Best Roofing Companies

When should I hire a roofing contractor?

You should hire a roofing contractor when your roof starts to show visible signs of aging or damage. Watch for missing shingles, sagging, leaks and signs of water damage indoors.

Ideally, the best time to hire a roofing contractor is before you need a new roof. If you’re fixing damage caused by severe weather, it’s important to stop the damage before it gets worse. 

If your roof is nearing the end of its expected lifespan — typically 20 to 25 years for asphalt shingles — it’s smart to start gathering quotes and evaluating contractors before problems develop. Routine inspections can also uncover early signs of damage, such as curling shingles, granule loss or water stains on ceilings. These are indicators that repairs or a replacement may be on the horizon.

Spring and fall are often ideal times for roof work because of milder weather conditions. Scheduling during these seasons can help you avoid delays caused by extreme heat, snow or rain. Keep in mind that contractors may be busier after major storms or during peak renovation periods, so booking early gives you more flexibility and potentially better pricing.

Roof replacement cost

Replacing a roof is a significant investment, but it’s also one that protects your home and adds value. Costs can vary widely based on the size of your home, the type of materials you choose and local labor rates. On average, homeowners spend between $5,000 and $15,000 for a standard asphalt shingle roof replacement. High-end materials like slate, tile or metal can push that number anywhere from $20,000 to over $50,000.

Each project is different. Factors like roof pitch, the complexity of the design, removal of the old roof and underlying structural repairs can all influence the final price. Homes with steep roofs or multiple chimneys and skylights typically require more labor and materials, which increases costs.

Your geographic location also plays a role. Labor and material prices tend to be higher in urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living. Plus, if your area has recently experienced severe weather, demand for roofing contractors may temporarily drive prices up.

While the upfront cost can seem steep, remember that quality materials and professional installation can save you money in the long run by reducing maintenance and repair expenses. Be sure to get multiple quotes, understand what’s included in each estimate and weigh the long-term value of your investment before making a decision.

How to finance a roof replacement

Many of the best roofing companies offer flexible financing, making roof replacement feasible even if you’re on a budget. Options range from in-house payment plans to partnerships with leading finance platforms, which can accommodate a variety of credit scores. This financial flexibility ensures homeowners can address urgent roof repairs or replacements without waiting to save the entire sum upfront. Providing multiple financing choices also makes roofing projects more accessible for families who might otherwise delay critical repairs.

How to choose a roofing contractor

To find the best roofing contractor consider what your roofing needs are, search for a local roofer, ask questions and compare quotes. Once you’ve narrowed your list down to a few different roofing contractors, always be sure to read the fine print before making your final decision. Here’s a breakdown of what you should be looking for at each stage of the process.

1. Consider your roofing needs

There are two types of roof professionals: roofing companies and independent contractors.

An independent contractor is often better (and cheaper) for fast repairs such as leaks, damaged or missing shingles or minor wear and tear. More complicated projects, like total roof replacements, can require an experienced team.

Are you filing a claim?

You might not get to pick your contractor if you’re filing a claim with your home warranty company.

For example, when Robert in North Carolina needed roof work, he filed a claim with American Home Shield. AHS arranged for a roofing company to make the repairs, so Robert didn’t have to worry about finding a good contractor at all. Some homeowners insurance companies give you options to choose from, and others don’t.

» WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? Home warranty vs. home insurance

Are you considering solar panels?

We hear a lot of solar customer complaints from people who didn’t know you might have to replace your roof before going solar. Quality solar panels should last 25 to 30 years, so your roof has to last at least as long.

We’ve talked to many solar customers like Devin in California, who paid “$5,000 to take the panels down and reinstall them after the roof was replaced.”

Avoid this frustrating and expensive process if you can.

» SHOULD YOU? Replacing your roof before going solar

What roofing style do you want?

Asphalt shingles — the most common type — come in many colors and can fit many different architectural styles. You can choose other roofing materials for a more specific look, however.

	Logo Rustic Wood shingles are an excellent way to get a rustic look. They develop a lovely patina color when weathered over time, which looks great on cottage, craftsman or Tudor-style homes.
	Logo Elegant If sophistication is more your style, choose a roofing material like clay or slate tile. Tile comes in many different shapes and textures that offer a unique, upscale feel.
	Logo Modern For a sleeker look, consider metal paneling or shingles. Metal roofing comes in aluminum, copper, stainless steel and zinc. If you’re on a budget, asphalt shingles are the cheapest option to achieve a similar aesthetic.

2. Search for local roofers

Start by asking friends, neighbors, co-workers and family members for recommendations, and read reviews from other customers on our site. The vetting process is similar for roofing companies and independent contractors. In general, all reputable roofers have these qualities in common:

• Experience and expertise: Look for companies with many years of experience, especially if your project requires specialized roofing techniques. Ask for references and take a look at past projects. Be wary of any company that won’t show you examples of its previous work.
• License, bond and insurance: The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends you ask to see copies of your potential roofer’s liability insurance coverage and workers’ compensation certificates. This way, you can confirm it’s effective throughout the project.
• Good local reputation: Make sure the company has a permanent place of business, local address and local phone number. Then read recent reviews to get an idea of what you can expect if you hire them.
• Price and payment transparency: This part becomes more apparent as you start to compare quotes. A big reason some roofers get a bad reputation is because of pushy sales tactics, so look out for people who care more about their bottom line than your best interests.

Be wary of roofing scams after disasters

“After a storm, emotions, anxiety and the desire to be made whole again tend to become major factors in the decision to hire a specific contractor,” said Fred Malik, managing director of FORTIFIED programs at the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety.

Unfortunately, “storm-chasing” roofers often follow natural disasters. These companies often go door-to-door using high-pressure sales tactics and above-market prices to take advantage of people in desperate situations.

Instead of hiring a roofer too quickly, you should find someone to make temporary repairs — enough to stop the damage from worsening — and then hire a quality roofing contractor who will still be doing business in your area next year, according to Malik.

3. Ask the right questions

Once you find a roofer who seems trustworthy, asking these questions will help you decide if they're a good match for your project.

• What types of roofs do you usually install? Ensuring that the roofer has expertise in the specific type of roof you want can guarantee quality workmanship and help avoid potential issues down the line.
• What’s included in the estimate? A clear breakdown of the estimate helps you understand all the costs involved (no hidden fees or unexpected expenses).
• How many workers will be there? Knowing the team size gives you an idea of how the work will be managed and the level of disruption you can expect around your property.
• How long will my project take to complete? This helps you plan around the roofing project so you can make any necessary accommodations in your schedule.
• Will you remove and dispose of my old roofing material? Proper disposal of old materials is crucial for environmental and safety reasons. This question confirms you won't be left with the hassle and potential costs of disposal.
• What warranties or guarantees do you offer? Warranties give you peace of mind that the work is backed by the contractor and that any future issues related to the job will be addressed.
• How will you handle unexpected complications or costs? Roofing projects sometimes reveal unforeseen issues. Understanding how the roofer handles these surprises sets clear expectations.

Asking these questions means you’re taking proactive steps to ensure your roofing project runs smoothly, stays within budget and results in a durable, high-quality roof over your head.

» MORE TIPS: How to choose a home remodeling contractor

4. Compare a few quotes

Ask for a detailed written proposal that includes a description of the work and approximate start and completion dates.

“If you're re-roofing because of damage, an itemized estimate will help you identify any differences between the contractor’s estimate and the one your insurance company provides,” Malik said. It also helps to prevent misunderstandings and unpleasant surprises.

Oliver in Minnesota said they got five bids, “mostly in the low $20,000s. I chose the low bidder, who was also running a promotion with a shingle manufacturer that happened to apply to my specific situation. So, I got a good deal.”

But remember: Price is only one of the factors in selecting a roofing contractor. The quality of their work is just as, or more, important.

» WORTH IT? Home remodeling ROI: costs vs. value

5. Read the fine print

Your roofing contract should specify all the work to be done, including any necessary preparations, the removal of the old roof (if applicable) and the installation of the new one. Make sure the contract includes the following details:

• Materials: You should know which materials will be used, including underlayment, type of shingles or tiles, flashing and ventilation.
• Warranty: The contract should detail what's covered under the warranty, such as materials and workmanship. It should also specify how long the warranty lasts and list any actions or situations that would void the warranty.
• Time frames: Be sure the contract lists the start date (when the roofer expects work to begin) and completion date (the estimated date when the roofer finishes). The timeline should include contingencies for unexpected delays.
• Payment terms: Some contractors may require a percentage upfront to secure materials or schedule.
• Payment schedule: Your contract will likely include clear milestones for payments. These are usually after specific phases of the work. Your final payment is often withheld until the job is complete and you’re satisfied with the work.
• Licenses and insurance: The contract should confirm that the contractor is licensed to work in your jurisdiction and carries both liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage.
• Cleanup and waste disposal: Be sure you know who’s responsible for cleaning up the worksite and disposing of the old roofing materials.
• Change orders: The contract should tell you the procedures for making changes to the work after the contract has been signed. Typically, any changes should be agreed upon in writing, specifying any additional costs or time.
• Termination clause: Make sure the contract lists the conditions under which you or the roofer can terminate the contract.
• Dispute resolution: Should a disagreement come up, the contract should outline how it will be addressed, whether through mediation, arbitration or litigation.

Remember the advice from the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA): Always be wary of bids that seem too low. A cheaper upfront cost might result in lower-quality work or materials, leading to more expenses down the line. And always scrutinize the warranty details to ensure you’re adequately protected should any issues arise after repairs are complete or your new roof is installed.