Roofing services

Choosing the right roofing contractor for your job will make a huge difference in the quality of work undertaken, and may save you money in the long run.

Ashbrook Roofing supplies and supports many national and independent roofing contractors throughout the UK. For trouble free installation we recommend the use of accredited installers who have passed either an industry or government audit, and who offer independent guarantees against product and installation failure (holding a third party guarantee will still protect you even if the company you choose to install your roof becomes insolvent).

Our current favourite resources for choosing a roofing contractor include the following:

• National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC).
• TrustMark (endorsed by the Government and Consumer Protection groups).
• County Council run Trusted Trader schemes (not to be confused with private directories run on a profit basis).

Our top ten tips for helping you choose the right roofer to undertake your work are:

1. Make a shortlist of 3-5 local roofing companies to contact. By all means listen to friends and families recommendations, but qualify this with recommendations from organisations like the NFRC and TrustMark.
2. Choose roofers with the skills and experience that match the type of work you need undertaken (there is a wealth of difference between Flat Roofing and Pitched Roofing, Heritage and Modern).
3. Choose roofers backed by insurance and 3^rd party warranties.
4. Use the internet to gather data and feedback about your shortlisted roofing companies. Be pragmatic whilst reading odd negative comments or 100% perfect scores.
5. Write out a list of your requirements and talk these through with each contractor. Ensure that when they respond to you with a quote, that each of your requirements has been addressed.
6. If you are looking for a re-roof, or a new roof for a house extension please take the time to explore roofing products and roofing material options (it is surprising to us how many people will spend days ensuring they have the right set of taps for their kitchen sink, yet take the first slate or tile choice offered to them).
7. Request a quote in writing from each contractor. Request that they are broken down into sub categories such as scaffolding, materials (e.g. roofing slate, roofing felt and roof window types) and labour so you can compare like with like.
8. Ensure the materials quoted for are up to the task. Ask for the product name, specification (and a sample) of the materials to be used (and ensure you have a warrantee).
9. Explaining key dates to your roofer is important, as are any special instructions (e.g. wheelchair access into the house may impact on how scaffolding is laid out). Remember to ask for a date of when the work can be done and have this confirmed in writing when you agree to the contract.
10. Working on a roof is a dangerous occupation. Expect to pay for scaffolding, insurance backed contractors and at least two people working on the job at all times.