagged near the eve of the roof can prevent this kind of build-up of ice. But not always. Sometimes it requires manual effort to pull the snow off the edge of the roof with a snow rake to lessen the snow load. This can be dangerous, so if you are not comfortable on a ladder, get a professional to help.

9) INCORRECT SIZED GUTTERS or DOWNSPOUTS – 5” seamless gutters and 2” by 3” downspouts are the norm when it comes to the standard size. Depending on the size of the roof and the amount of water coming off each slope, you may need to upgrade to 6” gutters and 3” by 4” downspouts. Larger roofs with multiple combining of slopes can create too much water trying to drain out of too little drainage and cause problems.

10) TOO LITTLE DRAINAGE FROM DOWNSPOUTS – Gutters are installed on the eves of the home. (The edge of the roof at the end of a slope.) Where downspouts are placed can be a challenge in certain situations because of needing to drain away from walkways, basement window wells, home foundations and more. Sometimes gutter systems are designed with too little drainage to handle the amount of rain. Here on the Front Range, we seldom see that kind of precipitation, and it can, and does occur. So, most systems are designed and built for the norm. The lack of adequate drainage can cause water to get behind the gutters and cause issues with leaks inside the home along with long term issues with fascia and soffits if they are not addressed. Call out a professional to help come up with the proper solution to inadequate drainage.

11) OLD GUTTERS – Here on the Front Range, with regular hail storms, gutters are most likely replaced from time to time but sometimes they can just age and outlast their lifespan and need to be replaced before they cause a bigger issue. We do see gutters just needing to be replaced for the reasons listed in this article above.

12) ROTTING FASCIA or SOFFITS MEANS… – When you see a rotting section of your Fascia or Soffit or you see the paint peeling on sections of them, you have water that is leaking or overflowing out of your gutters. This is a sign to deal with the issue immediately before it worsens.

13) CHANNELING WATER FLOW ON THE ROOF – Sometimes a piece of special “flashing” is needed to properly channel waterflow in and on certain sections of your roof. The roofers attempt to take care of this during the roof installation. And certain flashing is code. And depending on the design of the roof, more might be needed. This usually can only be recognized during a storm and extreme situation to show need. If you see water pouring out of your gutters at a corner or over the edge of the gutter, take video during the event and show it to a professional.

With ANY leak or overflow situation, take pictures and preferably video to show your local Roofing/Gutter professional the actual situation that you are calling them about. It would be very helpful at pinpointing the proper solution and speed up the repair process.

Let us know if we can be of any help in supporting you in fixing your situation.

In short, yes! You can certainly do roofing work during the colder months of the year.

The main concern with installing a new roof or doing repairs on an existing one is the damage that cold temperatures, snow, and ice can cause to roofing materials if they’re not properly protected. While it’s possible to do roofing work during colder times of year, it’s important to take a few extra precautions in order to ensure the job is done properly and safely.

It’s also important to be aware of the type of materials being used in roof repairs or replacements and their suitability for winter and early spring weather conditions. For example, some asphalt shingle varieties are not suitable for cold temperatures and wet conditions and won’t bond properly when exposed to ice and snow because of the adhesive on the back of the shingle. Certain shingles are not designed to be installed in temperatures that are below 50 degrees. Your roofing contractor should know the perfect shingle for colder weather.

If you have an urgent roof repair or replacement, then colder months may be a viable option depending on your climate and weather conditions. However, if you’re just looking for standard roof maintenance or minor repairs, then spring is usually the best time to do roofing work.

Should I repair or replace my roof in the colder months?

Cold weather can be difficult on your roof, and it’s important to make sure you take proper care of it. If you’re thinking about repairing or replacing your roof in the colder months, here are some reasons why that can be beneficial:

• There’s storm damage to your roof. If shingles are missing or there’s extensive water damage from ice daming, then it’s certainly worthwhile to get the repairs done as soon as possible. Cold and winter weather can cause more harm if roof damage is left unattended in the form of interior leaking.
• You don’t want to worry about late spring and summer storms interfering with your roof repair or replacement job. If you’ve ever tried to undertake a roofing project during the summer months, you know how important it is to have favorable weather conditions in order for the job to be completed on time and correctly. During winter months here on the Colorado Front Range, there tends to be fewer disruptions from storms and other inclement weather that can potentially delay your project. It’s not usual for there to be weeks when the temp is in the 50’s and even 60’s for stretches that is ideal for roofing.
• You may be able to catch potential problems before they become more serious and require further repairs in the future. Since winter and early spring offer fewer opportunities for bad weather to interfere, it’s a great time to take advantage of dry days and check your roof for any signs of damage or wear-and-tear that need to be addressed. People forget how a little roof maintenance can go a long way.
• Winter roof repair and replacement may be less expensive than during other times of the year. Since winter is a slower season for roofers, you may find that it’s easier to get an appointment or better pricing on services. Additionally, if you take care of any repairs or replacements now, you can avoid more costly problems down the road.

Cold months can be a tough time of year for roofs.

The cold weather, high winds, heavy snow, and ice can take their toll on roofing materials, leading to damage such as leaks, cracks, or even collapse in mountain regions where the snow is deep. As a homeowner, it’s important to keep an eye out for signs that your roof may need repairs or replacement during the colder months.

Some common signs that your roof may need repairs or replacement include:

• Cracked, curled, or loose shingles
• Missing flashing around chimneys and vents
• Ice dams in the gutters
• Sagging roofs and ridges
• Leaking gutters
• Leaking skylights
• Water spots on walls near the roof
• Interior leaks or stains

If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to contact a roof repair or replacement specialist as soon as possible! Here at Denny’s Roofing we are here to help.

In addition, if your roof is more than 20 years old, or you’ve experienced extensive damage due to storms, you may want to consider replacing your roof. New roofs offer increased protection from the elements and can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency too.

If you think your roof may need repairs or replacement, never hesitate to call a professional for assistance. A qualified roofing contractor can inspect the condition of your roof and provide you with solutions that fit both your budget and needs. By taking these steps, you’ll be able to protect your home and family from potential winter damage.

There are many good reasons to consider repairing or replacing your roof in the colder months, and it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance no matter what season it is. If you have any questions about roof repair or replacement during winter, be sure to contact us today!

A storm sweeps through your neighborhood and there is obvious damage to your HOA community. You and your neighbors have damage to the exterior of your buildings. The storm was strong enough to cause damage to your roof, gutters, skylights, siding, windows, painting, or even more on your HOA complex. You sit on the board of your small HOA or are an advisor that represents your apartment or condo community and everyone is wondering what to do now. Including you.

Where do you start?

“If it is hail or extreme wind damage, call a ROOFING CONTRACTOR because that will be the largest of the trades that will need to get repaired.”

Well, below are some suggestions on what to do to put things back in order.

The first thing that you should do is call a professional contractor to come out and take a look at the entire property and get them to assess the damage BEFORE calling your Insurance company. If it is hail or extreme wind damage, call a ROOFING CONTRACTOR because that will be the largest of the trades that will need to get repaired. Any good Roofing Contractor that does residential and commercial projects will handle all of the additional exterior issues too. If they don’t handle the other trades, and you would have to vet a series of sub-contractors… don’t use that Roofer. They are most likely not a Contractor. Jobbing all that out yourself will be a tremendous amount of effort and if you are sitting on the HOA board, or repair committee and not getting paid, trust us when we say, get someone that will be your Contractor and handle all the details.

If you have a known Contractor that has done work for you in the past, and you have been satisfied with them, you should be in good shape. You have worked with them in the past, you have a track record, and you have a level of trust in them. They took great care of you and did excellent work. You already know who to call. Perfect.

 If you have not already vetted a Roofing Contractor, and a storm hits, or you are not sure about the Roofer that you have used or are interested in looking for a NEW Roofing professional — keep reading.

There are several things that you can do to make sure they are going to be a good fit for your HOA.

First, ask for a referral from someone you know in the building industry if you have one.  Ask how they know them… and if they have ever worked directly with them before.

If you don’t have a good referral source, you can go online and look for a Roofer that is also a G.C. (General Contractor) and can handle ALL of the different trades that need to be completed for your job. Or at least the vast majority of them. This will save you and the HOA board a lot of busy work down the line.

Next, look for a Roofing Contractor that has an impeccable reputation online with at least 30 to 50 more excellent reviews. They don’t have to be 5-star reviews. As much as you try to make everyone happy, you can’t please everyone all the time. And if they have a few 3 or 4-star reviews, look at their response to the “less than perfect reviews” and see if they offered to make whatever happened – right. Did they work hard to please the client or right the wrong? Especially on the 1-star review. Did they apologize and take responsibility for the situation? Did they explain themselves?  Or did they make an excuse and reply to the review in a “snarky” or even worse, an angry tone?  In construction, sometimes things happen that are out of the Project Manager’s control, and it can be hard to make everyone happy.  But how they respond to adversity and criticism goes a long way. Look for a big “red flag” around how they deal with adversity.  Contractors are professional problem solvers and should have lots of patience on all fronts.

Next, look at their website to see if they have a strong presence with a website that has some actual information on it that has value. A site that they feel represents them and their company’s personality. If their words on the page are generic and none specific, they most likely will be too.

You will most likely have a “meh” experience. They will lack the passion to make sure that their jobs are done right. Their website is the front-facing representation of their company. If they are not giving offering up knowledge or pictures of work that they have done, they might not be a good fit. Remember, anyone can say they do a good job and schmooze you enough to get you to sign a contract and get you locked in.  Trust your gut on this aspect.

Ask for references that you can call and check in on their previous work.  They should be able to give you a list of people willing to sing their praises.  There is a big difference between someone doing a satisfactory or adequate job, and a company that creates excited fans.  You will be in charge of spending a LOT of money on your project.  You want someone that will make you look like a hero at the end of the work.

This is about this for a second – “companies are people wrapped in a logo.”  Ask specifically who you will be your “point of contact” and have them earn your business. It’s ok for them to jump through a few hoops to earn your trust. Meet with them a few times. Above all, pick someone that you like working with, who is a good communicator and seems to have decent values and a work ethic.  I know that sounds obvious, but you would be surprised. You will be spending a lot of time over the next few months working hand-in-hand with your contractor.  They should be responsive and professional and even-keeled and ON TIME. Someone that does what they say they are going to do when they say they are going to do it. They are professional problem solvers.

All contractors must be licensed and insured. A license means that he has the proper licensing to work on your type of property (HOA, Commercial Buildings, Apartment Complexes, Flat Roofing, Multi-Family Residential, etc.) Once you see that they have the GC license for your local, make sure that the contractor is adequately insured. It’s not out of line to ask for up-to-date paperwork.  That should not be an issue to get you. It is important that you know exactly what their insurance coverage is. You need to understand if they will cover damages to your property and any other employee liability onsite during the work. You should also ask what is the coverage for the sub-contractors and their employees. When it’s time the contractor will get a building permit to ensure that the work is being done to code with the city or locale where the work is taking place.

Next, once you have picked a few new companies to call, you know what to ask to vet them and you can also learn a lot about them and the company when they come out and take a look at the damage.

Once your Roofer gets there to assess the damage, let them walk the property, either on their own or with you, and then let them explain what THEY see that needs attention on your building, and what they think needs to be done to fix it. You will get a chance to see just how observant they are. And if you are still in the vetting process of choosing them as your Contractor, you WANT them to be extremely observant and thorough and explain things to you. It’s important to have someone that sees more than you do, so that things get done right.  They are the expert.  You should be able to depend on their expertise without you having to be the one reminding them.

Ask lots of questions to qualify your Contractor:

• Tell me about the repair/replacement process with your company.
• What is your overall production process? What is your system?
• If you use subcontractors, tell me about them.
• Do they have any possible timeline issues to complete the work?
• What types of materials/brands do you suggest that I can look into?
• What should I expect around communications with you? Who/How/Why/details?
• What warranties come with the repair/replacement of the materials and labor?

Don’t be shy.

Once they are done and have given you their field assessment, you can also ask the Contractor to explain what you can expect as the next step once you make your decision on who you are going to work with. Don’t let them push you into signing a contract immediately.  A good one never will.

He might say that they are able to repair things or if there is enough hail damage, they might tell you that the roof needs to be replaced and what is involved in calling the Insurance company, to file for a claim and bringing an Adjuster out and a little about the process from that point on.

By this point, if you have vetted several companies, you should have enough information to make an informed decision on who you want to hire.

Once you decide on a Contractor, and let them know, then you can call in a claim and have your chosen Contractor meet with your Insurance Adjuster so that they can help represent your best interest from start to finish.  The Insurance process of a claim is pretty standard as to how the process goes. And the only thing that the HOA will be responsible for will be deductible on the policy.

Once you get your estimate from the Insurance company, also called a “scope of work,” the process begins.

If you follow these suggestions on the front end, the actual work itself should happen fairly effortlessly because you will have done a lot of the hard work on the front end of the process.  You are now in good hands with a seasoned professional and the foundation of a successful job has been set.

If we can help, or you have any questions about our process, or you need a second opinion, do not hesitate to call our Longmont CO office to speak to one of our experts that can help guide you through this process all up and down the Front Range and close mountain towns.