Choosing Roofing Subcontractors

Think About:

• Do they specialize in the roofing system your project needs?
  (asphalt, metal, membrane, tile, cedar shake)

• Do they handle flashing, gutters, skylights, and ventilation or is that separate?

• Will they perform a substrate inspection before installation?

• Are they certified by the manufacturer to maintain warranties?

• Do they coordinate roof safety systems?

Subcontractors to Select:

• Roofing installation subcontractor

• Sheet metal crew (flashing, edge metal)

• Skylight installer (if separate from roofing)

• Gutters/downspouts subcontractor

• Ventilation system installer (ridge/soffit, mechanical)

• Safety installation subcontractor (anchors, rails)

Choose a roofer who delivers complete weather protection, not partial installation.

Choosing Roofing Materials

Think About:

• Manufacturer warranty and approved accessory list

• Roof pitch + climate + exposure → correct product for conditions

• Underlayment type needed for waterproofing (ice shield? synthetic?)

• Compatibility with ventilation + insulation systems

• Color and texture impact on curb appeal and architectural goals

Materials to Select (as applicable):
Primary Roofing:

• Asphalt shingles (class rating)

• Metal roofing panels (gauge + coating)

• TPO / PVC / torch-down roofing (flat roofs)

• Cedar shakes or shingles

• Tile roofing (concrete or clay)

Underlayments & Waterproofing:

• Synthetic felt or premium underlayment

• Ice & water shield (eaves + valleys)

• Seam tapes + flashing membranes

Flashing + Edge Protection:

• Drip edge + rake edge metal

• Step flashing + apron flashing

• Pipe boots + vent flashings

• Skylight curb flashing kits

Ventilation:

• Ridge vent system

• Soffit vents + baffles

• Mechanical roof fans or ERV terminations

Accessories & Safety:

• Fasteners (approved type)

• Roof anchors or safety tie-offs

Match exact manufacturer requirements to avoid voided warranties.

Choosing Tools, Equipment & Rentals

Think About:

• How to move materials safely to roof level

• Accurate layout + fastening tools

• Slip and fall protection as mandatory

Tools & Equipment to Select:
Access + Loading:

• Boom lift or conveyor belt

• Ladder with standoffs

• Scaffold platforms near edges

Installation Tools:

• Roofing nailers or screw guns

• Cutting tools (snips, utility knives)

• Chalk lines and squares

• Sealant applicators

Safety Requirements:

• Personal fall arrest systems

• Roof anchors or lifelines

• Temporary guardrails

• Debris chute / trash management system

Quality of tools = speed and safer crew movement.

Choosing Vendors & Supply Sources

Think About:

• Consistency in color and batch matching

• Confirming lead times on metal or specialty tile

• Delivery timing so underlayment isn’t exposed too long

Vendor Types to Evaluate:

• Roofing product distributors (manufacturer-certified)

• Sheet metal fabricator (custom flashings)

• Skylight distributor (Velux, etc.)

• Safety equipment provider

• Crane/boom truck supplier for loading

• Dumpster service for shingles and debris

Reliable vendors prevent exposure delays and warranty issues.

Choosing Inspections & Documentation Support

Think About:

• Roofing inspections happen before final covering

• Warranties require proof of proper accessory installation

• Ensure all penetrations are documented with photos

Partners to Select:

• City or county inspector

• Manufacturer-certified inspector (if required)

• Photographer/document tech

• Drone operator (optional but valuable)

Documentation = future insurance protection.

Thank you for completing this Session!

Home Building Master Class | The Contractor Checklist

Video Explanation

www.thecontractorchecklist.com