Finding a roofer is like picking the right kind of toothpaste. You know it matters, but there are too many options, and the wrong choice could leave you with a headache (or worse, a leaking roof).
If you’re in the Twin Cities, that stress is doubled thanks to our unpredictable weather. Winter snows, summer storms—your roof takes a beating year-round.
Homeowners often make the same mistakes: not asking the right questions, skipping the research, or hiring based solely on price.
By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident in choosing a roofer who knows what they’re doing. You’ll learn nine specific things to look out for, including how to handle those Twin Cities’ weather quirks.
So, get ready to make the best roofing decision.
Key Takeaways
- A roofer familiar with Twin Cities weather is essential so your roof can handle Minnesota’s harsh conditions year-round.
- Local references from homeowners are crucial to verify if the roofer’s work is reliable, durable, and trusted in your area.
- Licensing, insurance, and safety protocols are non-negotiable to avoid legal issues, poor workmanship, and unnecessary risks.
- A detailed estimate with clear breakdowns prevents hidden costs and unexpected expenses during your roofing project.
- A solid warranty and a thorough post-job cleanup reflect a roofer’s commitment to quality and long-term customer satisfaction.
Choosing a Roofer? Here Are 9 Things Twin Cities Homeowners Should Know
1. Are They Familiar with Twin Cities Weather?
Minnesota’s weather isn’t just “cold in the winter and warm in the summer.” It’s brutal. Ice dams, heavy snow loads, and the summer heat all take a toll on your roof.
Hiring a roofer who doesn’t understand these seasonal challenges? That’s asking for trouble. You need someone who knows how to prep your roof for what’s coming—whether it’s 12 inches of snow, a freeze-thaw cycle, or a summer heatwave.
A roofer familiar with Twin Cities weather will know how to install and maintain your roof to withstand these harsh conditions.
They’ll also spot potential weather-related issues before they turn into costly repairs. Make sure your roofer understands how the local climate can impact your roof’s durability year-round.
2. Do They Have Local References?
You don’t want just any roofer. You want someone your neighbors trust. Local references are your key to knowing if they’ve done good work—or if they’re all talk. It’s easy for companies to boast online, but what local homeowners or businesses say matters.
Here’s what to ask local references:
- Did the work hold up over time?
- Was communication clear?
- Were there unexpected costs?
- Would they hire this company again?
If a roofer has done solid work, their local references will back them up. Don’t skip this step—it could save you a lot of future headaches.
3. Are They Licensed and Insured in Minnesota?
This one’s simple. Don’t hire an unlicensed roofer.
It’s a legal requirement in Minnesota, and skipping it could lead to serious problems—like poor workmanship or even legal issues if something goes wrong. Minnesota has specific licensing requirements, so make sure your roofer checks all the boxes.
Plus, insurance isn’t optional.
If a roofer isn’t insured and someone gets hurt on your property, you could be on the hook for medical bills. Think about it: You wouldn’t hire a driver without a license, would you?
So why risk it with your roof? Play it safe, and make sure they’ve got the paperwork to prove it.
4. Do They Provide a Clear, Detailed Estimate?
A professional roofer gives you more than just a number. They give you a breakdown. A detailed estimate shows you’re dealing with someone who knows their stuff.
Red flags? Vague estimates. If they’re unclear about materials, labor, or the timeline, you could be in for surprise charges—and not the fun kind.
So, a solid estimate includes:
- Materials (type, quality, and quantity)
- Labor costs (broken down clearly)
- A timeline for completion
Make sure you know what you’re paying for—no one likes unexpected surprises, especially in your budget.
5. What’s Their Warranty Policy?
No warranty? Time to walk away. A solid warranty means they stand by their work.
You’ll want to know about two types: material warranties (covers the roofing materials) and workmanship warranties (covers the installation).
Here’s what to ask:
- What does it cover?
- How long does it last?
- Is there a catch?
If a roofer isn’t willing to back up their work with a warranty, ask yourself why. A roof is too big an investment to roll the dice on. Make sure you’re protected if something goes wrong.
6. Do They Have Experience with Your Roof Type?
Would you trust someone with your dream car if they’d never driven it? Same goes for your roof.
Contractors specialize in different roofing materials—asphalt, metal, or tile—and each requires specific skills and techniques.
For example, metal roofs need careful handling to avoid leaks, and tile roofs need precision to avoid damage. A roofer experienced with your specific roof type knows how to install it properly, follow best practices, and avoid mistakes that could lead to future problems.
Ask upfront if they’ve worked with your roof material before. Their experience could save you from a lot of headaches down the line.
7. How Do They Handle Unexpected Problems?
Roofing projects love to surprise you—and not in a good way.
Hidden damage, like rotting wood or faulty insulation, is common. The real test of a roofer? How they handle these curveballs. You want someone who communicates the issue, explains the fix, and gives you options without scaring you.
For example, let’s say they find mold under your shingles. A reputable roofer in Minnesota would stop, show you the problem, and walk you through the next steps with a solution in mind. You don’t want a roofer who just piles on the problems.
You want a roofer who sees solutions, not just problems.
8. What’s Their Safety Record?
Safety isn’t just for the workers—it’s for you, too. Roofing comes with risks, and you want a team that takes safety seriously.
Here are a few things to ask about:
- Do they use harnesses?
- Is their crew trained in safety?
- Do they follow OSHA guidelines?
A safe roofer is a smart roofer. Make sure they’ve got it covered.
9. Do They Offer a Post-Job Cleanup?
You don’t want your yard to look like a construction site after the roofers leave.
Nails, shingles, and debris? Not a good look. A good roofer cleans up the mess, leaving your home better than they found it.
Do you want to step on nails or worry about your pet running into debris? Probably not. Post-job cleanup is essential.
Make sure your roofer treats cleanup as part of the job—because it is.
Need a Trusted Roofer in the Twin Cities? Let’s Help You Make the Right Choice
Now that you’ve got the nine key factors in mind, it’s time to choose a roofer who ticks all the boxes. Allstar Construction knows the Twin Cities inside and out—from our unpredictable weather to the roofing challenges unique to your area.
We’re here to guide you, not push you. Whether you need advice or a full roof inspection, we’re ready to help you make the best decision for your home. Contact us today at (763) 645-8671, and let’s talk about how we can keep your roof and peace of mind intact.
