Your general contractor tells you that they can do your roof, but can they? The question of “Can a General Contractor Do Roofing?” depends on the license, experience, and the complexity of the work. Although a general contractor may be able to do roofing legally, a roofing specialist might provide superior results when it comes to complex roofing. This guide clarifies the discussion between the general contractor and roofing contractor so as to ascertain quality work without expensive errors.
The Importance of Selecting the Right Roofer
A poorly executed roofing project may cost more than $10,000 in waterproof damage, and 6 out of 10 roof leaks are the result of poor execution of the residential roofing job. So, the question is, should I hire a general contractor to redo your roof or a specialist? It is always important to know what licensing entails when it comes to roofing work to ensure the security of your house as well as the investment.
What the Law Says: Licensing Requirements
State-by-State Regulations
- States where GCs may Roof:
Texas, among others, allows roofing on a general contractor license. - States Having Specific Licensing Requirements:
California and Florida require a license in the area of roofing. - The Way to Check:
Check through your state Contractors Licensing Board or request the category of license of the contractor.
Insurance Implications
- General Liability:
Must cover roofing-specific risks (minimum $1M). - Workers’ Compensation:
Critical, as roofing accounts for 34% of construction deaths. - Red Flag:
No proof of roofing-specific insurance.
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When a General Contractor Can Handle Roofing
- Minor Repairs:
Shingle patches, small leaks. - Part of Renovations:
Roofing alongside siding or additions. - Simple Roofs:
Low-pitch, asphalt shingle designs.
When You Need a Roofing Specialist
- Complex Roofs:
Steep slopes, metal, slate, or tile. - Storm Damage Claims:
Insurance often requires certified roofers. - Warranty Protection:
Manufacturers like GAF demand certified installers for full coverage.
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General Contractor vs. Roofing Contractor
| Factor | General Contractor | Roofing Contractor |
| Licensing | Broad construction | Roofing-specific |
| Expertise | Versatile, less specialized | Deep roofing knowledge |
| Warranties | Limited labor warranty | Extended manufacturer |
| Cost | Cheaper for small jobs | Better for complex roofs |
| Best For | Multi-project renovations | Standalone roof jobs |
Risks of Using a General Contractor for Roofing
- Voided Warranties:
Non-certified installs may nullify material warranties. - Code Violations:
Improper flashing or ventilation fails inspections. - Safety Risks:
Inexperienced crews increase accident risks. - Hidden Costs:
Fixing errors can exceed specialist costs.
How to Verify a General Contractor’s Roofing Skills
- Request 3 roofing-specific references.
- Confirm certifications (e.g., GAF Master Elite, CertainTeed SELECT).
- Check BBB for roofing-related complaints.
- Review photos of past roofing projects.
- Ensure they pull required permits.
When to Hire Both
For large renovations:
- GC Role:
Manages timeline, permits, and other trades (e.g., siding, gutters). - Roofer Role:
Handles specialized roofing tasks.
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Making the Right Choice
- Hire a General Contractor If:
The job is minor, part of a larger project, or they have proven roofing experience. - Hire a Roofing Specialist If:
The roof is complex, involves specialty materials, or is tied to an insurance claim.
Final Advice
Can a General Contractor Do Roofing? Sure, in states such as Texas, where their license includes roofing, they can be used in small repairs or small projects that are related to bigger renovations. But some roofing designs will require special materials or insurance claims, in those cases, it is advisable that a roofing contractor with his/her experience and certifications will code them better and provide better warranties.
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