The Basics of Roofing

Your roof is an important part of your home. It protects you from weather damage, and it contributes to the aesthetic of your property.

Choosing the best roofing materials requires knowledge of the pros and cons of different types. This blog will help you make the right choice for your needs. Contact Buckeye Roofing of Columbus now!

What Does a Roofer Do? The Work of Roofing Contractors

The need for shelter from the elements dates back to the beginnings of human civilization. The earliest shelters were caves and natural structures, but as people moved about the world they sought more sturdy protection from weather and other dangers. Early roofing materials were simple, using whatever materials could be found locally. In tropical areas, palm fronds were an easy choice, and mud and straw were popular in other regions.

The next big step in roof construction came with the development of thatching, which was a method for weaving together dried vegetation. Thatch roofs were not only water resistant but also offered insulating properties, making them comfortable and durable. However, they were still prone to fire, and required frequent maintenance.

With the advent of clay tiles, first used by the ancient Greeks and Romans, roofing became more sophisticated. These were fired in kilns to make them hard and durable, and interlocking tiles helped protect against wind and rain. By the 1700s, tile roofs were common in many parts of Europe.

When settlers reached America, wood was a popular choice for roofs, whether yellow pine in the South, cypress in Florida or cedar in other regions. By the middle of the 19th century, rot-resistant redwood was a popular roof material throughout much of the country. Rolls of roofing were made from these cedar and other materials, and specialized builders became available for residential and commercial jobs.

In the late 1800s, market conditions changed and coal tar was replaced with petroleum-based roofing products such as asphalt. Then in the 1900s, Henry Reynolds developed a process of cutting up this roofing roll material into shingles to improve its look and reduce fire risk. Today, a variety of different materials are available to meet the needs of every home or business. Regardless of the type of roof you choose, it is important to work with qualified, professional roofing contractors to ensure that your roof provides years of service and protection. That way, your investment will be well worth it.

Materials

When you’re planning a roof, there are many different types of roofing materials to choose from. The type you choose will depend on the appearance you want, longevity, and material costs. Most importantly, your roof should be designed to suit the architectural style of your home and the climate where you live. The right choice of roofing materials will protect your home from the elements and improve its energy efficiency.

The most common roofing materials are shingles, metal, and concrete. Shingles are made of a variety of materials, including wood, clay, asphalt, and slate. They provide a good level of insulation and resist abrasions and fire. Wood shingles and shakes offer a natural look to a roof, which can enhance the value of your home. They are also durable, though they can deteriorate quickly under heavy winds and hail.

Metal roofing is a relatively new option that provides excellent protection against weather damage. It can be made from galvanized steel, aluminum-zinc alloy called Galvalume, or copper. It’s a popular choice in areas with high wildfire risk, as well as for use on low-sloped roofs. It’s available in a range of colors and has a lifespan of 50 to 100 years.

Concrete tiles are similar to those of clay but provide a more modern, sleek appearance. They’re heavy, however, so they require additional framing to support them. They’re long-lasting, but require regular maintenance to keep them watertight.

Built-up roofing (BUR) is a cost-effective, durable roof. It consists of three to five layers of bitumen-coated organic felt, polyester felt, or coated fiberglass felts. The layers are bonded together with hot asphalt, coal tar pitch, or a cold-applied adhesive. The layering can be covered with mineral granules or a reflective coating to reduce solar heat absorption and extend the life of the roof.

Other common roofing materials include EPDM membrane, TPO membrane, and PVC membrane. These come in large sheets, minimizing the need for seams. They’re usually glued to the surface of the roof deck and last 10-15 years. Rubber shingles are an alternative to asphalt shingles and come in a wide range of colors. They’re a sustainable, eco-friendly roofing option that comes with a warranty and can mimic the appearance of more expensive materials.

Shapes and styles

Roofing comes in a variety of shapes and styles. These roofs can add a unique aesthetic to the building and offer an opportunity for home owners to boost natural light in their homes.

The most common shape is the gable roof. These roofs are shaped like triangles and often feature a peak in the middle. They are popular among Colonial and Greek Revival architecture. They are also popular with modern homes and can be accented by dormers, which are small roofed extrusions with windows.

Another eye-catching style is the butterfly roof. This is a variation of the traditional gable roof that emulates the wings of a butterfly using two tandem pieces of roofing. This type of roof can help to enhance the beauty of a building as well as provide an environmentally-friendly way to harvest rainwater.

Installation

A roof is the shield that protects a home or commercial space from the elements, so it’s important to install it correctly. Hiring a professional ensures that the proper safety protocols are followed when working on rooftops and that the chosen material is up to code. Additionally, professionals are familiar with local building codes and can recommend options that meet structural integrity and energy efficiency requirements.

The most common types of roofing are shingle, metal, and tile. Each has its own pros and cons in terms of cost, durability, longevity, and fire resistance.

Shingle roofs are the most affordable and easiest to install. They also offer good weather protection and are relatively low maintenance. Metal roofs are more expensive and require specialized installation. Tile roofs are durable and long-lasting, but they can be heavy and difficult to install. The valleys of your roof are especially vulnerable to water damage, so it’s important to waterproof these areas properly. This is done with underlayment and felt paper. Other points that may need extra protection or system integration are pipe boots and drip edge.

The Benefits of Metal Roofing

Metal Roofing Winston Salem is more than just a stylish roof; it increases a home’s resale value and offers homeowners numerous benefits. It is durable and energy efficient, protecting homes from hurricanes, hail, and fire.

The biggest enemy of bare steel is corrosion, but the invention of galvanized and galvalume coatings limit this problem. Copper and aluminum are also less susceptible to rust, while stainless steel is virtually rust-free.

Rib vs. Corrugated Roof Analysis

Metal roofs can last 50 or more years without the need for repairs or replacements, and they can withstand gusts of wind up to 140 miles per hour. They’re also fire resistant, reducing the risk of structural damage and property loss in the event of an accident. They can help keep indoor temperatures regulated, too, which can save property owners on energy costs.

Metal roofing’s durability and longevity are often its most attractive qualities to commercial, industrial, or facility management property owners seeking eco-friendly construction materials that will stand the test of time. The roofing material can resist corrosion, dents, and mildew, making it a great choice for areas with harsh weather conditions. Metal roofing is also highly reflective, helping reduce the need for excessive cooling during hot seasons. It can even help to cut down on energy costs by 10-25%.

The durability of metal roofing can be increased by choosing the right material for the specific climate and by following regular maintenance procedures. For example, steel options, such as galvanized or Galvalume, are ideal for regions with frequent storms and harsh salt exposure, while copper and aluminum roofing is more suitable for warmer climates.

Durability can also be improved by utilizing roof trims and fasteners that are designed to withstand specific environmental conditions. For instance, using metal screws instead of wood or plastic ones can make a significant difference in how long they last. Regular inspections can also ensure that the roof is secure and that there are no leaks or exposed fasteners.

The versatility of metal roofing means that it can be designed to complement nearly any building style. It can be installed in traditional vertical ribbed panels or a standing seam style, or manufactured to resemble tile, cedar shakes, or any number of other designs. In addition, the roofing materials can be factory coated to protect against UV rays and extreme weather conditions.

Even though a metal roof is more durable than most roofing types, the surface can still be prone to scratching and scuffing. If these imperfections are found, the roofing contractor should be notified immediately to ensure that the issue is addressed before it becomes worse. Scratches or scuffs that are not accompanied by gouges or holes should be repaired with touch-up paint or a coating system that is similar to the color of the existing roofing material.

Energy Efficiency

Modern metal roofing isn’t just durable and long-lasting; it also delivers exceptional energy efficiency. The reason for this lies in the material’s reflective properties, which help keep interior temperatures more regulated throughout the year and save money on energy bills.

While asphalt shingles absorb and hold heat, forcing air conditioning systems to work overtime to cool homes and buildings, metal roofs reflect radiant heat, thereby significantly cutting cooling costs. This is especially true for light-colored metal roofing, which is the most effective at reflecting rays (with white and some newly developed “cool colors” leading the pack).

In addition to their reflectivity, metal roofs also cool down quickly once the sun goes down. This allows them to better protect the attic from the sun’s harsh rays and further reduce energy consumption.

Aside from improving energy efficiency, metal roofs also do a better job at insulating buildings. In fact, they outperform shingle roofs by up to 40 percent during summer. This is because they are more effective at preventing heat from penetrating the building’s structure and escaping into the attic space.

Furthermore, the insulating capabilities of metal roofing are enhanced by their fire resistance ratings and reflective coatings. This makes them a good option for homeowners and businesses that want to lower their carbon footprint and cut down on energy bills.

Moreover, many metal roofs are manufactured using recycled materials, and they can be fully recyclable at the end of their lifespans. This is in stark contrast to traditional asphalt shingles, which can contain toxic chemicals like arsenic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

When it comes to minimizing a home or business’s environmental impact, the roof is one of the most important areas to focus on. In addition to reducing energy consumption, metal roofs provide superior protection from snow, wind, hail, and other weather elements.

And they also offer an array of color options to complement the look of any property, from classic to contemporary. However, if you’re looking to minimize your environmental impact even further, consider opting for an insulation-boosting radiant barrier underlayment in conjunction with your new metal roof. This will not only increase your home’s energy efficiency, but it will also prevent unwanted water intrusion and ice dams that can lead to costly repairs down the line.

Aesthetics

Metal roofing offers an array of design options that provide homeowners with the ability to embody their architectural uniqueness. The expansive color palette makes it easy to integrate your roofing into your home’s exterior while complementing the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the availability of textured finishes allows you to choose a shade that complements your home’s siding and other aesthetic elements.

The vast range of design possibilities that exist for modern metal roofs is limited only by your imagination. While many people associate a metal roof with rectangular corrugated sheets or industrial standing seams, advances in manufacturing and onsite rollforming allow for the creation of custom shapes. As a result, modern and contemporary buildings can seamlessly integrate curved metal panels into their structure.

Whether your preference is for the classic sophistication of earthy tones or the vibrant beauty of blues and greens, the colors available for metal roofs make it easy to coordinate your roofing with your overall building exterior. In addition to aesthetics, the color of your roofing can have an impact on energy efficiency. Lighter colors tend to reflect sunlight rather than absorb it, which can reduce your cooling costs during warmer months.

When choosing a metal roof, it’s important to consider the climate in your area. The Pittsburgh, PA region experiences a harsh winter with heavy snowfall and hot, humid summers. For this reason, selecting a roof that can withstand the conditions is critical to durability and longevity. A granular-coated or emissive-painted metal roof can significantly reduce your home’s heating and cooling expenses while providing superior protection against hail, sleet, and other damaging debris.

Aesthetics aside, a metal roof can offer a host of benefits that enhance your home’s functionality and curb appeal. For example, skylights and dormers can increase usable space in the upper levels of your home while bringing in natural light. The ability to incorporate architectural elements into the design of your metal roof also increases its longevity.

While the functional advantages of metal roofing are significant, its visual appeal is equally captivating. The glistening beauty of a modern metal roof adds a striking allure to any structure, while blending with its architectural features to transform it into an artistic masterpiece.

Maintenance

Metal roofs are known for their durability and longevity, but that doesn’t mean they are completely problem-proof. Just like any other component of a home or building, regular maintenance is the best way to catch and address potential issues before they become serious and costly. Even something as simple as a cracked pipe boot can lead to water penetration and cause damage to the ceiling inside if it’s ignored. The key is to have a plan in place that includes periodic inspections and routine maintenance performed by a professional.

Leaks are one of the most common issues that can occur on any roof type, and metal is no exception. It is very important to keep an eye out for water leaks and other signs of potential problems, such as mildew or rust, and have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

The best way to keep a metal roof looking its best is to have it regularly cleaned and maintained by a professional. This not only helps it retain its beauty, but can also extend the life of the roof by keeping dirt and debris from settling on the surface and wearing down the protective coatings.

A professional can also inspect the flashing around any chimneys, vents or other roof penetration points to make sure they are secure and properly fastened. These areas are often a point of leak development, especially if the flashing is worn or damaged.

Scratches and dents can also develop on metal roofs, but if these are addressed right away they should not be a major issue. Some scratches can be touched up with a touch-up paint pen, while others may need to be replaced.

It is also a good idea to have nearby trees professionally trimmed to reduce the risk of branches scratching or scuffing the roof surface. Also, it’s a good idea to have gutter systems regularly cleaned to avoid clogs and the accumulation of leaves and other debris that could potentially corrode the metal or allow water to enter the home. Lastly, it is recommended to have the sealants and coatings on a metal roof re-applied after 5 to 10 years or as specified by the manufacturer.

How Common Roof Repair Problems Can Destroy Your Home Or Business

Roof Repair

A roof is a critical part of any structure. Without it, your home or business would quickly deteriorate from the elements. Damaged roofs can cause leaks, mold growth, animal infestation, and lower resale value.Roof Repair

Regular inspections are crucial to spotting roofing problems before they become significant problems.

A sound shingle roof needs a good layer of granules to offer UV, impact, and corrosion protection. But a number of common problems can rob your top of this vital layer.

Unsealed shingles are vulnerable to moisture and can allow water to seep into your home. Isolated cracks in shingles may be repaired with relative ease, but widespread shingle damage can signal the need for a full roof replacement.

Blistering is a more serious problem that causes dark stains on your roof. This symptom often points to inadequate ventilation in your attic or a deteriorating underlayment that’s allowing the heat of your home to melt the asphalt shingles.

Damaged shingles can also curl, creating an ugly, uneven appearance. Curling is often caused by a combination of factors, including high winds, improper installation, or poor ventilation. If left uncorrected, these problems can lead to leaks and other problems in your attic and throughout the house.

When shingles develop a concave center, or cup, the shingle becomes unstable and can eventually leak into your home. Cupped shingles also leave standing water that can cause mold and mildew, and the moisture can penetrate into your attic.

A common repair involves installing a new shingle over the old one. To do this, slide a flat pry bar under the damaged shingle and pry it loose. Carefully peel back the shingle layer above it, and use a catspaw pry bar to break the seal with the shingle underneath (this will require you to go two shingles up-roof). Pull out the damaged shingle and replace it with a new one. Use a caulking gun to inject roofing tar beneath the shingle for extra support.

If you’re replacing a badly torn shingle, it’s important to match the color of the replacement with your existing shingles. This can be tricky, but it’s often possible to camouflage the repair by examining the gutter for colored granules that have washed down from your roof. If you find a matching granule, you can sprinkle it over the new shingle to hide the repair.

Damaged Flashing

Flashing is a thin material that prevents water from seeping around chimneys, vents, skylights and other roof penetrations. It is commonly made from metals such as galvanized steel, copper or aluminum and helps to keep moisture away from these areas of the roof. Flashing is designed to be tough, but it can show signs of damage over time due to exposure to harsh weather conditions such as hail, acid rain and severe winds. In coastal neighborhoods, exposure to salt air can also degrade roof flashings.

Flashing problems range from small cracks and holes to rusted through or bent sections. It is important to watch for any discoloration on the wall or ceiling near where roof flashing is installed and also leaks during rainfall. Small holes may be easily repaired with roofing cement or roof caulk, but if left untreated, these tiny holes will turn into larger ones that allow rainwater to seep into the home.

In addition, a leaking roof can lead to corrosion of the flashing, which is a problem that requires a professional repair service. Faulty flashing can cause water to corrode through the shingles and into the attic, causing mold and mildew. It is also possible for a leak to run down the interior walls and into rooms that are not directly under the leaking flashing.

Even though it is not always possible to spot a problem with the flashing from the ground, it is important to have an annual visual inspection by a professional roofer to check for any damage or areas where moisture may be getting in. The expert roofer will be able to recommend a thorough repair for any areas of concern.

If the roof flashing is completely compromised, it will need to be replaced. It is important to have a professional replace the flashing immediately to ensure that moisture does not get into the attic and other parts of the home. The roofer will remove the affected shingles, expose the flashing and then install a new section of flashing that is properly sealed to the roof deck.

Damaged Pipes

Pipes that burst are one of the most destructive problems a homeowner can face. Leaking pipes cause water damage to walls, floors, ceilings, and furniture, and can also lead to mold and mildew that require expensive repairs. The longer a leaking pipe is left unattended, the more severe the problem will be. This is why it’s important to take action as soon as you notice a leaky pipe in your home or business.

There are a few ways to fix a damaged pipe, depending on where it is located. If the pipe is in a wall or ceiling, it may be possible to access it without opening any walls or removing any finish materials. In this case, you can use a pipe repair clamp or silicone or rubber seal tape to stop the leak. This is a temporary repair and should only be used until a plumber can arrive to evaluate the situation and make a more permanent repair.

If the pipe is outside, you can turn off the water using a local shutoff switch or the main water supply valve. Once the water is off, you can remove any waterlogged items and clean up the area around the pipe. Then, apply epoxy putty to the damaged pipe and joint. Make sure the area is completely dry before applying epoxy, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and curing times.

Once the epoxy is cured, you can reconnect the pipe. If the pipe is exposed, you can use a coupling to connect it to the replacement pipe. If the pipe is behind a wall or ceiling, you will need to use a drywall saw to cut out the affected section of drywall and gain access to the pipe. After you have removed the drywall, use plumber’s flux to prepare the surface of the new coupling and the end of the replacement pipe. Then, solder the joints together.

A more permanent solution is to replace the damaged section of pipe with a new piece of PVC pipe. Before you start, you will need to shut off the water supply and make sure the old pipe is fully disconnected from all fittings. Then, use a gas torch to heat the copper pipe and the replacement coupling until they melt together. Next, feed solder into the joint and continue until it is filled with a smooth, watertight seal. Once the joints are sealed, you can reconnect the water supply and turn the water back on.

Damaged Soffit

Soffits are a crucial part of any sloped roof, acting as the skin that covers a roof’s eaves. They do a variety of tasks, such as protecting the inner roofing structure from moisture damage, helping with attic ventilation through small perforations, and supporting rain gutters that help keep water away from the fascia boards.

If you see soffit signs of damage, such as rot or a dark coloration, it is important to repair the damaged area promptly. Otherwise, you could experience serious structural problems that would require more costly repairs in the future.

Depending on the severity of the soffit damage, you may need to replace entire sections. This isn’t a project for a beginner, especially in older homes where builders used solid wood soffits. If you’re repairing a soffit in such a case, it’s best to hire a professional carpenter.

The soffit is located below the edge of the roof overhang, and it’s usually connected to the fascia with screws or nails. The soffit is a good place to start your roof repair because it is the first area of your roof that will show obvious signs of wear and tear, such as rot or discoloration.

You’ll also want to check the fascia board underneath the soffit for signs of wear and tear. A rotting or warped fascia can lead to further problems down the road, including leaks and water infiltration. Look for rot, dark discoloration or even cracks and chips on the fascia board.

The soffit is also home to different types of animals and pests, such as squirrels, rats, birds and more. Look for gnaw marks, droppings and nesting materials to find out if the soffit is infested by any of these creatures. They can wreak havoc in the attic and throughout the house if not dealt with promptly.

Things to Look for When Choosing Roofing Contractors

Roofing

While building maintenance staff is usually aware of the roof and its needs, there is no substitute for the expertise of a professional Roofing Contractor. Many of them are busy with other tasks and may not have the time to climb onto the roof. Although obvious problems can be quickly diagnosed, other issues may not be so apparent. Colorado Springs Roofing Contractor are trained to spot problems in a timely manner. Here are some things to look for when choosing a Roofing Contractor.Roofing

Some jobs are more demanding than others, and specialists have a specific set of skills. Specialization allows workers to specialize in a particular area, and this type of job is often associated with higher pay and greater internal power. In many cases, specialization also makes it easier for people to learn a new job. Specialists also have more flexibility and autonomy in their roles, as they are usually more skilled than generalists.

Job specialization also boosts morale among employees. Employees who specialize in a certain part of the job tend to band together in a positive team mentality. Ultimately, this leads to improved performance and less stress on the job. For this reason, employers often invest time and resources into hiring and training employees with specialized skill sets. When employees feel like they have an advantage over their co-workers, it’s better for their morale.

They have workers’ compensation and liability insurance.

The two types of business insurance include liability and workers’ compensation. The former pays compensation to employees for work-related injuries, while the latter protects the employer from lawsuits for legal liability. Workers’ compensation policies also cover injuries or damages that occur outside of work. The cost of these insurance policies depends on a variety of factors, including the number of employees, payroll, industry, and history of claims. General liability insurance is generally more expensive than workers’ compensation insurance.

Workers’ compensation insurance pays benefits to injured employees, despite the fact that they waive their right to sue their employers. The benefits typically include hospitalization, physical therapy, rehab, and disability income. Unfortunately, workers’ compensation insurance does not cover injuries that occur to independent contractors. It is therefore important for employers to purchase liability and workers’ compensation insurance to protect their businesses from these unfortunate situations. However, businesses should also consider whether this insurance is necessary for their business.

They provide written estimates.

Roofing contractors should provide customers with a written estimate for their roofing project. This document helps the customer understand what the work will entail, how much the job will cost, and what their options are. A good estimate also avoids surprises and ensures that the customer understands the difference between the different options and how much they will cost. Furthermore, providing customers with an estimate will make them more likely to hire the Roofing Contractor. In short, a good estimate should be part of a roofing contractor’s service.

Roofing estimates should include details about the scope of the project, start and end dates, costs, and a guarantee. They should also include any additional fees, such as permits if any, and the cleanup process after the job is completed. A thorough estimate will include these details as well as the amount and date of the final payment. You can also expect the contractor to include a full description of the work that needs to be completed, as well as the materials used and any additional costs that may occur as the project progresses.

The written estimate should also contain insurance and license information, which are both important considerations before hiring a Roofing Contractor. A reputable company won’t hire a person based solely on an estimate, so always check their business license and review online reviews to ensure they have adequate insurance to cover any unexpected costs. Besides, you should also ask about the insurance coverage of the Roofing Contractor, as this is the only way to make sure they are adequately insured and have the required licenses and permits.

If your insurance company requires a written estimate, a good roofer should also provide you with an explanation of the different types of roofing materials and the differences between them. You should ask about any warranties offered by the Roofing Contractor, as they are your protection in the event of a major accident. The warranty should also state how long the roof will last and whether or not it can be transferred to another homeowner. If your insurance company issues a check prior to the completion of the work, a written estimate is necessary.

Find a Roofing Contractor near you.

A reliable roofing contractor will know how to get the necessary permits and paperwork. One thing to pay attention to is insurance. While accidents can happen without warning, no one wants to be held responsible for them. Check to make sure your contractor has liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance, and ask to see their insurance documents. You’ll have a better idea of their reliability if they have all of these policies. This article will cover the important details you need to know about roofing contractors.

While the cost to enter the roofing industry is not high, there are a lot of people who don’t have the proper training and are deceptive. If you want to avoid being scammed, find a contractor who has completed a variety of projects for other people. Ask to see proof of their certifications and licensing to make sure they’re trustworthy. Once you’ve done this, you’ll know which contractor to use for your roofing project.

Check online reviews

When looking for a roofer to help with your next roof project, you can check out online reviews. The truth is that consumers are usually the most honest about their experiences with products and services. This makes it crucial to read these reviews before hiring a roofing contractor. However, you should remember to take online reviews with a grain of salt – sometimes, these reviews are exaggerated. Nonetheless, they will give you some idea about the quality of work you can expect from the company.

Usually, the roofing contractor will ask if customers can publish a single review on different platforms. Those review platforms will require customers to sign in and leave a review. While some businesses may try to replicate the same review across multiple platforms, this is not a smart strategy. A better strategy is to vary your review solicitation. You should also avoid roofing companies that offer financial incentives to provide positive reviews. Google has cracked down on unethical review generation, so beware.

Ask friends and neighbors.

Before choosing a roofing contractor, you should ask around for recommendations. Roofing material suppliers can also provide references. Check reviews and search for references on the Internet. Be sure to choose a reputable company and avoid the storm chaser variety. In addition, ask for references from past customers. A roofing contractor with a good reputation and a long track record is the best choice. However, this may not be the case with every roofing contractor.

It is best to seek recommendations from family, friends, and neighbors. While it may be intimidating to ask people you know, they can be a good resource. Visiting a neighbor’s roof or knocking on their door is a great way to learn about a contractor’s skills. Ask if they’ve had experience working with the contractor and, if so, who they hired. Manufacturer certification is a good indicator of a trustworthy, reputable, and reliable contractor.

Get three quotes

Getting three estimates from different roofing contractors is a great idea. Not only will you be able to compare prices, but you will also be ensuring you get the best value for your money. Get three estimates from different contractors so that you can choose the one who is right for you. However, you should remember that this process can be overwhelming and stressful. To avoid this, you should only get three quotes. Then, you can compare and contrast them to find the best one for your needs and budget.

After getting three estimates, it is a good idea to get references and check the previous work of each of the contractors. Make sure to check the references and review the company’s work history online. Also, you may want to contact your friends or family members for recommendations. If they have had good experiences with a particular company, it’s likely that they’ll recommend it. And, if you’re not sure, you can always call a previous client for a second opinion.