The Best Questions to Ask Before Approving a Roof Replacement
Replacing your roof is one of the most significant investments you can make in your home. It impacts your comfort, your resale value, your energy bills, and your peace of mind. With that in mind, it’s crucial not only to choose the right contractor but also to ask the right questions before you sign on the dotted line. At Restoration Roofing, we believe that an informed homeowner is a happy homeowner. Below is a curated checklist of questions that every homeowner should ask before approving a roof replacement—especially in the Memphis area.
1. What’s the condition of my current roof and why is replacement necessary?
Start your discussion by getting a clear summary of why replacement (as opposed to repair) is being recommended. Ask:
Exactly how old is my roof and what is its expected remaining lifespan?
Are there specific signs of damage—such as missing shingles, curling, blistering, granule loss, or sagging decking?
Does the inspection include the attic, roof deck, flashing, ventilation and drains?
Are underlying issues present (deck rot, inadequate ventilation, multiple layers of shingles) that should be addressed before new shingles go on?
When the contractor can walk through these specifics—preferably with photographs and attic access—it gives you confidence their recommendation is based on real conditions, not simply sales.
2. What materials are being used and how do they perform in our climate?
Material choice matters a lot in the Mid‑South. Ask:
Which shingle brand, style and rating (wind resistance, hail resistance) are you recommending?
Do these materials meet or exceed local code requirements and manufacturer standards for our region?
What underlayment, flashing, ice & water barrier, ventilation components are included?
Will the manufacturer warranty be voided if installation or components are not up to their specs?
Because Memphis homes deal with long, humid summers and storm seasons, you’ll want materials built for our roof stressors—sun, humidity, wind and rain.
3. Will you perform a full tear‑off or install over the old roof?
This is a critical question. Some contractors offer lower cost by installing shingles over existing ones (“lay‑over”) but that approach carries risks. Ask:
Will all old shingles and underlayment be removed before installing the new system?
If yes: will the roof deck be inspected, repaired or replaced if needed?
If a lay‑over is recommended: why? What are the trade‑offs in terms of lifespan, warranty, warranty eligibility, and structural load?
A full removal often avoids hidden damage, allows for upgraded materials, and helps your new roof last longer with fewer surprises.
4. What warranties and guarantees do you offer?
Not all “roof replacements” are built equal when it comes to warranties. So clarify:
What material warranty does the manufacturer provide (for shingles, underlayment, vents, etc.)?
What workmanship warranty does your company provide for installation, flashing, cleanup, and warranty claim assistance?
Are warranties transferable if we sell the home?
Will you handle any future warranty claim filing with the manufacturer or provide documentation for us to do so?
A strong warranty shows the contractor stands behind their work—and helps protect your investment.
5. What’s the full cost breakdown and payment schedule?
Transparency in pricing matters. Ask:
Can you provide an itemized estimate (materials, labor, disposal, permits, haul‑away, clean‑up, gutters or ventilation upgrades, etc.)?
What payment schedule do you require? (Ideally minimal upfront deposit, payment mostly upon completion)
What extra or hidden costs might arise (deck replacement, unexpected repairs, up‑charges for steep roofs or special disposal)?
Do you provide financing options or payment terms?
When you understand exactly what you’re paying for—and when you’ll pay—you’re in a stronger position.
6. Who will be performing the work and how will you protect my home?
Knowing how the job will be executed helps you assess reliability and professionalism:
Will your employees perform the bulk of the work, or will subcontractors be used?
How will you protect my landscaping, drive‑way, pool, siding, attic and interior during the job?
What is your cleanup and nail‑pickup process? (Especially important in neighborhoods or homes with pets/children)
What is your schedule? How long will the job take and how will you handle bad weather or scheduling changes?
A contractor who explains process and protection shows attention to detail and respect for your home.
7. How will you handle insurance claims and storm damage if relevant?
If your roof replacement is tied to storm damage or insurance claim, ask:
Have you worked with insurers and adjusters in the region?
Will you help document damage (photos, materials list, code violations) and submit claim paperwork?
If the insurer denies or reduces coverage, what options will we have?
How do you handle discontinued shingles, matching law issues (for Tennessee or matching‑state rules), and long‑term replacement coverage?
These questions ensure you’re protected—not just by the installer but by the process—especially if your home has been impacted by storm damage.
8. What about ventilation, insulation and attic conditions?
A roof is only as strong as the system beneath it. Ask:
Will you inspect attic ventilation (soffit, ridge vents, fans) and recommend upgrades if needed?
If insulation is old or compressed, will you advise or partner with an insulation specialist?
How will you ensure there is no moisture or mold risk in the attic before finalizing the roof job?
Will you check for multiple shingle layers, roof deck damage, or weak fasteners?
When these components are ignored, you may end up with early failure even if the shingles are new.
9. What is the expected timeline and how will you communicate?
Knowing how the project will unfold keeps you prepared and less stressed:
What is the estimated start date and completion date?
Who will be the point of contact during the job for updates or concerns?
How will weather delays be handled? Will tarp‑up be included?
Will you provide a final walkthrough and documentation of the completed job?
Clear communication keeps you in control throughout the process.
10. Can you provide references and examples of your recent work?
Finally—see past results and verify the contractor:
Can you visit recent homes where you’ve done full replacements?
Do you have customer testimonials, reviews online (Google, BBB), and photos of finished jobs?
Were those jobs similar in size, design, and material to mine?
Have you handled issues similar to mine—age, storm damage, ventilation upgrades, insurance claims?
A proven track record in your region (Memphis/Collierville/Germantown) gives you confidence in their work.
Why Asking These Questions Matters in Memphis
Here in Memphis and the Mid‑South, we face unique stresses on roofs: long hot summers, humid conditions, occasional severe weather and storms. That means:
Heat and humidity worsen attic conditions, making ventilation and insulation as important as shingles themselves.
Matching laws and insurance claim rules (especially if you’ve had storm damage) can complicate replacements if materials are discontinued or mismatched.
A sub‑par installation may fail far sooner than expected and cost you more—both in repairs and energy bills.
By asking the right questions, you gain clarity. You protect your home, your budget and your peace of mind.
