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Are you searching for low-cost roofing options? You might have even gotten a few low quotes, but have you ever wondered what’s the catch? Why would a professional charge so low for their services?
In this blog post, you will learn how cheap roofing services can cost you more in the long run and what kinds of individuals and organizations offer cheap quotes. Read on to avoid these types of scams.
How Low-Cost Roofing Can Actually Be Expensive
Low-priced roofing services may seem attractive at first, but they may not be the right solution for you or any homeowner, for that matter. Here are the dangers of choosing the cheaper option:
#1 Low Quality Materials
Cheap handymen or companies may use cheap materials to cut costs, which leads to a shorter lifespan for your roof. It especially becomes a safety issue for your home during harsh weather, since low quality materials may not be able to withstand the extreme conditions. These materials will also result in frequent roof repairs, which will add up over time, or an early replacement.
#2 Faulty Roofing Service
Faulty roof repairs or installation can lead to problems such as leaks, rot, and a compromised home foundation. Roofers generally charge based on experience and ability, so an inexpensive labor rate may indicate an inexperienced roofer who isn’t very skilled. They may also do a rush job or cover up their mistakes, which harms your roof in the long run. You may not be able to spot the damage they’ve caused at that moment, but it will eventually become apparent. Ultimately, you’ll be spending more money and time correcting these issues.
#3 Vague Quotes and Hidden Costs
Cheap roofing contractors or individuals may provide a basic estimate that’s nowhere close to the project’s final cost. Their quotes may not include every expense, which means you might end up paying for services or materials you didn’t originally choose. As the project progresses, more hidden costs may emerge, leading to delays.
#4 Unprofessional Attitude and Workmanship
Opting for cheap labor can give you a headache. Cheaper contractors may be untrained or uncertified. They may not be respectful of your time, money, or property and leave the job site untidy or end their work without considering proper quality checks to maintain consistency and the aesthetic appearance of the roof.
#5 Lack Of Solid Warranties & Guarantees
Licensed and reputable roofing contractors often provide warranties and guarantees for their materials and workmanship. Low-cost roofing services may not come with such guarantees. It’s also possible that you might come across people posing as certified roofers who offer fake warranties. This will leave you with no alternative option if issues arise shortly after the work is finished.
#6 Issues With Insurance Claims & Existing Warranties
If you are opting for a cheap, quick fix instead of a professional roof repair service, you may face issues with your manufacturer and insurance provider. To cover the costs of roof repairs or replacements during a claim, most manufacturers and insurance companies check if you have properly maintained your roof. They often require proof of maintenance and professional roofing work to pass your claim.
#7 Improper Safety Measures
Contractors working at extremely low prices may not bother to follow local building codes or OSHA guidelines for roofing. They might cut corners when it comes to high-quality safety gear and tools as well, putting themselves and your property at risk. Accidents or damage caused by poor safety practices could cause distress, delays, legal liabilities, and additional costs.
Who Offers Cheap Roofing Services?
Here are some examples of individuals and companies who offer cheap quotes for roofing work:
Handymen Without Roofing Licenses
Handymen, while versatile in various forms of home repair, may lack specialized expertise in roofing. While some handymen may offer low-cost roofing services, they might not have the necessary skills or knowledge to tackle complex roofing projects. Roofing requires specialized training and equipment, and hiring handymen for roofing tasks may lead to subpar work, improper installations, and potential safety hazards.
Fly-by-Night Companies
Some roofing companies operate under different names to evade accountability. These fly-by-night companies may offer lower prices to attract customers quickly, but they often disappear after completing subpar work, leaving clients without recourse.
Subcontracting to Unskilled Labor
Companies that subcontract work to unskilled or underpaid laborers may offer lower bids for roofing. This can result in poor workmanship, delays, and potential legal issues, as subcontractors may not be held to the same standards as the main contractor.
Storm Chasers
Storm chasers are often individuals or companies that may engage in unethical roofing practices, such as door-to-door solicitation, after extreme storms have occurred and offering quick repairs at seemingly low costs. Homeowners should be cautious when approached by storm chasers, as they may lack local credentials and proper licensing and may vanish once the work is completed.
Wondering how to get a fair price for your roofing needs? The best way to get started is by searching for trustworthy local contractors and getting free estimates from them.
The Right Way To Make Your Roofing Project Affordable
Not all low-priced services are dangerous. Roofing prices are also affected by the time of year and how many years the company has been in business.
Here’s how you can get the right price:
👉 Research Local Contractors
Begin your search by looking for local roofing contractors with established reputations. Check online reviews, look for recommendations from friends or family, and check the company’s licensing and industry certifications.
👉 Experience Matters
A company with a longer history in the industry is likely to have more expertise and a proven track record. Their prices may also be higher than other companies in the area. Newer companies may offer low-cost roofing services, but be sure to check their specialization, legitimacy, materials, and warranties.
👉 Specify Your Needs Clearly
Clearly communicate the details of your roofing project to each contractor. Specify the type of materials you prefer, the scope of work required, and any specific concerns you have. This will ensure that the estimates you receive are accurate and comparable.
👉 Look For Seasonal Discounts
Roofing costs can differ depending on the time of year. Consider scheduling your project during the off-season, such as winter, when contractors may offer discounts to get business. However, keep in mind that certain weather conditions may affect the ability to complete a roofing project within a short time frame.
👉 Check for Financing Options
Well-established roofing companies offer flexible financing options to help homeowners manage the cost of their projects. The interest charges are generally low, and there are sometimes no-interest options too. Explore these options if needed, but be sure to understand the terms and conditions associated with any financing agreement.
If you are looking for affordable roofing services in Pittsburgh, McClellands Contracting and Roofing LLC is here to help.
Get A Free Roof Quote In Pittsburgh From Your Honest & Reputable Local Roofing Contractor
At McClellands Contracting and Roofing LLC, we’re a part of your local community, and we do our best to keep our neighbors safe and happy with our expert residential roofing services in Pittsburgh. If you are looking for low-cost roofing options, reach out to us at (412) 353-5660. We’ve helped numerous homeowners over the years, and we look forward to working with you, too!
