Roof Inspection Without Waiting for a Leak
Posted on 25. Jan, 2010 by admin in General
Roof problems are recognized at a later stage, only when the damages are done and it starts leaking. No one even knows that their roof is leaking. The homeowners take the roofing problems seriously only when they view water leakage or brown discolor on the ceiling or if there is a crack in walls or peeling wallpapers. This proof may be seen only after few days of leaking inside your house. Many problems are arisen as fungus, dry rot, insulation damages, and many others. Thus you need a major repairing or replacement of the roof. Therefore to protect your roof from these problems, you are supposed to get the roof inspected once or twice every year. If you get time to time inspection of your roof, you will never have to pay extra dollars.
This is the right way to add years of the life to your roof and to avoid untimely failure. Home owner must get his/her roof inspected once in the fall and once in the late spring before and after though winter season, especially in colder and rainy climates. It can be done by you easily. You can do a preliminary inspection yourself. Regular roof inspection is a wise investment as leaking roofs can cause thousands of dollars in damage. Moreover you don’t even know it. Many roof problems are only exposed after they have reached to lead stage – after leakage or other serious damage has already happened.
Roof inspection by a professional should take in a complete inspection of the roof, parapets, alternating, and drainage system. If you are getting your roof inspected, then you must take a full report of the situation that the professional found. Many roofing contractor will provide a free roof inspection, include a written estimate outlining the required repairs. If you have a relationship or you are familiar with your roofing contractor.
Roof Repairs for Long Life of Roofs
Posted on 25. Jan, 2010 by admin in General
Everyone wish to have his/her own house. Purchasing your dream home is main goal of life as it is a most important investment. But big investments need guard. You need proper maintenance and protection to treasure this investment. If you are not providing proper maintenance then it will ultimately result in premature failure, unexpected and preventable expenses. To keep your home your dream home, you need proper repairing. Roof repair is also a part of keep your home safe. One house hold development that can seem freighting and expensive is the idea of doing your own repairs. Whether you have major damages to your roof or just need new gutters and shingles, mending your own roof is a repellent job.
There are few things you can do to improve the longevity of your roof. If you have few loose shingles, or gutters that are on their way to needing replacement. You can catch them early. Preventive maintenance can keep you from paying a lot for paying bigger roof repairs later. If you notice any drooping between your rafters, it could mean that your roof decking will need replacing. Water damage is the noticeable sign that reproofing is in your future and could indicate an existing leak or be a sign of insufficient roof ventilation. You must check your upper floor after a rainy day to be sure there are no marks or wet spot from previously unseen leaks.
It is very important to examine your roof at least twice a year, in order to stop any invisible harm from becoming a ruin. You are to follow few basic things to keep your roof safe. After extreme weather conditions, roof repair is generally required. If you don’t have your roof maintained regularly, you need roof repairs. There are different types of roof repairs such as general emergency repairs, flashing repairs, storm and wind damage repairs, replacement of damaged tiles and shingles, and many other things. If your roof need repair, it should be dealt as quick as possible.
Every type of roofing requires varied ways of repairs. Flat roof repairs are more frequently required then other repairs because they are influenced and affected by climate change. Some simple repairs can prevent leaks and improves the longevity of the roof. For good roof repair, you are supposed to take the service of the roofing contractors. As they know the procedure of keeping the age of the roof long. If your roof needs some big repairing then you must contact to any contractor.
Reasons To Try Metal Roofing
Posted on 24. Jan, 2010 by admin in General
Unlike popular beliefs long held by people around Australia, metal roofs do not need to be ugly. In fact, there are more attractive designs available in roofing than ever before. When combined with their great benefits, these roofs are becoming quite sought after.
Brisbane roofing trends are no exceptions to these rules. In fact, business is positively booming for roofing companies in the area, as more customers than ever before are inquiring about metal roofs. Anyone who has experienced the damage caused by extreme weather is sure to be curious about these fine additions to their homes, and this at least partly explains the rise in these roofs’ popularity. Ask any roofing company around this part of Queensland, and they are sure to confirm that metal roofs are among the most asked about products available today.
Durability of Metal secures long term appeal –
Durability is just part of the equation when it comes to this type of roofing’s skyrocketing appeal, though. As many homes in the area age, re roofing Brisbane companies are experiencing more calls than ever before. And when people decide that their old roof needs replacement, more of them than ever are open to the possibility of installing a metal replacement this time around. They are especially more open minded when they learn about some of the financial benefits of this style of roofing.
Insurance companies absolutely love metal roofs. This is because a home with a roof made of metal is much likelier to withstand many different types of extreme weather. Metal Roofing can sustain many harsh conditions where other styles of roofing may cave, buckle or incur damage. When viewing from and perspective of an insurance company this can be quite compelling. It makes insurers look at a home in a more favourable light, and the home becomes less of an insurance risk as well. For homeowners, this can translate into reduced premiums and can save them a great deal of money over the course of a year..
The Value of Metal Roofs is higher than its counterparts –
Property values of houses with metal roofing is known to increase the overall value dramatically. Home appraisers are likely to increase their overall appraisal of a home that has a metal roof. This is because a house’s roof is a huge part of the appraisal equation, and metal roofs are incredibly durable. Therefore, they add to the value of a home by guaranteeing that future owners will not have to worry about replacing the roof for quite some time.
Finally, metal roofs are available in more styles than ever before. Gone are the days of the dull, rolled metal roof look. Today, people can choose roofs that look like traditional shingles. Metal Roofing that resemble conventional tiling are also very popular sellers. People can also select slate, cedar shake or many other attractive designs for their roof. It is little wonder, then, that these roofs have become more popular than ever before, all around Australia.
Pros and Cons of Roofing Materials
Posted on 24. Jan, 2010 by admin in General
Considering the many choices, each with its own pros and cons, it can be a daunting task to decide on the type of roofing for your home. When choosing a roofing style, make sure to pay attention to a few key factors: home design, structural strength, cost, local building ordinances, and personal preferences. It is also a good idea to consider the long term effects of your choice and what it will mean for your home in years to come.
Below is a quick look at a number of roofing types, accompanied by their main advantages and disadvantages.
Composition Shingles
Pros:
At a very affordable price, these roofs are offered in a variety of colors and styles. Composition shingles made from asphalt and fiberglass are of a high quality and very durable. They are easy to install compared with other roofing types, require little maintenance, and usually have Class A fire protection.
Cons:
These types of roofs do not perform well in high winds, and under certain conditions there is a chance that they might blow off. The materials also scar easily if hot, which damages the appearance and durability of the roof.
Wood Shakes
Pros:
Available in a variety of colors, widths, thicknesses, cuts of wood, etc. – these roofs allow for flexibility in style. Wood helps to insulate your attic, which allows air to circulate easily.
Cons:
Wood shakes are unrated by fire safety codes and often require wipe or spray-on fire retardants, which are usually less effective in fire resistance than other roofing materials. These roofs require much maintenance and repair due to damage from mold, rot, and insects. Old shakes are not recyclable and have a more complicated installation process than other roofing types.
Clay Tile
Pros:
Provides a unique look, especially for homes with a Spanish, Italian, or South-Western look. A wide variety of colors and styles are available. Tiles are long-lasting, don’t rot or burn, and cannot be damaged by insects. This roofing material requires little maintenance.
Cons:
Tiles are heavy, which can cause a roof to require extra support. Also, if color is only added to the surface of the tiles, it can fade over time. Tiles are fragile, which makes it more difficult to repair the roof or walk on it to repair gutters or fireplaces. Clay tiles are one of the most expensive roofing materials, and installation can be quite complicated.
Concrete Tile
Pros:
This roof type is very durable is available in a variety of colors and styles. Most concrete roofing is long-lasting and requires little maintenance. Tiles are resistant to rot and insect damage and provide good fire protection. Concrete tile can be made to mimic other types of roofing.
Cons:
This roofing style is on the expensive side and because it is relatively new on the market, there are still problems with breaking and color changing that must be resolved.
Metal
Pros:
Regaining its popularity, metal roofs are now most popular in standing-seam steel (Standing-seam steel describes the upturned edge of one metal panel that connects it to adjacent sections, creating distinctive vertical lines and a historical look). These roofs can also be created to mimic other roofing types such as wood shakes, clay tiles, shingles, etc. Metal roofs are durable, fire retardant and require very little maintenance. Metal roofs are energy efficient and consist of many recyclable materials. They are light weight, which means they can be installed over existing roofs.
Cons:
Installation of metal roofs can be difficult and the cost is higher than most other roofing types. The life-long cost of the roof should be considered to determine if the initial cost is worth it.
Hot Mop-Flat
Pros:
This roofing is most used in commercial buildings or flat homes with good drainage. Made of asphalt, it is less expensive than other roofing types and is very durable. Although the result is not as aesthetically pleasing as other materials, it can be covered with a layer of stone to achieve a more desirable look.
Cons:
The installation of asphalt can be harmful to the environment and the installers. Some urban areas do not allow hot mop roofs because its fumes contribute to smog and release extremely high levels of air pollutants.
Roofing Materials: Pros and Cons
Posted on 24. Jan, 2010 by admin in General
Considering the many choices, each with its own pros and cons, it can be a daunting task to decide on the type of roofing for your home. When choosing a roofing style, make sure to pay attention to a few key factors: home design, structural strength, cost, local building ordinances and personal preferences. It is also a good idea to consider the long term effects of your choice and what it will mean for your home in years to come.
Below is a quick look at a number of roofing types, accompanied by their main advantages and disadvantages.
Composition Shingles
Pros:
At a very affordable price, these roofs are offered in a variety of colors and styles. Composition shingles made from asphalt and fiberglass are of a high quality and very durable. They are easy to install compared with other roofing types, require little maintenance and usually have Class A fire protection.
Cons:
These types of roofs do not perform well in high winds, and under certain conditions there is a chance that they might blow off. The materials also scar easily if hot, which damages the appearance and durability of the roofood.
Wood Shakes
Pros:
Available in a variety of colors, widths, thicknesses, cuts of wood, etc. – these roofs allow for flexibility in style. Wood helps to insulate your attic, which allows air to circulate easily.
Cons:
Wood shakes are unrated by fire safety codes and often require wipe or spray-on fire retardants, which are usually less effective in fire resistance than other roofing materials. These roofs require much maintenance and repair due to
damage from mold, rot and insects. Old shakes are not recyclable and have a more complicated installation process than other roofing types.
Clay Tile
Pros:
Provides a unique look, especially for homes with a Spanish, Italian or South-Western look. A wide variety of colors and styles are available. Tiles are long-lasting, don’t rot or burn and cannot be damaged by insects. This roofing material requires little maintenance.
Cons:
Tiles are heavy, which can cause a roof to require extra support. Also, if color is only added to the surface of the tiles, it can fade over time. Tiles are fragile, which makes it more difficult to repair the roof or walk on it to repair gutters or fireplaces. Clay tiles are one of the most expensive roofing materials, and installation can be quite complicated.
Concrete Tile
Pros: This roof type is very durable and is available in a variety of colors and styles. Most concrete roofing is long-lasting and requires little maintenance. Tiles are resistant to rot and insect damage and provide good fire protection. Concrete tile can be made to mimic other types of roofing.
Cons:
This roofing style is on the expensive side and because it is relatively new on the market, there are still problems with breaking and color changing that must be resolved.
Metal
Pros:
Regaining its popularity, metal roofs are now most popular in standing-seam steel (Standing-seam steel describes the upturned edge of one metal panel that connects it to adjacent sections, creating distinctive vertical
lines and a historical look). These roofs can also be created to mimic other roofing types such as wood shakes, clay tiles, shingles, etc. Metal roofs are durable, fire retardant and require very little maintenance. Metal roofs are energy efficient and consist of many recyclable materials. They are light weight, which means they can be installed over existing roofs.
Cons:
Installation of metal roofs can be difficult and the cost is higher than most other roofing types. The life-long cost of the roof should be considered to determine if the initial cost is worth it.
Hot Mop
Pros:
This roofing is most used in commercial buildings or flat homes with good drainage. Made of asphalt, it is less expensive than other roofing types and is very durable. Although the result is not as aesthetically pleasing as other materials, it can be covered with a layer of stone to achieve a more desirable look.
Cons:
The installation of asphalt can be harmful to the environment and the installers. Some urban areas do not allow hot mop roofs because its fumes contribute to smog and release extremely high levels of air pollutants.
Roof Replacement Tips to help you Get Started
Posted on 23. Jan, 2010 by admin in General
Roof replacement is the number one thing to do in the hierarchy of home renovation workflow. If you do not protect your home properly with a roof first, every other home remodeling task is going to be ruined. As for the old house with a damaged roof, read on to find out more about roof replacement tips to get you started.
When you are unsure about the extent of damage, you can always contact your home owner’s insurance company and have someone come and assess the roof damage. If a natural disaster was the culprit behind your damaged roof, you will be delighted to know that the cost of replacing your old roof is going to be covered by the insurance company.
Next, find a really experienced roofing company that has a proper license or is bonded and can provide you a proof of insurance. To know whether the roofing company is really good at what they are doing, you can always find out about the list of homes that have their roof replacements recently completed by the company.
You can always call your friends, neighbors or co-workers for further recommendations. If your roof damage is caused by a natural phenomenon, chances are high that other people who live around you are fussing about their roof problems too. Talk with them as they may have the details about which company you should go for and which to avoid.
Narrow down the list of the possible roofing companies that you want to three or four and make appointments to speak with them. Find out about the warranty that is offered and payment methods. You can begin comparing prices from the different roofing companies. Help the roofing people to estimate the total cost by allowing them to measure and assess the roof of your home.
When you have finally made a decision, sign a contract with the selected company. A roof replacement usually takes one or more days to complete. You can always schedule the work at a time when you will not be at home so that you won’t have to deal with the noise.
Why Metal Roofing is A Very Popular Choice for Homeowners
Posted on 23. Jan, 2010 by admin in General
Metal roofing is becoming a very popular choice for many homeowners. There are several reasons for this. Metal roofing is a noncombustible material and can resist all fires up to class A. Class A can be the ones that insurance companies give discounts due to the less probability of catching fire and having more time to extinguish them before things gets worse.
Metal roofing is tough, more cost effective and lasts longer than any other roofing solution yet they are pretty simple and ordinary looking. Curved metal roofing adds both the toughness of the metal roof with the sleek and classic look of the curved roofing.
Metal roofing is generally more expensive than asphalt roofing, but cheaper than tile or slate roofing. It has a long life and can even lower heating and cooling costs because it reflects heat from the sun. The metal roofing panels standing seam FSS18 is designed for both new and retrofit projects. The FSS 18 is especially useful where strength over open purlins is required or where there are long runs with limited openings.
Metal roofing is also much lighter than other kinds of tiles, which puts less stress on your rafters and walls. Metal is naturally extremely fire resistant, so those living in wildfire areas feel safer with a fireproof surface.
Metal roofing provides many benefits for homeowners who choose it for their roof. These advantages are becoming increasingly apparent, as the dramatic rise in the popularity of metal roofs tells us. Metal roofing is pricey. It may cost as much as–or more than–other premium materials: from about $1.80 to $8.00 per square foot, plus labor. Metal roofing offers a wide variety of panel profiles to choose from. Nearly any design appearance can be achieved when using metal if you are willing to pay the added cost.
Metal roofing materials are 100% recyclable in the event that they are ever removed. Metal roofing reflects the sun, thereby allowing a home to stay cooler. It also cools off very quickly at the end of the day. Metal roofing is easily scratched, and these scratches are often easily seen from the ground. The present device is designed to protect the metal roof from damage by preventing ladders used for support from touching the metal surface.
Steel roofs have the greatest strength per pound of any roofing material. Strong but lightweight, they are well designed to handle heavy snow and ice loads, and actually improve structural strength – important in earthquake and high-wind areas.
Steel cladding panels have made the evolution from traditional post and frame construction to satisfying the requirements of today’s architects in creating “sustainable green buildings”. Due to the high percentage of recycled materials in modern steel products “LEED” recognizes this reduced impact creates an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional materials.
Metal roofing is fairly complex and very involved process that takes a lot of time, system specific know-how (not all metal roofing systems are made the same), patience, precision and care. Metal roofs take much longer to install, their initial price is very significant, but the rewards of a properly installed metal roof go far beyond its looks.
Metal roofing that retains its good looks, whether it is shake, tile or vertical seam panels, outlasts both of these products. Metal roofing systems were used in the 1700s for housing because it was cheap. You would find various zinc, lead and copper roofed houses in various cities. There are numerous metal roof products. Metal roofing is both cost effective compared to many other roofing materials and lasts for many years.
As always just be sure to do your homework when trying to find the best contractor for the job. The lowest price is not always the best way to go and if you choose to make your final decision on just that fact, be prepared to be disappointed most of the time.
Different Roofing Materials
Posted on 23. Jan, 2010 by admin in General
Roof is an important part of your home. A home with damaged and leaky roof leads to several problems. Roof protects you from external elements. Hence, when you plan to construct your own home or a commercial building such as office, shop, factory etc. you must decide on what type of roofing would be suitable for it.
Roof not only gives you a shelter, but it adds to the esthetic of the building. Hence, you need to choose the right type of roofing for your residential or commercial property. Otherwise, the building may end up with a mediocre look. If you find it difficult to decide on which kind of roofing can be good for your building, contact a roofing company as early as possible.
While choosing a roofing company, you should be very careful. It is always suggested to deal with certified and reputed roofing contractors only. A professional roofing company would listen to your requirements and suggest you the best possible solution. They will show you a catalogue of various roofing styles and materials. You can choose the right kind of roofing easily.
Here is a list of common roofing materials:
Asphalt roofing:
Asphalt roofing is the most popular form of roofing in the United States. Asphalt roofing shingles are now available in various shades; previously only grey asphalt shingles were available in the market. Hence, it is pretty easy to customize the roof according to the color of the building nowadays.
All the roofing contractors offer asphalt roofing these days. If you are from New York, look for roofing company New York for all your roofing help. Ask them if they can help you install asphalt roofing.
PVC and Fiberglass roofing:
This type of roofing is comparatively new. PVC or fiberglass roofing is quite suitable for open balconies, patios, terrace, walkway etc. PVC or fiberglass sheets are strong, lightweight yet inexpensive. Being translucent, they allow light to pass through – as a result the covered area become naturally lit.
Wooden shakes:
Wooden roofing needs regular maintenance – leaky roof is very common with this type of roofing. Modern wooden shingles are taken through various processes to make them rot, insect and mold proof; however, they still risk the chance of developing unwanted elements.
Wooden shakes are popular because of their rustic and natural look which goes well with some architecture. Most modern roof company New York offers wooden roofing solutions these days. However, wooden roof is not fire resistant.
Metal roofing:
Metal roofing is popular because of its heat reflecting and fire resistance properties. Stainless steel roofing is the safest solution and requires least maintenance. Metal roofing can rust if proper care is not taken. Using stainless steel as the roofing material is the best idea.
Roof Coatings
Posted on 23. Jan, 2010 by admin in General
Bulks of materials are employed for roofs construction. Some of them include metals, plastics, rubbers, fibers, glass, wood, rocks, ceramics and the list goes on. The humans from the very beginning have been continuously striving to make their lives more protected and secured and to achieve this a lot of developments have been occurred in the world. The growing advancements in the world have revolutionized the construction field as well. One of the revolutions that have occurred is the birth of roof coatings.
Roof coating is a monolithic, fully adhered, fluid applied over the roofs and has elastic properties that allows it to stretch and return to their original shape without damage. The roof coating is the outermost layer of the entire roofing system. It is the most exposed layer of protection for a roof, and receives the strongest beating from the sun and UV rays, rain and hail, wind, debris, and all of Mother Nature’s most damaging effects. Therefore finding just a roof coating is not sufficient; the need is to find a high-quality coating for your roof that will maximally protect your roof from the deteriorating factors whether they are the UV rays or extreme weather conditions.
First of all it is very essential to get to know about the purposes that a roof coating serves for you. Their primary significance is their economical, proven performance life, and ease of use. Also the roof coatings are reflective. Being in the continuous exposure to the sun, the more reflective they are, the more protection they would be providing to the roof and the more cooling effect will be produced for the residents of the house. This will ultimately lead to reducing the cooling costs. Secondly, they are waterproof but along with it also allows trapped moisture to escape. The elastic feature of the roof coatings allows it to expand and shrink without causing any damage to the roof. Roof coatings are also manufactured keeping in mind the features such as corrosion and flame resistance. Also they are even designed to prevent the growth of moss and algae. Besides providing with lot of technical advantages, they also serve the styling purpose as it can be applied in a range of colors to suit all roofing styles and designs. Roof coatings can also help repair and seal leaks that occur in the roof. As the coatings are extremely durable, they tend to last for a long time, making the results near permanent.
There are many materials which can be used as roof coatings such as asphalt cutbacks and emulsions, elastomeric, polyurethane, and acrylic paints, sheets made of rubber, plastic, or PVC; clay or concrete tiles; and metal, available in both natural and dark-colored sheets, silicones, high performance urethanes and SPF. Application mode of the roof coatings depends upon the type of material being used. For example, materials such as paints can easily be applied with the help of rollers while some materials need special heat styling done by a professional.
It is important to choose the roof coating which is compatible with your roof. For example when considering a coating for a metal or tile roof, contractors and homeowners should consider the properties of the coating and its reaction to heat stresses. An effective coating should expand and contract with the roof as the roof expands and contracts during periods of extreme temperature change. In such a case, elastomeric roof coating is the best option. Urethane coatings and polyurea coatings can also be employed as they provide good elongation and high tensile strength. In the same way, when you have mineral-surfaced cap sheet (fine granules) or aluminum or white-coated roofing, asphalt coatings are a good option.
Although choosing the right kind of roof coating is somehow very tricky, but if you know the type of roofing you have and you are clear about the features that you want in your roof coating, then things can be simpler. Just discuss all this with your roofing contractor to select the best coating for your roof. Also ask your roofing contractor to strictly follow the manufacturer’s preparation and application instructions exactly. If these guidelines are properly followed, the end results will definitely be fruitful and productive.
Vetting Your Roofing Contractor
Posted on 22. Jan, 2010 by admin in General
Mario Williams is a partner at Lone Star Roofing, a third-generation family-owned and operated roofing company located in Texas. A graduate of the University of Texas, Williams is known throughout the state as an expert in commercial and industrial roofing techniques. Here, he explains how homeowners can research their contractors before signing any contracts.
Vetting your contractor is one of the most important steps you are going to take when deciding to put a new roof on your home or office building. Whether the project is big or small, putting on a new roof is a huge deal for people in both time and money. That’s why it is really important that you take the time to find the right roofing contractor for the job.
To make matters even more confusing, you have to deal with the plain and simple fact that the roofing contractor industry is a high-risk industry. A lot of construction companies or people out there just come and go. And these fly-by-night roofers are obviously not who you want handling your roofing job. Unfortunately, the roofing industry is famous for having that particular problem and for having certain contractors close up shop all suddenly.
That is specifically why it is so important that anyone thinking of putting a new roof on their home or commercial property should take the time, do the research, and make sure they are hiring a reputable roofing contractor for the job. You are going to have to be a little more careful when hiring a roofing contractor as opposed to hiring any other type of contractor, but that is just the name of the game at this point.
So when it comes down to it and you are vetting a contractor, you are looking for someone who has experience and someone who is going to be around long enough to be able to guarantee some type of workmanship warranty. For the obvious reasons, you don’t want to hire someone who could be closing up shop in a few months, since in those cases you will have no way to collect on a workmanship or labor warranty should something happen to the roof.
Everyone has their own techniques for vetting potential contractors, but the big three things I encourage everyone to do is to make sure that their roofing contractor has a physical address, that he is listed in good standing with the Better Business Bureau, and that he has some type of affiliation with a professional roofing organization. Some tips:
Visit the business’ physical address. There is no point in even getting a labor or workmanship warranty if the roofing company behind it disappears a few weeks later. That’s why you should make sure the company you are hiring has a physical address where they can be found should something go wrong. If a particular company has been in business at the same location for a number of years, then that is a good sign that they probably aren’t going to disappear in just a few weeks or months. So definitely, anyone who is thinking of hiring a roofing contractor should check out that contractor’s physical office address to make sure it exists.
Check with the Better Business Bureau. I would certainly encourage everyone to call up their local Better Business Bureau office to make sure the company they are hiring is listed and in good standing. Once you have gotten through, you can also check the company’s history and make sure there aren’t any outstanding complaints. Obviously, if a number of people who have had problems in the past with that company, then that is something you would want to stay away from. But in general, checking with the Better Business Bureau can give you a pretty good idea of how reputable the roofing contractor really is.
Ask about professional affiliations. It is a good idea to check with your roofing contractor to see what kind of professional affiliations he maintains, just to make sure he is a member of some type of professional organization or group. Because each state has its own individual roofing contractor associations, there isn’t just one group to ask about. But in general, the most important thing is just making sure they belong to some group that is reputable. Nationwide, there are a few big national roofing contractor associations that are reputable and established.
If a company says they are affiliated with a national organization, of course that is a good place to start. But at the same time, you still need to do your due diligence and make sure that the references they give you to those professional organizations are legitimate.
In general, those are the three biggest things an individual can do to vet his or her contractor: Check the physical address, check the Better Business Bureau, and make sure the contractor belongs to at least one roofing organization. If all of those check out, that that is a good sign that you are on the right track and you have probably got yourself a good roofing contractor.