Replacing a roof is a major project, not to mention expensive, so it's a good idea to learn as much as possible about roofing, how roofing companies work, get recommendations, and obtain several bids before making a decision.
The roof on my small 1950s bungalow was showing its age and had a few leaks over the years so it needed replacement. I decided early on that I wanted to go with a local company with an established record of quality work and offered a solid warranty. This criteria eliminated a lot of roofers, and I narrowed my choices to three companies that had solid standing in the community.
All the companies I contacted had good reputations and recommendations, and the bids came in about the same. But I chose West Michigan Roofing, and recommend you do too.
Edward, the Grand Rapids branch manager, did a thorough inspection of my roof and provided an in depth explanation of the process, the how and why of the materials that go under the shingles, installation, the shingles themselves, their crews, and warranty options. He did his homework before our appointment, arriving with overhead photos of my house and identifying areas of concern. It was a lot of information - some might say too much -- but it gave me confidence West Michigan Roofing would do a great job and stand by its work. They also offered a wider choice and quality of shingles than the other companies I contacted.
Having a roof torn off and replaced is disruptive in the best of circumstances, but especially when you have a shared driveway as I do. My neighbors report that Dale, the supervisor and the work crew were conscientious and polite (I was at work while they were there). It turned into a two day job as the crew discovered there were three, not two, layers of shingles on the house. Yet the crew cleaned up at the end of the first work day, and when I came home at the end of the second day the only way you'd know they were there, other than the beautiful new roof, was the dumpster in the driveway. They also did a good job of protecting perennials and other plantings in my front yard.
It hasn't rained (or snowed--it's June, after all!) since the roof was installed, but I can't imagine that there will be any problems with the roof. And in the unlikely event there are, I know West Michigan Roofing will stand by their work. I encourage you to contact them when you need to replace your roof. You won't be sorry. read more
