by Werner-Admin | Nov 6, 2025 | Roof Maintenance, West Michigan Roofing Blog
West Michigan winter storms are no joke. Between heavy lake-effect snow, freezing temperatures, and unpredictable storms, your roof takes on a lot during the year’s coldest months.
In fact, the average snowfall is approximately 77.6 inches in Grand Rapids, 87.2 inches in Muskegon, and between 80-95 inches in the lakeshore area.
Without proper maintenance, all that ice and snow can lead to leaks, ice dams, or even structural damage—problems that only get more expensive as winter wears on.
The good news? A little preparation and ongoing care can go a long way.
With proper winter roof maintenance, you can protect your home, extend the life of your roof, and avoid those last-minute emergency repairs when the next storm rolls in.
In this guide, we’ll walk through six simple but effective roof maintenance tips for Michigan homeowners. You’ll learn how to prevent ice dams, safely remove snow, and spot early warning signs of damage before they become serious issues.
6 Winter Roof Maintenance Tips
1. Inspect Your Roof Before the Snow Hits
One of the smartest things you can do before winter storms arrive is schedule a professional roof inspection. Once snow and ice build up, even minor wear and tear can become major problems.
A licensed roofer can spot issues that are easy to miss from the ground, such as:
- Loose, cracked, or missing shingles
- Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, or skylights
- Weak spots or sagging areas
- Signs of poor attic insulation or ventilation
Catching these problems early helps prevent leaks, ice dam formation, and costly repairs. Plus, a clean bill of health gives you peace of mind knowing your roof is ready for whatever West Michigan weather brings.
If you’d rather not climb a ladder or deal with the cold, let the experts handle it. Werner Roofing offers free roof inspections to identify potential issues before they escalate, and we’ll never recommend a replacement unless it’s truly necessary.
2. Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear
Your gutters play a huge role in keeping your roof healthy during winter. When they’re clogged with leaves, pine needles, or debris, melting snow has nowhere to go. Instead of draining correctly, it refreezes along your roof’s edge. This creates heavy ice dams that can lift shingles, damage gutters, and cause leaks inside your home.
To avoid that, make gutter maintenance part of your winter roof maintenance routine:
- Clean gutters and downspouts before the first freeze.
- Check for leaks or sagging sections that could trap water.
- Ensure downspouts direct water at least three to four feet from your foundation.
For long-term protection, consider installing a gutter guard system like LeafSlugger or GutterWorks, both available through Werner Roofing. These systems prevent debris buildup, allowing water to flow freely year-round (even in freezing temperatures).
3. Understand and Prevent Ice Dams
Few winter roofing issues cause more headaches for Michigan homeowners than ice dams. These thick ridges of ice form along the edges of your roof when heat from inside your home melts the snow on top. As that melted snow refreezes near the colder roof eaves, it traps water behind it, forcing it to back up under shingles and into your attic, walls, or ceilings.
Why Ice Dams Form:
- Inadequate attic insulation allows warm air to rise and melt snow unevenly.
- Poor ventilation prevents heat from escaping, creating warm and cold spots on the roof.
- Clogged gutters cause meltwater to pool and refreeze at the roof’s edge.
How to Prevent Ice Dams:
- Improve attic insulation to keep heat where it belongs (inside your home).
- Ensure proper ventilation to allow cold air to circulate under the roof deck.
- Seal attic air leaks around light fixtures, chimneys, and vents.
- Keep gutters clean so meltwater can drain freely.
If you notice icicles forming along your gutters, it could be an early warning sign of ice dams. The safest way to address it is to contact a professional roofer who can safely remove the buildup and help you correct the underlying cause.
4. Safely Remove Excess Snow From Your Roof
A little snow on your roof is perfectly normal in West Michigan. But when multiple storms pile up, that snow can become surprisingly heavy. The extra weight puts stress on your roof structure, especially on older homes or roofs with existing weak spots.
So, should you remove snow from your roof?
In most cases, yes—especially if you see more than six inches of accumulation or notice uneven snow buildup. Regular snow removal helps prevent:
- Roof collapse or sagging from heavy weight
- Ice dam formation caused by the melting and refreezing of snow
- Water damage from trapped moisture
How to Remove Snow Safely:
- Use a long-handled roof rake to pull snow down from the ground.
- Focus on clearing the roof edges and valleys where snow builds up.
- Avoid using shovels, hammers, or other tools that could damage shingles.
- Never chip away at ice — this can cause serious harm to both you and your roof.
Most importantly, don’t climb onto an icy roof. It’s simply not worth the risk. If your roof is steep or multi-story, call a professional.
5. Watch for Warning Signs of Roof Damage
Even with regular maintenance, winter weather can still take a toll on your roof. The key is catching problems early before they turn into leaks or major issues. Keep an eye out for these warning signs of winter roof damage:
- Water stains on ceilings, walls, or in your attic — a telltale sign of moisture intrusion.
- Large icicles hanging from the eaves or gutters — often a symptom of ice dams or poor insulation.
- Sagging or creaking areas on your roof — which could indicate excessive snow load.
- Uneven snow melt — warmer patches on the roof might point to heat escaping through insulation gaps.
- Drafts or temperature fluctuations in upper rooms — possible signs of attic ventilation issues.
If you notice any of these red flags, don’t wait until spring. Winter damage only worsens as freeze-thaw cycles continue. A quick inspection or repair now can save you thousands in future costs and keep your home safe and dry through the rest of the season.
6. Know When to Call the Professionals
Sometimes, even the most diligent homeowners need a little help. Climbing icy ladders, removing roof snow, or diagnosing hidden leaks can be dangerous to do correctly, especially in the middle of a West Michigan winter.
If you notice persistent leaks, large ice dams, or sagging roof sections, it’s best to call a professional roofing company. The right team will address the immediate issue safely and uncover the root cause, whether it’s insulation, ventilation, or age-related wear.
At Werner Roofing, we’re here to make sure your roof performs its best all winter long. Our expert team can handle everything from snow removal and ice dam prevention to roof inspections and repairs, always with honesty and transparency.
Our promise: “We won’t recommend or sell a roof replacement unless it’s necessary.”
So, whether you’re worried about a small leak or just want peace of mind before the next storm, we’re ready to help.
Don’t Let Winter Catch Your Roof Off Guard
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against West Michigan’s harsh winter weather, and a little care goes a long way toward keeping it strong. By inspecting your roof early, cleaning your gutters, preventing ice dams, and removing snow safely, you can avoid costly repairs and enjoy a worry-free winter.
But remember: you don’t have to do it all yourself.
The experts at Werner Roofing are here to help with inspections, maintenance, and repairs to keep your roof performing at its best all season long.
Don’t wait until melting snow reveals a hidden leak or spring thaw exposes damage. With help from your local roofing professionals, you can stay ahead of the weather and protect your investment.
Schedule Your Free Winter Roof Inspection Today
by elizabeth@evenbound.com | Oct 29, 2025 | Roof Damage, Roof Maintenance
If you live in Grand Rapids, you know winter doesn’t mess around. Heavy lake effect snow, freezing temperatures, and high winds can put even the best roofs to the test.
As a roofing professional, I’ve seen how quickly a beautiful blanket of snow can cause ice dams, leaks, or worse—structural roof damage.
That’s why taking a few preventative steps before the snow starts flying is so important. Below, I’ll explain what makes lake effect snow so tough on your roof, what risks to watch for, and what you can do to keep your home protected all winter long.
Understanding the Lake Effect Snow in Grand Rapids
Lake effect snow happens when cold air passes over Lake Michigan’s warmer waters. The lake adds moisture to the air, dumping heavy, wet snow once it hits land. This is especially common here in West Michigan.
Did you know? Unlike light, powdery snow, lake effect snow is dense and water-heavy. That extra weight adds stress to your roof and can speed up ice dam formation, especially if your attic isn’t properly insulated or ventilated.
The result? Melted snow can refreeze at the roof’s edge, blocking proper drainage and forcing water under your shingles.
The Risks Snow and Ice Pose to Roofs
Snow may look harmless, but it brings several hidden dangers:
- Ice dams and leaks: Melted snow that refreezes can back up under shingles, causing water intrusion.
- Shingle damage: The freeze-thaw cycle can crack or loosen shingles.
- Excess weight: Too much snow buildup can lead to sagging or even structural strain.
- Mold and mildew: Moisture trapped under shingles or in attics can cause long-term indoor issues.
These problems often start small—but if ignored, they can become expensive repairs by midwinter.
3 Roof and Snow Safety Tips for the Michigan Lake Effect
1. Preventive Roof Maintenance Before Winter
A little fall roof maintenance goes a long way in preventing winter headaches:
- Clean your gutters so melting snow and ice have a clear path to drain. Clogged gutters trap water that can freeze and push under shingles.
- Check your shingles and flashing. Damaged or missing pieces create easy entry points for water.
- Inspect attic insulation and ventilation. Proper airflow keeps your roof’s surface cold, reducing the chance of ice dams.
If you’re uncomfortable doing these checks yourself, schedule a free professional inspection with Werner Roofing. We’ll make sure your roof, flashing, and gutters are winter-ready.
2. Safe Snow Removal Practices
It’s tempting to climb up there and clear your roof after a heavy snowfall—but please, don’t. Walking on icy shingles is one of the most dangerous winter tasks a homeowner can attempt.
Instead:
- Use a roof rake with a long extension handle to pull down excess snow safely from the ground.
- Focus on clearing the first few feet above the gutters to help prevent ice dams.
- As a rule of thumb, if snow buildup exceeds 6 inches of dense, wet snow, it’s worth removing.
- If the accumulation is heavy or hard to reach, call a professional. It’s safer and often more affordable than repairing roof damage later.
3. Spotting Warning Signs of Trouble
Keep an eye out for these early indicators that your roof may be struggling:
- Large icicles along the eaves
- Water stains on ceilings or upper walls
- Sagging rooflines or dips in the structure
- Persistent ice dams in the same areas after each snowfall
Catching these warning signs early can save you thousands in repairs.
Why Professional Help Matters
Even if you’re diligent about roof maintenance, Michigan winters can still throw surprises your way. Professional roofers have the right tools, safety equipment, and experience to handle those challenges safely and effectively.
At Werner Roofing, we’ve helped thousands of West Michigan homeowners prepare for (and recover from) harsh lake effect conditions. Our team knows what to look for, from minor flashing gaps to hidden moisture damage, and we’ll help you address issues before they escalate.
Preventive care is always more affordable than emergency repair. A quick inspection now can mean a dry, stress-free winter later.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late, We’re Here To Help
Once the snow hits, it’s too late to fix what’s underneath. If you haven’t had your roof inspected this year, now’s the time!
Schedule your free roof inspection today with Werner Roofing and head into winter knowing your home is protected from whatever lake effect snow brings.
by elise@evenbound.com | Jun 26, 2025 | Roof Maintenance, West Michigan Roofing Blog
When most homeowners think about their roofs, they picture shingles, gutters, or maybe even flashing, but rarely ventilation. But proper roof ventilation plays a critical role in your home’s overall health, comfort, and efficiency. It helps regulate temperature, prevent moisture buildup, and even extend the lifespan of your roofing materials. Without efficient roof ventilation, you could face costly energy bills, mold problems, and premature roof failure.
Let’s discuss why roof ventilation matters, the different types of roof ventilators available, and how to tell if your current system is underperforming. Whether you’re building a new home or maintaining an existing one, this guide will help you understand how a well-ventilated roof protects your investment.
Looking for more attic-specific guidance? Check out our complete guide to attic ventilation.
Why Is Roof Ventilation So Important?
Roof ventilation isn’t just a nice-to-have feature — it’s essential for protecting your home year-round. When air flows properly through the attic and under the roof deck, it keeps your home cooler in the summer, drier in the winter, and more energy efficient overall.
Here’s how:
- Prevents heat buildup in summer
On hot days, heat can get trapped in your attic, making the rest of your home harder to cool. Proper roof ventilation allows hot air to escape, keeping your attic (and whole house) at a more manageable temperature.
- Reduces moisture accumulation in winter
In colder months, warm indoor air can rise into the attic and condense on cold surfaces, leading to moisture problems like mold, mildew, and rot. Good ventilation helps move that moist air out before it causes damage.
- Helps HVAC systems run more efficiently
When your attic isn’t overheating or holding excess moisture, your heating and cooling systems don’t have to work as hard, which lowers your energy bills and reduces wear and tear on your HVAC unit.
- Extends the life of roofing materials
Trapped heat and moisture can break down shingles, warp decking, and weaken underlayment. With proper airflow, your roof stays dry and cool, helping materials last longer and reducing the need for costly repairs.
The Cost- and Health-Saving Benefits
Proper roof ventilation isn’t just about comfort — it can save you serious money and protect your health. A well-ventilated roof can lower energy costs, reduce repair needs, and help prevent mold growth that can trigger respiratory issues. It’s a simple upgrade that pays off in the long run, both for your wallet and well-being.
5 Common Roof Ventilation Types
A balanced roof ventilation system includes intake vents, which draw cooler air into the attic, and exhaust vents, which allow warm, moist air to escape. Together, they promote continuous airflow that protects your home from damage and improves energy efficiency.
Here are five common types of roof ventilators used in residential homes:
1. Ridge Vents (Exhaust)
Ridge vents are installed along the peak of the roof and allow hot air to escape naturally from the attic. Since heat rises, these vents are highly effective at promoting continuous airflow without the need for moving parts or electricity.
2. Soffit Vents (Intake)
Located under the eaves of your roof, soffit vents allow cool, outside air to enter the attic. When paired with ridge or other exhaust vents, they help maintain steady air flow through the space.
3. Gable Vents (Exhaust)
Gable vents are placed on the exterior walls near the peaks of gabled roofs. They allow warm air to exit and assist with cross-ventilation, especially in combination with other vent types.
4. Roof Ventilation Fans (Exhaust)
Also known as powered attic ventilators, these electric or solar-powered fans actively pull hot, humid air out of the attic. They’re especially useful in areas with extreme heat or poor natural airflow, though they do require energy to operate.
5. Box or Turtle Vents (Exhaust)
These are small, static vents typically placed near the roof ridge. They allow hot air to passively rise and escape. While simple, they can be effective when installed in the correct quantity and paired with proper intake vents.
How to Know If Your Home Has Poor Roof Ventilation
Not sure if your home’s roof ventilation is doing its job? Poor ventilation often flies under the radar until it causes noticeable (and costly) problems.
Here are some common warning signs to watch for:
- Uneven temperatures throughout the home
If some rooms are noticeably hotter or colder than others, especially on upper floors, it could be a sign that your attic isn’t properly ventilated.
- High energy bills
Poor airflow can cause your HVAC system to work overtime, especially in the summer and winter. If your energy bills seem unusually high, inefficient ventilation could be to blame.
- Ice dams in winter
Warm air trapped in the attic can melt snow on the roof, which then refreezes at the eaves, forming damaging ice dams. Proper ventilation helps regulate attic temperature to prevent this.
- Mold or mildew in the attic
Excess moisture in the attic creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew growth, which can pose serious health risks and damage insulation and wood structures.
- Premature roof wear
Curling shingles, deteriorating underlayment, or rotting roof decking can all be signs that your roof is retaining too much heat and moisture.
When to Call In a Professional
If you’ve noticed any of these issues or just want peace of mind, schedule a professional roof inspection. At Werner Roofing, we’ll evaluate your home’s ventilation system and recommend the best solutions to protect your roof and improve your home’s energy efficiency.
How Werner Roofing Can Help
We understand that roof ventilation is one of the most critical and often overlooked components of a healthy roofing system. Our team has years of experience identifying, installing, and upgrading all types of roof ventilation systems, from ridge vents and soffit vents to powered roof ventilation fans.
If you’re unsure whether your ventilation system is working properly, don’t leave it to guesswork. Ask Werner Roofing for a professional roof inspection and expert recommendations tailored to your home. We’ll help you find the best ventilation solution for long-term comfort and protection.
Ready to Improve Your Roof Ventilation?
Roof ventilation may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about home maintenance, but it plays a major role in keeping your home comfortable, energy-efficient, and protected from damage.
If you think your ventilation system isn’t doing the job, don’t wait for problems to show up. Contact Werner Roofing today for a professional roof inspection and expert solutions that keep your home safe, efficient, and built to last.
by Werner-Admin | May 20, 2024 | Roof Maintenance
An annual roof inspection is one of those things that always makes it onto the to-do list but doesn’t always actually happen.
But here’s the thing – your roof is one of the most important and vulnerable parts of your home. It’s what takes the brunt force of the worst weather and keeps your family safe and warm.
So, if you’ve heard about annual inspections but haven’t committed to calling anyone up yet, here are seven ways annual roof inspections will make your life much easier.
7 Reasons Why You Should Get Annual Roof Inspections
1. Hello, Clean Gutters
While gutter cleanings aren’t always part of a routine roof inspection, if you’re going to have your roofer come out, you might as well have them clean the gutters for you! It will hardly take any time for a professional, and the small amount you’ll pay is nothing compared to how much you’ll dread doing it yourself. Clean gutters mean a healthy house, and if you’re not the one who has to clean the gutters, life is good.
2. You Can Save Money in the Long Run
An annual roof inspection can save you thousands of dollars in the long run. By having a professional roofer up there checking for any problem areas, you can avoid costly, major repairs. The more often your roofer inspects your roof, the more likely they are to catch minor issues before they turn into big ones. A missing or curled shingle now is hardly a significant expense, but if left unfixed, you could be looking at repair costs in the thousands down the road.
3. Your Family Will Stay Healthy
A faulty or leaking roof can breed some bad, unhealthy problems – the worst is mold. Mold spores can get into your lungs and the lungs of your family members, visitors, and pets. An annual roof inspection will show if mold is forming and can help you get a handle on it before it spreads and becomes a health and air quality issue for your family.
4. Major Damage Can Be Prevented
One of the biggest problems associated with a faulty roof is water damage. Unfortunately, water damage can be very expensive to repair when not caught early enough. Without an annual roof inspection, you’re unlikely to notice water damage until it begins physically leaking through the roof.
This is bad because, at that point, the water damage will already be extensive within your attic and the subroofing that holds your shingles in place. That means significant repairs at a major cost to you, not to mention the erosion and damage that water can cause to the exterior of your home as well. Annual roof inspections can identify small leaks just as they form, which means you have the opportunity to fix them before they get worse.
5. The Roof’s Lifespan Increases
If you’ve read the above reasons to get an annual roof inspection, it will come as no surprise when we say that regular inspections can extend the life of your roofs. That’s because you’re nipping minor problems in the bud before they get larger and more costly to repair. The fewer large-scale repairs you have to do, the longer your roof will last. That’s some major savings, considering that re-roofing can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000.
6. Insurance Claims Are Easier
Annual roof inspections also make filing claims with your insurance provider much easier. When you show that you’ve performed all necessary regular maintenance, and through no fault of your own, a tree fell through your roof, they’re more likely to give you the claim money you need to make repairs. Plus, all the reports from your roofer over the years will show them that you’ve worked to maintain your roof, which will help them determine what damages they should cover and which, if any, were pre-existing.
7. Peace of Mind
Finally, annual roof inspections can provide peace of mind. When you know that your roof is in good shape and you’ve done everything possible to preserve it, you can rest easy knowing your family is kept safe. That peace of mind alone can go a long way in making your daily life much easier.
Schedule Your Annual Inspection With Werner Roofing Today!
If you haven’t already scheduled regular roof inspections but would like to start, get in touch with Werner Roofing. A trusted, local West Michigan roofer, we’re here to help you ensure your home and roof are safe and sound for years to come. To schedule your annual inspection, call our office at 616-844-5382 or contact us online today!
by Ben Johnson | Mar 3, 2024 | Roof Maintenance
Got Roof Algae? Here’s a Guide To Removing Algae From Roofs and More
What do overhanging branches, clogged gutters, standing water, and poor ventilation have in common? They can all cause roof algae.
Roof algae is an issue that many homeowners face, and many find themselves unable to fix it. That’s where we come in. Read on, and we’ll tell you all about removing algae from roofs and how to prevent it in the future.
What Is Roof Algae?
Gloeocapsa magma, commonly known as roof algae, is a dark, mold-like substance that appears on roofs. It’s most commonly found in warm, humid climates and can cause an unsightly appearance. Roof algae is characterized by dark stains and streaks or can appear as white or green markings across the roof.
How to Remove Algae From a Roof
If you’ve noticed some attractive coloring or moss growth on your roof, you’re probably wondering how you can get rid of it quickly – and quickly is the keyword here. If you don’t act fast, the problem can rapidly get worse.
We recommend having a roofing professional tackle roof algae removal. However, if you consider yourself handy and aren’t afraid of climbing ladders, there is a method you can try:
- Water and Bleach Mixture | The most common method of removal is a mixture of water and bleach with a 10:1 ratio. Pour the mixture over the infected area and let it sit for a half hour to 45 minutes. Once the mixture is set, rinse the area with water.
Note: We cannot stress this enough – do NOT power wash the roof; it will damage it. The algae will take some time to come off with this solution; just be patient.
For directions on creating the right cleaning mixture for your roof material, refer to this helpful article.
Again, this method is for those who feel capable of fixing household problems themselves and are comfortable up on their own roofs. If you are not one of these people, have no fear; there are professionals who can remove the roof algae stress-free.
How to Prevent Roof Algae From Forming
If the algae on your roof has been banished (either by you or a professional), the next step is to take preventative measures to avoid the algae returning. Even if you live in a humid climate, a rainy climate, or you deal with overgrown trees, there are still ways of keeping the algae at bay.
- GAF’s Anti-Algae Technology | GAF’s Advanced Algae Protection with Time-Release Algae-Fighting Technology, featuring thousands of copper microsites, efficiently releases algae-fighting copper over time, offering long-lasting protection against blue-green algae discoloration on roofs.
- Consistent Gutter Cleaning & Roof Inspections | It’s vital to have regular maintenance scheduled for gutter cleaning and roof inspections. Make the maintenance of your roof a priority, and you’ll save time and money in the long run – not to mention your house will look its very best.
- Regular Maintenance and Gutter Cleaning | Ensure there’s never any standing water on your roof, and if possible, trim any trees that may shed onto the roof or block the sunlight.
When to Call a Roofing Professional for Help
Contact a roofing professional the day you notice signs of discoloration, watermarks, dark spots, peeling paint, mold on your chimney, rotting wood, or crumbling drywall– it could be a sign of potential algae growth on your roof. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to treat. It’s never a wrong time to ask for the help of a professional.
Call Werner Roofing for High-Quality Roofing Services in West Michigan
At Werner Roofing in West Michigan, we aim to provide high-quality roof installation, repair, and replacement. We have over 30 years of experience in the industry, use only the highest quality materials from top brands, and pride ourselves on honesty and integrity. We’re proud of our service and team, and we’re happy to come out and take a look at your roof and offer a few suggestions to help treat your roof algae issues.
by Ben Johnson | Jan 15, 2024 | Roof Maintenance, Roof Repair, West Michigan Roofing Blog
Finding the right person to install a new roof on your home isn’t always easy. Roofing can be a major expense, so it’s crucial to make sure you choose the right roofing contractor to do the job. Do you know what you should look for in a good roofing contractor and roofing proposal? If not, don’t worry – we’re here to help!
Our Guide to Roofing Proposals
As a homeowner, collecting bids from several roofing contractors and choosing the best fit for your preferred budget, materials, and timeframe is helpful. To select the option that’s best for you, though, you need to know a little about understanding roofing contractor proposals.
Let’s break down the roofing proposal process so you know exactly what to look at and how to tell which roofing contractor is the best choice for your home.
What Info to Provide for a Roofing Proposal:
First things first – before a contractor can create a proper proposal, they’ll need some information from you first.
- Budget – You’ll need to tell potential roofers how much you’re willing to spend on your new roof. Though you might not have a specific number in mind yet, do a little research to see what is reasonable for the material you’re looking for and the size of your home to give potential contractors a ballpark figure to start with.
- Preferred Material – Are you looking for a metal roof? Asphalt? Or something different, like ceramic tile? Whatever aesthetic you’re going for, you’ll want to let your roofer in on it so they can create a proposal that reflects the end goal. Remember that different materials, finishes, and colors have varying price points.
- Timeframe – Do you need your roof completed by a specific time? If you’re building a new home, the time frame will be essential because you’ll have to have a roof installed before moving on to interior construction. The timeframe may be more flexible if you’re re-roofing an existing home.
- Description of any Current Problems – Any reputable roofer will inspect your roof before they give you a final estimate. If there are any issues you know about beforehand, you’ll want to share this with potential roofers. Then, they can put the price of those additional fixes into their proposal, giving you a fair look at how much you’ll be spending.
Once you’ve given roofers a basic idea of what you’re looking for in your roofing project, they’ll assemble a proposal and send it to you. The proposal should outline everything the roofer plans to do, when they plan to do it, and how much it will cost.
What to Look For in a High-Quality Roofing Proposal:
When evaluating roofing proposals, knowing what exactly you should be looking for is crucial. Let’s dive in!
- Materials Used – The roofer should include exactly which roofing materials they plan on using, including the name of the manufacturer, the style of the shingle, and the grade of the material. This will allow you to compare multiple proposals and better understand what quality to expect from each roofer.
- Scheduling – A roofing proposal should also include a detailed schedule of when everything will happen. Most roofing jobs shouldn’t take that long, but they are inconvenient for those who live in the home, so it’s important to know when roofers will be there and how long it will take them to finish the job.
- Explanation of Liabilities – A quality roofing proposal should explain any potential liabilities and how the roofer’s insurance will cover those liabilities in the event of an accident. This will tell you what insurance the roofer has. If they don’t have insurance, you’re liable for any injury on your property, and it’s possible your roof won’t comply with the local building code.
- How Waste Will be Removed – Roofing is a messy job. Nails and shingles are flying everywhere! You need to ensure that whoever you hire has a plan to clean that mess up before they leave, and the proposal should state how they plan to clean up. Many roofers have a giant magnet that picks up any fallen nails, and others make sure to throw all old shingles and waste into a giant dumpster they provide. No matter the method, make sure they offer clean-up, or you may end up paying a lot more.
At Werner Roofing, we prioritize minimizing debris on your property. So, we’ve made significant investments in using tools like the Equipter to keep your home relatively free of debris during the roof replacement process. Learn more about our roofing process here!
- Explanation of Warranty – Roofs often have multiple warranties. There’s a warranty on materials and another on the work the roofer and crew complete. The proposal should outline the specifics of each warranty and explain what is covered under each warranty.
- How the Roof Will be Paid For – A quality proposal outlines what you must pay and when. Some roofers take payment in installments, while others prefer part up front and the second part when the work is completed.
- Additional Costs – If there are any additional costs associated with your roofing job (repairing subroofing, installing flashing around the chimney, etc.), the proposal should also outline those.
Things to Double-Check Roofing Proposals For:
While everything on a roofing proposal is important, there are a few things you’ll want to double-check for. Remember that a quality roofer should already include these items. A shadier roofer might leave them out to get your business and charge you more later.
- Itemized List of Costs – Not every roofer offers an itemized list of costs automatically, but if you’re comparing bids, it’s a good thing to ask for. An itemized list tells you exactly what you’re paying for each aspect of your roof, from labor to material costs.
- Licensure and Workers Compensation – Ensure that any roofer you hire is licensed and provides workers’ compensation to their crew members. This protects you from any liabilities that occur on your property.
- Acknowledge Regional Nuances – Be mindful of local regulations or variations that might impact the specifics of roofing proposals in your area. These guidelines can influence material choices, installation methods, or waste disposal practices, making it essential to ensure proposals align with local standards.
Understanding Proposals and Trusting Werner Roofing
In the end, when choosing a roofing contractor, read through each proposal thoroughly. The best roofing contractors will be as upfront as possible with cost estimates. They will have the necessary permits, licensing, and insurance to protect their crew and your home.
If the roofing proposals you’ve been looking at still don’t make sense, feel free to call Werner Roofing. We’ve been working in the area for decades and provide roofing services you can trust. For a free estimate, call our office at 616-844-5382 or request for a free roofing estimate online today!
