Finding the right roofing company in Andover can feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack—especially when every contractor promises to be “the best in town.” 🏠
But your roof isn’t something you gamble with. One mistake up there can turn into a nightmare inside your home — leaks, mold, sagging insulation, and repair bills that climb faster than your roofer’s ladder.
So before you sign anything, take a breath. Grab a coffee. Let’s walk through five questions every homeowner should ask before hiring a roofer in Andover, Massachusetts.
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- Are You Licensed and Fully Insured in Massachusetts?
If a contractor can’t hand you proof of a Massachusetts roofing license, that’s your red flag waving in the wind.
Ask to see:
- Contractor license number (verify at Mass.gov)
- Workers’ comp certificate
- General liability insurance (covering at least $1M)
These aren’t “extras” — they’re protection for your home and your wallet. A legit Andover roofing contractor won’t flinch when you ask for proof. In fact, they’ll probably have it ready.
⚙️ Pro tip: Verify the business name matches the insurance certificate exactly. Many shady operators work under different names to dodge accountability.
- How Much Experience Do You Have With Homes Like Mine in Andover?
Andover homes have character — steep roofs, skylights, dormers, and a lot of colonial charm. That also means they’re not cookie-cutter jobs.
Ask your roofer:
- “Have you worked in my neighborhood before?”
- “Can I see photos or addresses of past projects?”
Local experience means they understand ice dams, storm damage, and how to handle roofs under heavy snow loads — problems common in New England weather.
A good answer sounds like:
“We’ve re-roofed about a dozen homes around Phillips Academy and the Shawsheen area — mostly asphalt and metal systems with CertainTeed and GAF warranties.”
That’s someone who’s been up there, not just talking about it.
- What Roofing Materials and Installation Standards Do You Follow?
This is where you separate real professionals from the weekend warriors.
An experienced roofer should explain:
- The brand of shingles (GAF, CertainTeed, Owens Corning)
- The underlayment type (synthetic vs. felt)
- Use of ice and water shield around eaves and valleys
- How they handle flashing installation and roof ventilation
Ask whether they’re a GAF Certified Contractor or CertainTeed Master Shingle Applicator — both indicate training and warranty backing.
🧠 Remember: The best roofing company doesn’t just sell shingles. They sell a roof system designed for Andover’s freeze-thaw cycles.
- How Do You Handle Warranties, Cleanup, and Project Changes?
Warranties aren’t just marketing fluff — they’re your long-term insurance policy.
Your roofer should clearly outline:
- Manufacturer warranty (covers materials)
- Workmanship warranty (covers installation issues)
- Cleanup plan: tarp placement, magnetic nail sweeps, dumpster logistics
If you get vague promises like “Don’t worry, we handle it all,” push for written details. You’re not being difficult — you’re being smart.
📎 Local tip: Ask if they register the manufacturer warranty on your behalf. It’s a small step most homeowners forget.
- Can You Provide a Detailed, Itemized Estimate?
If a roofer slides a single lump-sum quote across the table, that’s a hard no. You need an itemized estimate breaking down:
- Tear-off and disposal
- Sheathing repair (per sheet cost)
- Underlayment and ventilation
- Flashing and ridge caps
- Labor and permit fees
This clarity helps you compare roofing companies in Andover apples-to-apples.
Without it, you’ll never know if the cheaper bid just skipped a few crucial steps.
Bonus: Red Flags to Watch For 🚫
- Cash-only “discounts”
- No written contract
- Unmarked trucks or out-of-state plates
- Pushy door-to-door sales after storms