How to Choose the Best Roofing or Siding Contractor: 7 Essential Factors to Consider
- Joseph Paoletti
- May 28
- 3 min read
Your roof and siding are some of the most important components of your home—they protect everything underneath. Whether you're dealing with storm damage, an aging exterior, or simply upgrading your home's curb appeal, choosing the right contractor for the job is crucial. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one to trust?
Here are seven essential factors to consider when selecting a roofing or siding contractor. Understanding these will help you make an informed decision and avoid costly headaches down the road.
1. Reputation
Start by researching the contractor’s reputation in your local community. Check online reviews, ratings on sites like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau, and look for any complaints or red flags. A well-established company with a strong reputation often signals consistent quality and satisfied customers.
Tip: Ask your neighbors, friends, or family if they’ve worked with a contractor they would recommend.
2. Experience
Experience matters in the roofing and siding industry. Contractors who have been in business for many years are more likely to have handled a wide variety of projects, including the type of work your home requires. They’re also more likely to have refined their techniques and problem-solving skills over time.
Look for: Contractors who specialize in your type of roof or siding material (e.g., asphalt shingles, vinyl siding, metal roofing).
3. References
A trustworthy contractor should be more than willing to provide references from previous clients. Contact a few of them to ask about the quality of work, how the crew conducted themselves, whether the project was completed on time and within budget, and how the contractor handled any issues.
Red flag: If a contractor avoids giving references or offers only vague responses, consider it a warning sign.
4. Accreditations and Licenses
Always verify that your contractor is properly licensed and insured. Check if they’re certified by roofing or siding manufacturers, which often indicates they’ve met specific standards and can offer extended warranties.
5. Friendliness of Staff
How a company treats you from the first interaction says a lot about how they’ll handle your project. Friendly, respectful staff who take the time to answer your questions are a sign of a customer-focused business.
Remember: You’ll be communicating with this team throughout the job—make sure you feel comfortable with them.
6. Responsiveness
A contractor who quickly returns calls, follows up on inquiries, and shows up on time for appointments is demonstrating professionalism. Responsiveness is key when unexpected issues arise during a roofing or siding project.
Pro tip: If communication is poor before the contract is signed, it’s unlikely to improve once work begins.
7. Price
Of course, price is a factor—but it should not be the only factor. Extremely low bids may be tempting, but they can indicate poor-quality materials, lack of insurance, or inexperienced labor. On the other hand, the most expensive option isn't always the best either.
Bottom line: You often get what you pay for. A fair, transparent estimate from a reputable contractor is worth far more in the long run than saving a few bucks upfront and paying for it later in repairs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a roofing or siding contractor is a decision that affects not just your home’s appearance, but also its durability, energy efficiency, and resale value. Take the time to vet your options thoroughly using the factors above. A contractor who scores high in reputation, experience, professionalism, and responsiveness is far more likely to deliver a job well done—and peace of mind for you.
In the market for a new roof or siding? If you live within our service area, give us a call today at (877) 846-9566 or fill lit the form below to get started. Or, if you have hail or storm damage from a recent storm, you schedule your free inspection online.
