What to Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor

When it’s time to repair or replace your roof, choosing the right contractor can make all the difference. A well-installed roof protects your home from Calgary’s unpredictable weather, from heavy snow to sudden hailstorms, while keeping your investment secure for decades.

Before signing any contract, take time to ask the right questions. Here’s what every homeowner should know before hiring a Calgary roofing contractor.

10 Things to Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor in Calgary

Are You Licensed, Insured, and Covered by WCB?

Start with the basics. Your roofing contractor should hold a valid Alberta business license, carry liability insurance, and provide proof of Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) coverage for every crew member. This ensures you’re protected in case of on-site accidents or damage during the project.

How Long Have You Been Serving Calgary Homeowners?

Experience matters, especially in a city where roofing must withstand chinooks, hail, and rapid freeze-thaw cycles. Ask how long they’ve been operating locally and what roofing materials they recommend for Calgary’s climate. With 46 years in the industry, a seasoned local company like Lincoln Exteriors understands what works best here, and what doesn’t.

What Materials Do You Recommend, and Why?

A good contractor will walk you through the pros and cons of each roofing material, including:

1. Asphalt shingles, the most common and cost-effective option
2. Metal or rubber roofing for superior durability and energy efficiency
3. Underlayment flashings, and ventilation systems that extend your roof’s lifespan

If the contractor struggles to explain these details, that’s a red flag.

What’s Included in the Estimate?

A trustworthy roofing estimate should list everything upfront, materials, labour, tear-off, disposal, and potential deck repairs. Transparency matters. Ask how they handle unexpected issues like rotten plywood or hidden leaks, and make sure change orders require your approval before extra costs are added.

What Warranties Do You Offer?

A reliable Calgary roofing contractor will provide both a manufacturer warranty on materials and a workmanship warranty on installation. Confirm what’s covered, for how long, and how claims are processed. At Lincoln Exteriors, we register all manufacturer warranties on your behalf so you’re fully protected.

Will You Inspect My Attic and Ventilation?

Proper ventilation is essential to a roof’s longevity. Before starting, your contractor should inspect your attic for moisture, insulation, and airflow issues. Balanced ventilation prevents ice dams and condensation, two common problems in Calgary homes.

Who Oversees the Project?

Ask who will be on-site each day and how progress will be communicated. Reputable contractors assign a site supervisor to ensure safety, quality, and daily clean-up. You should never be left wondering who’s responsible for your home.

How Will You Protect My Property?

Professional roofers take pride in leaving your property spotless. Look for a contractor who uses tarps, covers your landscaping, and performs daily magnet sweeps for nails. Your driveway, siding, and garden should be as clean as they were before the work began.

Can I See References or Local Projects?

Ask for recent Calgary references and photos of completed roofs in your neighborhood. Reading reviews and speaking to past clients helps you understand the company’s professionalism and reliability.

What’s the Payment Schedule?

Be cautious of large upfront deposits. A reputable Calgary roofing contractor like Lincoln Exteriors will outline a clear payment schedule with a small deposit, progress payments, and a final balance after inspection, and may also offer flexible financing options to make your project more affordable.

Red Flags to Watch Out For When Hiring a Roofing Contractor

When comparing roofing companies, pay attention to signs that something might not be right. A few red flags can help you avoid costly mistakes and unreliable contractors.

Be cautious of anyone who:

• Asks for a large cash deposit upfront or pressures you to sign immediately.
• Avoids providing written estimates or vague, one-line quotes without details.
• Lacks proof of insurance, licenses, or WCB coverage.
• Won’t provide local references or examples of past work.
• Uses high-pressure sales tactics or promises unrealistic discounts for “today only.”
• Doesn’t communicate clearly or avoids answering questions directly.

Trustworthy Calgary roofing contractors, are transparent, fully insured, and focused on customer satisfaction. They’ll provide clear contracts, walk you through every step of the project, and stand behind their work long after your roof is complete.

Work With a Trusted Calgary Roofing Contractor

Your roof is one of your home’s most important investments, and you deserve to feel confident in who you hire. At Lincoln Exteriors, we combine professional craftsmanship with clear communication and a commitment to protecting your property every step of the way.

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