Roofing projects are significant investments, and the last thing any homeowner wants is to fall victim to scams. At Benson Contracting, located in Glens Falls, NY, we believe in transparency and educating our clients. Here, we unveil some common roofing scams and provide practical tips to avoid them.
Overcharging for Plywood Replacement
A common tactic used by unscrupulous roofers is to overcharge for plywood replacement. They may claim that more sheets were replaced than actually were, leading to inflated costs. To avoid this:
- Stay Present During the Project: Monitor the number of plywood sheets replaced.
- Inspect Your Attic: New plywood will look different from older material, making it easier to verify replacements.
Inadequate Ice and Water Protection
Proper ice and water protection is crucial for preventing leaks. Some roofers cut corners by installing only one course of ice and water barrier instead of the required two. To ensure proper installation:
- Verify During Installation: Check that two courses of ice and water barrier are installed.
- Read the Contract Carefully: Ensure that the contract specifies the extent of ice and water protection.
Neglecting Step Flashing Replacement
Step flashing is an essential component of a roofing system, yet some contractors omit its replacement to cut costs. To avoid this issue:
- Clarify in the Contract: Ensure step flashing replacement is included in your contract.
- Understand the Process: Know whether the step flashing can be replaced without additional siding work.
Using Inferior Roofing Materials
Some roofers may quote for high-quality materials but use inferior products to save costs. To prevent this:
- Monitor Material Delivery: Check the brands and quality of materials delivered.
- Specify Materials in the Contract: Ensure all materials are clearly listed in the contract.
Precautions to Take
- Get a Detailed Quote: Ensure all aspects of the job are clearly outlined.
- Avoid Full Payment Upfront: Never pay the full amount before the job is completed.
- Request Receipts: Always ask for receipts and invoices for all transactions.
- Review the Contract Thoroughly: Understand every detail of the contract before signing.
- Watch the Materials: Keep an eye on the materials delivered and used on your project.
Conclusion
Being informed is your best defense against roofing scams. By understanding these common tactics and taking proactive steps, you can protect your investment and ensure a quality roofing job. Remember, a reputable contractor like Benson Contracting will always be transparent and willing to discuss every aspect of your roofing project.
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