Why It’s Important to Ask the Right Questions
1. Are You Licensed and Insured to Work in Missouri?
Why it matters:
Missouri does not have a statewide roofing license requirement, so it’s critical to check if your contractor has a local license (city or county) and carries valid general liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
What to look for:
- Proof of insurance coverage
- License or registration numbers for your specific county (e.g., St. Charles, Jefferson, St. Louis, etc.)
- Bonding (where applicable)
At Horizon Roofing & Exteriors, we are fully insured and familiar with municipal requirements across Missouri.
2. What Experience Do You Have With Roofing in Missouri?
Why it matters:
Roofing in Missouri isn’t like roofing in Arizona or Florida. You want a contractor familiar with the Midwest climate, local building codes, and materials that perform well in our four-season weather patterns.
Ask for:
- Years of experience in Missouri
- Past projects in your town or county
- Experience with specific roofing types (shingles, metal, flat roofs, etc.)
Pro Tip: Ask for photos of completed local jobs or references in your area.
3. Are You Certified by Roofing Manufacturers?
Why it matters:
Manufacturer certifications (like GAF, CertainTeed, Owens Corning) aren’t just status symbols—they often come with better warranties and reflect higher standards of training and installation quality.
Ask specifically:
- What manufacturer certifications do you hold?
- Can you offer enhanced warranties because of your certifications?
Horizon Roofing is proud to be a certified installer for several leading manufacturers, giving our customers access to extended warranties others can’t provide.
4. Will You Provide a Detailed Written Estimate and Scope of Work?
Why it matters:
A handshake is not enough. You need a clear, itemized breakdown of costs, materials, labor, warranty, and a timeline to avoid unexpected charges or delays.
Look for:
- Cost per material/labor item
- Start and end dates
- Warranty terms
- Cleanup and disposal plans
We believe in total transparency. Horizon always provides a written, easy-to-understand estimate.
5. Who Will Be Onsite During the Job?
Why it matters:
Some companies sell you the job, then outsource it to subcontractors you’ve never met. You should know who’s doing the work and who’s responsible if something goes wrong.
Ask about:
- Supervision on-site
- Use of in-house crews vs. subcontractors
- Point of contact for questions or concerns
At Horizon, we use trusted in-house crews and maintain direct communication throughout your project.
6. How Do You Handle Unexpected Issues Like Hidden Damage or Storm Delays?
Why it matters:
Missouri’s unpredictable weather can cause delays. Older homes might reveal hidden decking damage. You need a contractor with a plan for the unexpected.
Clarify:
- How will they communicate changes or surprises?
- Will they stop work during rain?
- Do they charge extra for change orders?
🛠️ We plan for contingencies and keep you informed every step of the way.
7. What Warranties Do You Offer on Workmanship and Materials?
Why it matters:
A roof might be covered by the shingle manufacturer—but what if it fails due to poor installation? That’s why you want both material and workmanship warranties.
Ask for:
- Manufacturer warranty details
- Contractor’s own workmanship warranty (1 year, 5 years, lifetime?)
- What’s covered and what’s not
🔒 We stand behind our work with strong warranties that protect your investment.
8. How Will You Protect My Property and Clean Up After the Job?
Why it matters:
Roofing can be messy—shingle debris, nails, dumpsters. A careless crew can damage your gutters, landscaping, or even your driveway.
Ask about:
- Use of tarps, magnet rollers, and protective plywood
- Daily and final cleanup plans
- How they handle waste and nail cleanup
9. Can You Provide Local References or Reviews?
Why it matters:
The best way to know what you’re getting is to hear from others who’ve worked with the contractor in your area.
Ask for:
- Names and numbers of past clients
- Online reviews on Google, Yelp, or BBB
- Before/after photos
🌟 Check our 5-star reviews and dozens of happy homeowners across Missouri!
10. What Is the Timeline From Start to Completion?
Why it matters:
You need to plan your schedule around the project. Whether you’re coordinating with painters, realtors, or HVAC work, knowing the timeline matters.
Clarify:
- Estimated start and finish dates
- Crew size
- Delays and weather policy
- Work hours (weekends? early mornings?)
⏳ We give you a realistic schedule and stick to it—no surprises.
Bonus: Red Flags to Watch Out For
Even with the right questions, it’s important to trust your instincts. Here are some warning signs to watch for:
🚩 Vague or verbal-only estimates
🚩 Pushy sales tactics
🚩 No local references
🚩 Lack of insurance proof
🚩 Asking for large upfront payments
Why Missouri Homeowners Trust Horizon Roofing & Exteriors
From St. Charles to Columbia, Chesterfield to St. Louis, Horizon Roofing & Exteriors has built a reputation for quality roofing, honest pricing, and unmatched professionalism. We live and work in the same communities you do—so we treat every home like it’s our own.
Whether you need a full roof replacement, minor repair, or storm damage inspection, we’re here to help.
Schedule a Free Roofing Consultation Today!
Ready to get started? Don’t leave your home in the hands of just anyone.
Call Horizon Roofing & Exteriors at 636.734.7532 or visit our website to schedule your free roof assessment.
FAQ: Roofing Projects in Missouri
Final Thoughts
The roof is your home’s first line of defense—and choosing the right roofing contractor is just as important as choosing the right materials. These questions will empower you to hire with confidence and avoid regret.
Horizon Roofing & Exteriors is here to guide you with honesty, skill, and Missouri-grown experience. Don’t hesitate to reach out for expert help—we’re just a call away.
Brian Donohue
Brian Donohue is the owner of Horizon Roofing & Exteriors, the leading roofing company in St. Peters, Missouri, dedicated to delivering quality roofing solutions. With a strong background in project management, sales, and customer service, Brian has built a reputation for reliability and excellence in the roofing and construction industry.