Don't Let a "Deal" Lead to a Disaster

Why Your Roofer Matters More Than Your Roof Material These Days

Left: A 5 year old, leaking, flat roof membrane. Right: A newly replaced, properly functioning membrane.

These two photos are both of basic modified bitumen roof installations in San Francisco. Would you be able to tell which one is properly installed and which one caused tens of thousands of dollars of problems for the building owner? We couldn’t either until we started poking around…

First, Choose the Right Roofer

When it's time for a new roof, especially for a flat roof in San Francisco, homeowners often focus on the materials: "What's the best type of roof for my budget?" While materials are important, there's a far more critical factor that dictates the longevity, performance, and ultimate cost-effectiveness of your roofing investment: the contractor who installs it.

At Sure Roofing, we've seen countless examples of how the right – or wrong – contractor can make all the difference. Let's look at two real-world scenarios, both involving modified bitumen flat roofs less than five years old, that perfectly illustrate this point.

Scenario 1: The "Good Deal" Gone Horribly Wrong

This modified bitumen flat roof, installed just a few years ago, was supposed to be a "good job" from a roofer with "a lot of experience." The homeowner thought they got a deal on the installation. Fast forward a short time and this roof became a homeowner's nightmare. It started leaking horribly, leading to extensive water damage and the need for over $30,000 in repairs and leak mitigation.

Despite being a relatively new roof made of a commonly used and reliable material, poor installation practices, lack of attention to detail, and possibly cutting corners during the initial job turned a supposed saving into a massive, unexpected expense. The "deal" quickly became an overwhelming burden.

Scenario 2: The Sure Roofing Difference – Quality That Lasts

Now consider this modified bitumen flat roof, also installed within the last five years. This is one of Sure Roofing's installations. In stark contrast to the previous example, this roof has zero problems and is expected to provide decades of reliable performance.

Why the dramatic difference? It's not about the material; both roofs use modified bitumen. It's about the expertise, precision, and commitment to quality that Sure Roofing brings to every project. Our experienced team understands the nuances of modified bitumen installation, from proper substrate preparation and meticulous seam welding to correct flashing details and drainage considerations. We don't cut corners and we stand behind our work.

The Moral of the Story: Your Contractor is Paramount

These two examples couldn't be clearer: the contractor who installs your roof is many times more important than the type of material you choose for your new roof in San Francisco.

A well-installed modfied bitumen roof, even if it seems like a standard material, will outperform a poorly installed "premium" roof any day. A cheap upfront price can quickly balloon into astronomical repair costs and unimaginable headaches down the line if the job isn't done right the first time.

Before you choose a roofer, ask yourself:

• Do they have a proven track record? Don't just rely on promises; look for a history of successful projects and satisfied customers.

• Do they prioritize quality over speed or price? A reputable contractor will take the time to do the job right, even if it means a slightly higher initial investment.

• Are they transparent about their processes and materials? A good contractor will educate you, not just sell you.

• Do they stand behind their work with warranties and guarantees? Roofing warranties should be realistic so homeowners clearly understand what is and isn’t covered, avoiding false expectations, and a contractor who stands behind their warranty shows accountability and ensures homeowners can rely on lasting protection.

At Sure Roofing, we believe in delivering lasting value. We understand that a new roof is a signficant investment, and we're committed to ensuring it's an investment that pays off for decades to come. Don't fall victim to the perils of choosing a roofer based solely on price or empty promises. Choose a roofer based on a history of excellence and expertise.

Ready to get your roofing project done right, the first time? Contact Sure Roofing today for a consultation.