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5 Things to Ask Your Sarasota Roofing Contractor

December 9, 20142 min read
How-To Articles
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sarasota roofing contractor 5 questions to ask

5 Key Questions to Ask Your Sarasota Roofing Contractor

Hiring a Sarasota roofing contractor can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re not familiar with roofing terms or red flags. Whether you’re dealing with a roof leak or a full roof replacement, knowing which questions to ask can save you time, money, and future stress. Use this list as your guide to make a smart, informed decision and avoid contractors who only meet minimum standards.

1. Do You Have References I Can Contact or Projects I Can See?

Reliable contractors should have a portfolio of completed work or at least several references who can speak to their professionalism and quality. Ask for a few addresses of homes they’ve worked on in the area, especially if they’ve done work in Sarasota neighborhoods. If in-person visits aren’t practical, look for before-and-after photos or online reviews on platforms like Google or Yelp.

2. What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer?

Most professional roofing jobs include two warranties: one from the manufacturer for materials and one from the contractor for workmanship. Ask for both in writing. Quality contractors like SonShine Roofing will go over these with you in detail. Also, ask whether improper installation or mixing products from different brands could void your warranty—something that’s often overlooked but critically important.

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3. How Long Have You Been in Business?

While years in business isn’t everything, it’s often a strong indicator of experience and community trust. A contractor who’s been around for decades has likely built a reputation they’re proud of. SonShine Roofing, for example, brings over 38 years of roofing expertise to Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte Counties.

4. Do I Need a Full Roof Replacement or Just a Repair?

This is where you separate the honest roofers from the sales-driven ones. An experienced roofing contractor should inspect your roof thoroughly and explain whether a simple roof repair will suffice or if you need a full roof replacement. Many roof leaks are localized and can be fixed without replacing the entire structure—saving you thousands of dollars.

5. Do You Carry Worker’s Compensation Insurance?

This question is crucial. If your contractor doesn’t carry proper insurance, you could be held liable for any injuries sustained on your property. Ask for proof of worker’s compensation and general liability insurance. Any reputable contractor will be happy to provide it. This also applies to any subcontractors they may hire.

Bonus Tip: Join the Roof Care Club

Want long-term peace of mind? Join the Roof Care Club to receive annual roof inspections, priority service after storms, exclusive discounts, and more. It’s the best way to keep your roof—and your budget—in top shape.

At SonShine Roofing, we believe in empowering homeowners to make smart roofing decisions. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you protect your biggest investment—your home.

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General FAQs

Does attic insulation and ventilation really make a difference?

Yes—more than most homeowners realize. Your roof surface can run nearly 100°F hotter than the air on summer days, and attics can hit the high 100s. Without proper insulation and balanced airflow, that heat and moisture can warp beams, fry shingles from beneath, and invite rot. The fix is straightforward: sufficient attic insulation plus soffit intake + ridge exhaust ventilation to move hot, wet air out. 

How do the main roofing materials compare in Sarasota’s climate?

  • Asphalt shingles: Affordable, easy to source, and versatile. Pros: fire/water resistance, low maintenance, ~25-year lifespan. Cons: lighter weight can mean blow-offs in big storms; extreme summer heat can warp/crack; expect occasional repair budgeting. 
  • Clay tile: Classic look, handles heat and salt spray, long-lasting (up to ~50 years). Pros: fire/rot resistance, stays put in wind. Cons: pricey, heavy (may need structural reinforcement), and fragile during handling. 
  • Concrete tile: Popular in Florida and lighter than many expect. Pros: durable (about 50–100 years), low maintenance, fire/water resistance, strong wind performance, color options (can mimic wood/other looks). Cons: somewhat expensive; design options are more limited than premium materials. 
  • Metal roofing: Comes in profiles that resemble shingles/tiles/shakes. Pros: little maintenance, fire/water/insect resistance, stands up to salt spray, reflects heat (can lower cooling bills), up to ~40-year lifespan. Cons: higher upfront cost and more limited design choices. 
  • Slate: Stunning and extremely durable (often 100+ years). Pros: water/rot/fire resistance, high hurricane tolerance. Cons: very heavy (reinforcement likely), fragile to walk on, and the most expensive option here. 

What causes roof leaks?

Leaks usually start at weak points—not just during hurricanes. In Florida, extreme heat and UV make materials expand/contract, turning brittle and cracking over time; even asphalt tar can soften and lose its seal. 

  • Aging roof: Heat/UV cycles degrade shingles and seals, opening paths for water. 
  • Flashing failures: Cracked, rusted, or separated metal around chimneys, vents, valleys, and walls.  
  • Missing/damaged shingles: Wind and storms pull or crack shingles, exposing underlayment and decking.  
  • Clogged gutters: Standing water backs up under edges and soaks materials—especially in rainy season.
  • Skylight leaks: Worn rubber seals or loose skylight flashing let water in at the frame.

Can I see examples of your past work?

Yes. If you browse our Roofing Project Gallery, you will see high-resolution drone videos of our featured projects with links to the materials we used.

How can I extend my roof’s lifespan?

Treat it like preventive medicine.

  • Keep gutters clean so water doesn’t back up under edges and soak the decking—check especially after storms. 
  • Manage trees: trim back overhangs; big branches are a real hazard in wind events. 
  • Insulate the attic to reduce heat transfer that can stress rafters and age materials faster. 
  • Ventilate the attic (intake at soffits, exhaust at ridge) to dump heat and moisture before they warp wood or cook shingles from below. 
  • Do regular roof cleanups/visual checks for debris, missing/curling shingles, or granule loss. 
  • Schedule professional inspections to catch small issues before they snowball. Sarasota heat + summer storms reward proactive care. 

What’s the best roof type for Florida homes?

There isn’t a single winner—it’s about matching material to Sarasota’s heat, humidity, storms, wind, and (for coastal folks) salt spray. Asphalt shingles are budget-friendly and common; concrete and clay tiles bring serious longevity and wind resistance; metal reflects heat and shrugs off salt; slate is gorgeous and ultra-durable but heavy and costly. The “best” choice balances your budget, aesthetics, structural needs, and how exposed your home is to wind and sea air.  

Do you employ subcontractors?

No, we do not employ subcontractors. All of the crews we employ are W-2 employees and on our payroll.

Are you licensed and insured in the State of Florida?

Yes, we are licensed by the State of Florida, which you can verify here. We also carry comprehensive liability insurance.

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