Beautiful.  Exciting.  Necessary.  At inspection we were told two years (at most) left in the existing roof.  A wild summer wind storm created a bald spot and shingles scattered in the yard, so yet another low priority project takes precedent over a fun one!

Even after several homes and many home improvements, this was our first roof project.  After (exhaustive) research, some things I learned and questions to ask of roofers (or contractors) you interview.

1.  Licensed and Insured?  Ask for proof.
2. References?  Request several and check them.
3. How long have the employees worked for the company?  If the answer is more than several years, you’ll know the contractor likely pays their crew a fair wage and has good business practices.
4. Shingle type?  Color and style should be up to you, but every roofer should have a preferred brand.  Ask them what they use and why.  If the roofer says, it doesn’t matter, think again.
5. How many feet of ice and water shield?  Check local code (your roofing contractor will know), but more is better in snowy regions.  We added extra above the dormer window due to the low roof pitch.
6. Itemize it!  Request an itemized estimate.  Chimney flashing and gutters may not be included and should be inspected (and if necessary replaced) during the the roofing process.
7. Clean up.  Roofing is messy.  Nails, asphalt, tar and more.  Ask what the contractor’s protocol is for clean up.  A magnetic roller is the only way to guarantee a thorough job.

Glamorous, no, practical yes!  Process and finished product below.  And yes, highly recommend Chris from Able Roofing.