Choosing the right roofing contractor in Hamburg, NY is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a homeowner. At Roofs by Bryan, we’ve seen what happens when homeowners rush that decision, and it’s rarely good. Your roof is a major financial investment. Taking time to ask the right questions before hiring a roofer can protect your wallet and your peace of mind. Here’s what you should consider before you hire anyone.
Licensing and Permits
New York State doesn’t require a universal roofer’s license, which surprises a lot of homeowners. That doesn’t mean anything goes, though. The Town of Hamburg has its own building permit requirements through its Building Department, and any reputable contractor should know exactly what’s needed for your project. Each municipality’s building department has different requirements – often requiring proof of insurance. Contractors must fulfill these requirements in order to pull the permits for your job.
It never hurts to ask the contractor you are considering: “Are you licensed to work in this location, and will you handle the permit process?”
Ask About Their Team & Approach to the Work
Some contractors use an in-house crew, others use subcontractors. A trustworthy contractor will answer about their crew and their approach to your project without hesitation. It’s important to know that they will stand behind whoever is doing the work. You want to know exactly who is on your property, and that whoever is up there knows what they’re doing.
Consider asking about how long they’ve worked with their crews (in-house or subcontractors), who the point person for the work will be, how they usually approach each project, etc. You can even check to see if they have an office staff that helps with calls and emails so you aren’t waiting for the folks on the roof to answer your calls!
Understand the Difference: Tear-Off vs. Lay-Over
One of the most common questions Hamburg homeowners ask is whether they need a full tear-off or if a new layer can just go over the old shingles. Most experienced Western New York roofers will tell you the same thing: a full tear-off is always the better choice here.
Hamburg and the surrounding Southtowns get significant snow loads. Adding a second layer of shingles means added weight, and that can put stress on your roof deck over time. A full tear-off also lets the contractor inspect the decking underneath for any damage or rot that would otherwise stay hidden. It’s more work upfront, but it’s the right way to do it.
Ice and Water Shield: Don’t Let Anyone Skip It
If a contractor doesn’t bring up ice and water shield on their own, bring it up yourself. This protective membrane is applied along the eaves and in valleys to help stop ice dams from forcing water up under your shingles, a real concern in Hamburg winters. Plus, it’s required by code.
Ask specifically what product they use and where they install it. A contractor who takes this seriously will have a clear, specific answer. A contractor who seems vague or tries to minimize its importance is one worth skipping.
Ask about Insurance
Did you know that you can request certificates of insurance from your contractors? Before you choose a contractor, ask them about their insurance. If they don’t seem forthcoming about it, you can request their certificates before any work begins.
A contractor’s insurance makes sure you are not held financially responsible if a worker is injured on your property. General Liability covers damage to your home; Workers’ Comp covers the crew. They need both. Any legitimate roofing contractor will have this ready without hesitation.
Know the Two Types of Warranties
Most homeowners don’t realize there are two separate warranties involved in a roof replacement, and they cover very different things.
- Manufacturer Warranty: This comes from the shingle manufacturer (such as GAF, Owens Corning, or CertainTeed) and covers defects in the materials themselves. Coverage length and terms vary by product.
- Workmanship Warranty: This comes from your contractor and covers the quality of the installation. If a leak develops because of how the roof was installed (not because of a material defect or an extreme weather event), this is the warranty that applies.
A contractor certified by GAF, for example, may be able to offer an enhanced warranty that covers both materials and labor. Roofs by Bryan holds GAF Master Elite certification, putting us in the top 2% of roofing contractors in the country, which means stronger warranty options for our customers.
Ask How They’ll Protect Your Property
Roofing is a messy job. Shingles, nails, and debris end up everywhere. A contractor who takes pride in their work will have a clear plan for protecting your landscaping, driveway, and home’s exterior.
Ask about: tarps to protect plants and lawn areas, drop cloths or plywood sheets for the driveway, and magnetic nail sweeps after the job is done. These aren’t extras. They’re part of doing the job right. If a contractor seems surprised you’re asking, that tells you something.
Why Hamburg Homeowners Choose Roofs by Bryan
Roofs by Bryan has been serving Hamburg and the Southtowns since 2010. Our founder, Bryan Tramontana, spent years on roofs himself, and even was a home inspector for a time, which means he built his company with a clear eye for what quality roofing actually looks like and what corners too many contractors cut.
We work with GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed products. We handle permits. We have an experienced, friendly and helpful team. And we give you straight answers — before, during, and after the job.
If you’ve been burned by a contractor before or just want to get it done right the first time, we’d love to talk. Contact Roofs by Bryan today to schedule your free consultation in Hamburg.
