As spring approaches, it’s time to start thinking about re-roofing your commercial building. Whether you’re currently experiencing leaks or want to ensure your roof is ready for warmer weather, choosing a qualified commercial roofer is important.
Roofers construct and repair roofs and use a variety of hand tools and equipment. They also install insulation systems and vapor barriers. Commercial roofers work on structures ranging from one-story mom-and-pop shops to skyscrapers. Although they have some common skills with residential roofers, they require specialized training in roofing construction, installation, and maintenance. They must also be comfortable working at heights.
While many roofers learn on the job, some take part in an apprenticeship program to gain hands-on experience and learn the trade from experienced contractors. An apprenticeship can last up to three years, and upon completion, the apprentice receives a roofer’s license. Some roofers choose to remain with their employer, which can give them valuable experience and the chance to advance within the company. Others opt to start their own roofing business.
Most states require roofers to have a contractor’s license, which shows that they meet minimum standards for the type of work they perform. This helps protect consumers and ensures that roofing contractors are competent and reliable. In addition, it’s important to find out whether your locality has additional licensing requirements. For example, in rural areas, it isn’t unusual for local building departments to require a permit when a roofer does a significant amount of work on a commercial property.
Many roofers are certified by one or more roofing/building construction manufacturers, which demonstrates their dedication to industry standards. While these certifications are not required by all states, they can be an indication of a roofer’s expertise and credibility.
Roofers are physically fit and have a high level of endurance to work long hours at a time in extreme weather conditions. They also must be comfortable climbing ladders and lifting heavy materials up to the roof and down again. This can be difficult for some people, so a career as a roofer is not the right choice for everyone.
Finally, it’s crucial that a roofer is knowledgeable and proficient in reading blueprints and understanding the intricacies of building construction. They should also be able to communicate effectively with clients and be able to resolve issues on site.
Certifications
There are a few different types of certifications that roofers can earn. Some are professional designations while others are required by law. Regardless, certifications show that the roofer is serious about their profession and has made an investment in their career. These certifications can help potential customers make an informed decision when choosing a contractor.
In addition to professional certifications, roofers should hold a valid license to operate in their area. This is a sign that the roofing company follows all local and state rules and regulations, and will keep their workers safe during the project. Additionally, a licensed roofer will provide a written contract that details the work to be done and how long it will take.
The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) offers a number of certification courses for commercial roofers. These courses are designed to teach roofers about proper installation techniques and other aspects of the industry. Those who complete these courses are qualified to install the majority of roofing systems. They are also eligible to participate in the NRCA’s ProCertification program, which provides a way for commercial roofers to demonstrate their commitment to professionalism and quality.
Roofing is a dangerous job, and commercial roofers are dedicated to it full time. This means that they have the skills and knowledge to stay safe on the roof, which is a significant advantage over general contractors. These roofers can also offer a faster turnaround on repairs because they focus solely on roofing services.
Many states require roofers to register, earn a license or both. These requirements vary from state to state. Some registries simply require that a roofer pass an exam and pay a fee, while others offer a licensing process that is more rigorous.
The NRCA’s CERTA is a certification course for commercial roofers who use torches on their jobs. This course trains roofers on the proper use of torches and teaches them about fire-safe roofing configurations. It is a valuable training tool for commercial roofers, and can help them build a successful career in the industry. Other important certifications include the NFPA’s OSHA-10, which is a 10 hour safety course that covers basic information that all construction workers should have.
Experience
A commercial roofing contractor who has extensive experience in the field is more likely to be capable of handling the complexities of a commercial project. He or she will be able to work quickly and efficiently, minimizing the time it takes for the job to be completed. They will also be able to accommodate special requirements that are unique to commercial buildings, such as the addition of solar panels or vents.
A reputable roofer will be able to provide you with detailed quotes that describe the work to be done and the products that will be used. Inquire about any warranties that may be offered. It’s important to choose a company that offers competitive rates but still has the experience and expertise you require.
It’s also essential to check whether or not the roofer is insured. Inquire about the level of insurance coverage and whether it includes workers’ compensation and general liability. This will ensure that you’re protected in case any injuries occur during the course of the project.
Choosing a reputable commercial roofer is important because a poorly constructed roof can lead to significant structural damage that could result in expensive repair costs. The best way to protect your business is to find a roofer with enough experience and the right qualifications.
A good commercial roofer should be able to provide you with testimonials from previous clients and a portfolio of their past work. This will help you determine whether or not they’re a good fit for your needs. Additionally, it’s a good idea to ask about their safety practices and if they take workplace regulations seriously.
Lastly, it’s a good idea to get a quote from more than one roofer and compare the prices. It’s also a good idea to choose a company that offers a workmanship guarantee. This will give you peace of mind in knowing that the work will be completed properly and on time. It’s also a good idea for commercial roofers to keep up with any new rules and regulations that the city may introduce. This will allow them to avoid the costly consequences of working outside of the code.
Insurance
Roofing is a dangerous profession, so roofers must carry adequate insurance coverage to protect themselves from costly claims. A licensed commercial agent can assist with finding the best policy for a roofing business.
Depending on the size of the roofing company, different types of policies may be required. Small businesses can often start with a business owner’s policy (BOP), which offers property and general liability coverage for commercial roofing companies. This is sufficient for smaller projects. Larger projects might require a general liability policy with a higher limit or an umbrella policy, which provides additional protection from high-dollar claims.
Liability insurance is crucial for any commercial roofing contractor, and it covers the cost of third-party bodily injury and property damage. It is often purchased through the excess and surplus lines (E&S) market, which specializes in insurance for contractors in high-risk industries.
Workers’ compensation is another type of insurance that’s a must for roofing contractors. If one of your employees gets injured on the job, this policy helps cover medical costs and lost wages. Additionally, it can provide death and disability benefits.
Commercial auto insurance is also important for roofing companies. This coverage can pay for the repair or replacement of your commercial vehicle if it is damaged by an accident or vandalism. It can also protect you against lawsuits if your employee is injured while driving a work-related car or truck.
Lastly, a professional liability policy can help you defend yourself against legal action if your advice leads to a financial loss for a third party. This includes situations where the advice was not practical or unforeseen circumstances rendered it useless. For example, if you recommend a certain brand of shingles and the shingles later fail, your customer could sue you for damages.
A roofing company requires a lot of expensive equipment and materials to complete projects. To avoid losing this investment, commercial property insurance can reimburse you for the value of your tools and materials in the event they are stolen or destroyed. It typically includes coverage for your warehouse, office space, and all the equipment you use in the field.
