What It Takes to Be a Roofer

There’s much more to roofing than what you see on top of a building. A professional roofing contractor needs to check quite a few boxes before he or she can be considered trustworthy, skilled, and reputable. It’s not easy work, but it is incredibly rewarding–roofers play an essential role in protecting the residents, employees, equipment, and products within a building. You need more than a ladder, a hammer, and a truck to do that. Here are the essentials:

Know-how:

A good roofing contractor has a thorough knowledge of the industry. He or she is aware of and stays current on national and local regulations, ever-evolving code requirements, and how the bidding process works. Quality professionals are experts on roofing industry trends and are able to work with customers to find the best possible solutions to a wide range of roofing problems, sometimes even thinking outside the box. They develop relationships with other professionals in the industry so they can learn from each other. They know the business, they know the people in the business, and, ideally, they have a good deal of experience doing the work.

Financial backing:

A roofing contractor must have the significant financial backing required to support the purchase and proper maintenance of quality equipment, employee payroll, payroll taxes, and insurance. Employees and bills must be paid, even if customers haven’t paid the company for its work yet. A strong financial foundation is critical to the long-term success of a roofing contractor.

Licensure:

A roofing contractor must follow state requirements for the company to be licensed in the state in which it operates. In Illinois, each licensed roofing contractor must have a qualifying party as the person who takes an exam to demonstrate an understanding of safety protocols, general roofing preparations, materials, and different roofing systems. A high-quality business will also be bonded and insured to protect both themselves and the customers they serve. To be licensed in Illinois, a commercial roofing contractor must provide information about the company and its workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance; post a bond; and provide proof of property damage and personal injury insurance.

A well-trained, safety-minded crew:

A reputable contractor will seek, train, and continually develop skilled workers. Employees must be trained in technical skills, customer relations, and safety, an essential area for individuals who work on roofs day in and day out. They must know the various manufacturers and their roofing materials well, pay attention to detail, and be aware of their surroundings at all times. They know how to use their personal protective equipment and use it without fail. A skilled roofing company will install a watertight roof the first time, and if any problems arise with the work they’ve done, they will address them. All of this reflects the expectations of the roofing contractor, who sets the tone and sets the bar high.

Not just anyone has what it takes to be good at this job. When looking for a professional roofing contractor, seek out a company that goes above and beyond the basic requirements. You won’t regret choosing experience, expertise, and a commitment to excellence.

EXPERIENCE YOU CAN COUNT ON

Ridgeworth Roofing has been in the commercial roofing business for more than 43 years. Our talented tradesmen love what they do and take their work seriously, always striving to learn and improve upon their craft. From high-level skills to high standards of safety, Ridgeworth is ready to serve your commercial roofing needs.

Contact us today.

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