Choosing a Roofing Contractor in Manchester and Derry, NH: What You Should Know:

Finding the right roofing contractor can feel overwhelming! Especially when you’re dealing with leaks, storm damage, or just know it’s time for a replacement. With so many companies out there, how do you know who to trust?

As the owner of RJ’s Roofing & Siding, I’ve worked with homeowners and businesses all across Manchester and Derry, New Hampshire, and I can tell you this: choosing the right roofing contractor makes all the difference in both the short term results and long-term value.

Here are a few things I always tell people when they ask what to look for:

What to Look For in when choosing a Roofing Contractor

• A professional company that offers a solid workmanship warranty

• Someone who’s honest and takes the time to explain things clearly

• A contractor who doesn't cut corners and uses quality materials

How to Get an Accurate Estimate

Don’t settle for just one quote. I always recommend getting at least three estimates so you can compare pricing, materials, and what each company includes in their scope of work. It’s not just about the bottom line price, it’s about what you’re getting for it.

Questions You Should Ask a Roofer

• What type of shingles are you using?

• Are you using ice and water shield? If so, how much?

• What type of underlayment or roofing paper will be installed?

These might seem like small details, but they matter. Different materials offer different levels of protection, and some contractors won’t tell you unless you ask.

A Real Job in Manchester, NH: What It Looked Like from Start to Finish

Not long ago, I worked on a commercial roofing job in Manchester, NH. The client came to me frustrated because the shingles on his roof kept blowing off. He asked all the right questions:

"What kind of underlayment are you using?"

"How much ice and water shield will be installed?"

"What’s the best shingle to use for high winds?"

I recommended Owens Corning Duration® SureNail® shingles, a Class 4 shingle with 130 mph wind coverage. We decided to use 6 feet of ice and water shield, followed by synthetic underlayment for added protection. Since the existing roof deck was in rough shape, I told him we’d re nail the entire deck and replace any damaged plywood. We used 2 1/2-inch ring shank nails to make sure the boards stay put.

For ventilation, we installed a 4-foot premium ridge vent and hand nailed the cap with 3 inch nails to prevent blow offs. I also offered my standard 20 year workmanship warranty, and the shingles came with a 51 year manufacturer’s warranty, which is transferable to a new homeowner something that adds real value to any property.

The job took just a few days from start to finish, and the client was thrilled! Not just with how it looked, but with the peace of mind that came from knowing it was done right.

If you’re in Manchester or Derry, NH and trying to figure out who to trust with your roofing project, give us a call. I’m happy to answer your questions, explain the process, and make sure you feel confident about your decision.

– Ray

RJ’s Roofing & Siding