The Hidden Dangers of Choosing the Wrong Roofer
Imagine this: A severe Oklahoma storm rolls through, leaving your roof battered and leaking. As you search for a roofing company, you come across a new business offering rock-bottom prices. They seem eager, but should you trust them?
Choosing the right roofer is one of the most critical decisions a homeowner or business owner can make. Your roof is your property’s first line of defense, and a poorly installed or repaired roof can lead to thousands of dollars in damage.
With over 35 years of experience, Tier-One Roofing has seen countless cases where homeowners had to pay twice for their roof—once for a cheap, inexperienced roofer, and again for a professional to fix their mistakes. This guide will walk you through the risks of hiring a new or inexperienced roofing company, and what you should look for when choosing a contractor.
1. The Risks of Hiring an Inexperienced Roofer
1.1. Lack of Industry Knowledge and Experience
A newly established roofing company may not have the hands-on experience necessary to handle complex projects. Roofing is more than just laying shingles—it requires knowledge of:
Local building codes and permit requirements
Structural integrity assessments
Storm-resistant installation techniques
Proper water drainage systems
A lack of experience can result in improperly installed roofing materials, increasing the risk of leaks, water damage, and premature roof failure.
1.2. No Proven Track Record
A reputable roofer should have a portfolio of completed projects and positive customer testimonials. When hiring a new company, you risk being their “test project.”
Consider this: A GAF Certified Roofing Contractor like Tier-One Roofing has already met stringent requirements for installation quality and customer satisfaction. Can a new company say the same?
1.3. No Established Warranty or Workmanship Guarantee
New companies often lack the financial stability to honor long-term warranties. Many disappear within the first few years, leaving customers without recourse when problems arise.
According to Better Business Bureau (BBB) data, one of the most common complaints in the roofing industry is contractors not honoring their warranties. If a roofer offers a 10-year workmanship guarantee but goes out of business in two years, that guarantee is worthless.
1.4. Inadequate Insurance Coverage
A professional roofing company carries liability insurance and workers' compensation to protect homeowners from potential lawsuits in case of worker injuries or accidental damage. Many new roofers either lack insurance or carry inadequate coverage, putting homeowners at risk.
2. Common Red Flags When Hiring a Roofer
2.1. Extremely Low Bids
If a bid is significantly lower than competitors, it’s usually too good to be true. A low price often means:
Subpar materials
Untrained laborers
Shortcuts on installation
2.2. No Physical Office or Local Presence
Storm-chasing contractors pop up after major weather events, undercutting local roofers and disappearing before warranty issues surface. Always choose a company with an established office and a history of serving your community.
2.3. No Licensing or Certifications
Licensed roofers meet state and local building regulations. Ask for:
General contractor’s license
Manufacturer certifications (e.g., TAMKO, GAF, Owens Corning)
BBB Accreditation
Tier-One Roofing is a TAMKO Pro Certified Contractor and a BBB Accredited Business with an A+ Rating—credentials that prove industry trustworthiness.
3. How to Choose a Reputable Roofing Company
3.1. Look for Experience and Industry Recognition
A company with years in business and recognized certifications is far less likely to cut corners. Ask how long they’ve been in operation and request case studies of previous projects.
3.2. Read Reviews and Ask for References
Customer feedback provides insight into workmanship quality and professionalism. Check:
Google Reviews
BBB Complaints
Past client testimonials
Tier-One Roofing has been recognized by Expertise.com as one of the Best Roofers in Tulsa because of its stellar customer service and high-quality work.
3.3. Ensure They Offer a Strong Warranty
A solid roofing company should back up their work with a workmanship guarantee and manufacturer warranty. Tier-One Roofing provides comprehensive warranties to give homeowners peace of mind.
3.4. Verify Insurance Coverage
A professional roofer will have general liability and workers' compensation insurance. Always ask for proof before signing a contract.
4. The Tier-One Roofing Difference
Why should you choose a proven, experienced company like Tier-One Roofing?
35+ years of roofing experience in Tulsa, OK
Veteran-owned and operated—founded by former U.S. Army Ranger and Blackhawk pilot Jonathan Marsh
GAF Certified and TAMKO Pro Contractor
BBB A+ Rated and Expertise.com Best Roofer in Tulsa
Proven track record of satisfied customers and completed projects
Unlike many new roofing companies, Tier-One Roofing is built on a foundation of experience, integrity, and trust. We don’t just sell roofs—we protect homes and businesses for decades to come.
Trust Experience Over Risk
Should you trust a new roofing company? In most cases, hiring an inexperienced roofer is a risk that can lead to poor workmanship, financial losses, and warranty issues. Established companies like Tier-One Roofing offer the expertise, certifications, and long-term reliability that protect your investment and ensure quality work.
Your home or business is too important to trust to an unproven roofing company. While everyone has to start somewhere, roofing is not a trade where trial and error should be at the customer’s expense.
Before hiring a roofer, ask yourself:
✔ Do they have a proven track record?
✔ Are they certified by leading manufacturers?
✔ Do they offer long-term warranties?
✔ Are they insured and licensed?
✔ Do they have positive customer reviews?
By choosing Tier-One Roofing, you eliminate the risk of hiring an inexperienced contractor. Whether you need a roof repair, full replacement, or storm damage assessment, trust the professionals who have been protecting Tulsa’s homes and businesses for over 35 years.
📞 Schedule your free roof inspection today! Call us at (918) 393-4682 or visit www.tier-oneroofing.com.