Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Local Roofing Companies

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

May 28, 2019•2 min read•

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5 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Local Roofing Companies

Are you looking for a local roofing company that can provide roof repair, roof replacement, or inspection services? With over 100,000 roofing contractors in the U.S., you’ve got plenty of options to choose from.

But selecting the right roofing contractor is crucial—and rushing into the decision can lead to headaches, poor workmanship, or costly damage. Here are five critical mistakes homeowners make when hiring local roofing companies—and how to avoid them.

1. Hiring an Unlicensed or Uninsured Company

Always ask: “Are you licensed and insured?” These two factors are non-negotiable when evaluating local roofers.

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A license shows that the company meets local regulations and is registered to operate in your area. Insurance protects both you and the contractor in the event of an accident or property damage.

Reputable companies like SonShine Roofing will be happy to show proof of both. If a company hesitates, move on.

2. Choosing a Company Based on Price Alone

We all want to save money—but don’t let a low bid blind you. While roof repair may average $1,200 and full replacements about $10,000, the cheapest quote can often mean shortcuts, poor materials, or unskilled labor.

Instead, choose a company that offers fair pricing and demonstrates clear value. A higher quote may come with stronger warranties, better customer service, and superior craftsmanship—well worth the investment.

3. Failing to Get Multiple Estimates

Comparing quotes helps you get a feel for the average market rate and gives you leverage in negotiations. Reliable local roofing companies will visit your home, inspect your roof, and provide a detailed estimate—often for free.

Gather 2-3 quotes and review them carefully. Don’t automatically go with the lowest price. Weigh factors like reputation, scope of work, and what’s included.

4. Ignoring Reputation and Reviews

Never skip the background check. It’s easier than ever to review a roofing company’s reputation:

Check their rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Read Google, Yelp, and Facebook reviews
Ask friends, family, or neighbors about their experiences

If a roofing contractor has repeated complaints or unresolved disputes, that’s a red flag. Look for companies with consistently positive feedback and clear communication.

5. Not Asking About Warranties

Warranties offer peace of mind—and should be a standard part of any roofing contract. Quality roof replacement or repair should include:

Manufacturer’s warranty on materials
Workmanship warranty from the contractor

Make sure you understand the terms of both, and get them in writing. If a company doesn’t offer a warranty, consider it a dealbreaker.

Choose the Right Local Roofing Company

Hiring the right roofer doesn’t have to be stressful. Avoiding these five mistakes can save you money, time, and frustration down the road.

Looking for trusted local roofing companies in Sarasota and Southwest Florida? Contact SonShine Roofing today for expert advice, quality service, and results that last.

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.