Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor for Your Home
When it’s time to replace your roof, there’s no shortage of companies ready to take your call. Some promise the lowest prices. Others promise “lifetime” warranties. But the truth is simple — the right roofing contractor can make or break your project.
At Allied Exteriors, we’ve seen what happens when homeowners choose based on price alone — and we’ve built our reputation by doing things differently. Here’s what to look for (and what to avoid) when it’s time to hire a roofer.
The Biggest Mistakes Homeowners Make
One of the biggest misconceptions about roofing contractors is assuming they’re all licensed, insured, and trustworthy. Many aren’t — and skipping that research can be an expensive mistake.
Before you sign, check whether the company has:
- A Google Business Profile with verified reviews.
- A physical office or showroom, not just a phone number.
- A state license and certificate of insurance.
- A good reputation with the Better Business Bureau.
And don’t let price be the deciding factor. As Allied’s owner, Armando Larranaga, puts it, “Customer service is often worth more than the cheapest bid.” The cheapest contractor might save you a few thousand dollars up front — but if that roof fails, the damage can cost tens of thousands.
We’ve seen it firsthand: a homeowner hired a big-box installer for a bargain price. The flashing was installed wrong, leaks developed, and the contractor was out of business by the time the damage showed up. The retailer denied responsibility. The homeowner paid the price.
Why the Right Contractor Matters
A good roofing company is defined by accountability.
That means clear communication, fair pricing, proper cleanup, and installation that follows manufacturer guidelines. A licensed and insured contractor will take responsibility for every step — from pulling permits to registering warranties.
Bad roofing contractors? They’ll cut corners, skip inspections, and leave you holding the bag.
In Indiana, this risk is even higher: whoever pulls the permit is legally considered the contractor. If your roofer asks you to pull it, that’s a massive red flag — it likely means they’re not licensed, and you’ll be liable for fines or warranty issues down the road.
How to Check If a Roofing Company Is Legit
Here’s how to verify a roofer is the real deal:
- Ask for proof of insurance. Reputable contractors will gladly provide a certificate of liability coverage.
- Check their license. You can verify license numbers with your local building department.
- Confirm permit procedures. A legitimate company will pull and post the permit before starting work.
- Watch out for weekend jobs. Unlicensed contractors often try to work Saturdays to avoid inspectors.
- Read reviews — not ads. Online reputation tells you more than marketing ever will.
If there’s no trace of them online or they pressure you for a large down payment, walk away.
Certifications and Warranties: What They Really Mean
Manufacturer certifications exist for a reason — they ensure the roof is installed exactly as designed. Allied Exteriors, for example, is certified through Owens Corning, allowing homeowners to access extended “bumper-to-bumper” warranties on materials and workmanship.
If a non-certified roofer installs those same shingles incorrectly, the warranty can be voided.
And while some contractors may go out of business, manufacturer-backed warranties (like Owens Corning’s) remain valid, giving homeowners lasting peace of mind.
As a metal roof contractor, our warranties are handled in-house for workmanship and by the manufacturer for materials — so either way, you’re covered.
Pro Tip: “Lifetime warranty” doesn’t mean forever — it means full coverage for a defined period, as long as the roof was installed to standard.
What a Good Estimate Should Include
A professional roofing estimate should be detailed, transparent, and easy to understand.
Here’s what to expect:
- A list of materials (shingles, underlayment, nails, ventilation, flashing, etc.).
- A clear timeline for project start and completion.
- Cleanup and disposal plans.
- A written scope of work, not a handshake agreement.
When homeowners share other quotes, Allied often helps them compare line by line — and it’s common to see cheaper bids that leave out critical materials or details.
Doing the Job Right: The Allied Way
At Allied, “doing the job right” isn’t a slogan — it’s the standard.
- No down payment. Allied fronts the entire cost until the homeowner is completely satisfied.
- Dedicated leadership. Every crew has a team leader overseeing installation and a quality control officer inspecting the roof before and after the job.
- Professional cleanup. Crews use heavy machinery and magnetic rollers to catch nails, protect garden beds, and keep the property spotless.
- Respectful job sites. No loud music, smoking, profanity, or shirts-off roofing. Every homeowner gets the crew leader’s personal cell phone number in case something doesn’t meet expectations.
From the first handshake to the final inspection, the company’s veteran-owned values — integrity, accountability, and service — shape every step.
Materials That Last
Every Allied roof includes:
- Owens Corning Duration® shingles with SureNail® technology and 130 mph wind resistance.
- Synthetic underlayment and ice-and-water shield protection.
- Proper flashing and ventilation to extend roof life.
- For metal systems: Galvalume American steel, Energy Star-rated finishes, and hail resistance up to 2.5 inches.
The result is a roof built to protect — and built to last.
The Allied Project Experience
A typical project looks like this:
- Consultation and estimate.
- Pre-installation inspection.
- Permitting and scheduling.
- Installation (usually 1–2 days).
- Cleanup and final inspection.
- Warranty registration and welcome letter with your documents and contact information.
Throughout the process, homeowners stay informed and confident. Allied’s communication is proactive — not reactive.
Final Advice for Homeowners
If you remember nothing else, remember this: go with a contractor who makes you feel comfortable.
As Armando says, “It’s not about getting three quotes — it’s about finding the one you trust.”
Ask about their process, their policies, and their history. Verify what they tell you. And don’t let the lowest number blind you to the long-term cost of poor workmanship.
When you choose a roofer who values your trust as much as your business, you’ll see it in the results — a beautiful, reliable roof that exceeds expectations.
Built on Trust. Built to Last. Built Allied.
If you’re ready to replace your roof, don’t gamble on the lowest bid. Choose a veteran-owned roofing company that stands behind every shingle — from inspection to installation.
Contact Allied Exteriors today for your free consultation and see why Northern Indiana homeowners trust us to do the job right.