Earlier this week our leadership team went to IRE (International Roofing Expo) in Dallas, TX. One of the first things we noticed is there were about twice as many booths offering roof coatings than in previous years.

This tells us that there’s an increased demand for roof coatings and more players are entering the space. Just in the last several months we’e noticed several of our competitors offering roof coatings, however, it’s important to choose a company with the proper training, equipment, and understanding to successfully restore a roof.

As a consumer, how should you be screening commercial roofers for their qualifications and ability to restore your roof?

Here are some things you should look out for when choosing a commercial roofer:

Little or Inaccurate Information on Roof Coatings

Roof coatings takes a deep understanding of available products and proper application. Does the website show an understanding of that? Or are “roof coatings” more mentioned in passing on their Services page.

We think a thorough understanding of commercial roof coatings requires extensive explanations and photos that can back up those claims.

Is there enough information that you feel satisfied knowing they’re an expert in their field?

Check for Previous Work Photos

Stock photos for roof coatings is a dead giveaway that they may not have a lot of experience. Does it look like actual work from that company with team members in branded apparel?

Or does it look more like a manufacturers’ stock image or one from another site? These are tell tale signs that the commercial roofer may not have much first hand experience in roof coatings.

What Services Do They Primarily Advertise

A roofer that primarily works on residential or shingles still may do a decent job at roof coatings, but likely never to the level of someone who primarily only works in roof coatings.

It’s helpful to look through their site and see what services they most represent. Is it mostly residential, shingles? If that’s the case- chances are their people and equipment are set up to specialize in that type of work. (And not necessarily in roof coatings)

Lastly, it’s always useful to ask how many roof coating jobs a company has done. It’s an indisputable way to know if they’re the most experienced company for your roof.

Summary

While most consumers won’t know when a roofing company adds “roof coatings” to their service offerings, there are still ways you can protect yourself from working with an inexperienced company.

Check the reviews, check the website for information, and ask how many roofs they’ve coated to date. All this will ensure you’re protected and can end up working with a qualified commercial roofer.