In recent years, the roofing industry in Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA) has become increasingly crowded, with a surge of new contractors and service providers. It seems that almost anyone can claim to be a roofer these days. From out-of-area contractors advertising on Google, to subcontractors starting their own roofing businesses, to general contractors and builders outsourcing roofing jobs, the market has become flooded with options. Even excavators, landscapers, professional marketers, power washers, and plumbers have jumped into the roofing business.
While the variety of options may seem like a positive development, it has created an environment of uncertainty for homeowners. The influx of roofing providers raises questions about the quality of workmanship, materials, and warranties—critical factors when making decisions about something as important as a roof replacement.
The Shift in Roofing Services: What Has Changed?
In the past, homeowners would have the opportunity to meet the roofer who would provide the quote and then oversee the actual work. There was transparency and direct communication throughout the project. However, that is no longer the norm. In today’s market, homeowners are often dealing with a salesperson, an estimator, or sometimes, no one at all—with little to no direct interaction with the person responsible for performing the work.
Who Is Actually Installing Your Roof?
An alarming trend in the industry is that subcontractors, often from outside the area, are typically the ones performing the roof installation. Many of these subcontractors come from diverse backgrounds, such as Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Ecuador, and others. While these crews often undergo some form of training, it is not always clear who is leading the team, especially if a foreman or key crew member is absent. Substandard work practices can go unnoticed by both the homeowner and the main roofing contractor, leading to potential issues like:
- Improper installation of ice and water shields
- Failure to replace damaged plywood
- Lack of proper ventilation
- Incorrect nailing techniques
The Dangers of Inadequate Roof Assessments
Moreover, with the rise of instant roof estimates, many companies provide quotes within an hour—often without setting foot on the property. These estimates are typically done without an in-depth inspection of the roof’s condition, the attic ventilation, or the gutter installation. This lack of a comprehensive evaluation increases the risk of issues being overlooked, leaving homeowners with incomplete or improper work.
The Growing Complexity of Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor
Selecting a reputable roofing contractor is more complicated than ever before. Homeowners are faced with more options, but less clarity about the quality of the service they are receiving. The process of finding a trustworthy roofer requires thorough research, checking credentials, reading reviews, and ensuring the contractor follows proper industry standards.
At the end of the day, the key to a successful roofing project lies in choosing a contractor who can provide not only a fair price but also the professional expertise and accountability necessary to deliver quality work. A contractor who is actively involved in the project, provides proper warranties, and ensures that skilled professionals handle the installation will make all the difference in the long run.
By addressing these concerns, Roof Brokers of NEPA can help guide homeowners through the maze of roofing contractors and provide them with the confidence to make informed decisions.
