Introduction
When you’re replacing or installing a metal roof, asking the right questions before signing on the dotted line can mean the difference between a worry-free, long-lasting roof and a constant source of headaches. For homeowners in Ontario, it’s especially important because currently, there is no certification needed to become a Roofer. Therefore, anyone can decide one day to become a roofer with no prior experience, understanding, or knowledge to boot. In this article, we’ll walk through 10 essential questions to ask any metal roofing contractor, and show how Roof Pros Plus uses these principles to protect your investment.
1. Getting to Know Your Contractor
The first question homeowners should be asking is if their contractor is licensed and insured. This means the contractor has met certain legal and safety standards. In the event of accidents, damage, or non-compliance, you’re protected. Insurance (liability, WSIB) ensures you’re not on the hook for injuries to workers or damage to neighbouring property. Licensing also often ties into inspections and permits, which are critical in many Ontario municipalities.
Not only is Roof Pros Plus licensed and insured, but Roof Pros Plus team includes certified master installers. For example, in order to install our Armadura metal roofing product, you must be trained and certified. While this allows the 50 year non pro rated warranty provided by Armadura to stay strong, it also provides homeowners piece of mind knowing you’re hiring someone held to high standards, with accountability and knowledge.
As mentioned, Ontario currently does not have any current certifications needed for individuals to become roofers, as a consequence it becomes the homeowners responsibility to ask and to hire a company that takes it upon themselves to provide such. For example, while a fly by night roofer may provide a cheaper quote, it may be more of a headache in the long run as incorrect installation may occur, as well as lack of support or servicing said roof if the issues do appear. Homeowners need to look out for companies that stand behind their installation, product, and most importantly their servicing should issues occur.
2. Seeing Their Work First-Hand
The second question readers should ask: Can you show me past projects or references? This is an important question to ask as it helps homeowners get a sense of their workmanship, finishes, and attention to detail. Having the ability to ask and be provided some local addresses of completed steel roofing projects allows homeowners to have some insight in said quality of workmanship, as well as the capability to see roofs with similar shapes to their own.
Another important factor to consider is Ontario’s climate. For instance, our harsh winters, strong winds, and blistering summers can have a great affect on a roof. Having the ability to see some local addresses allows homeowners the ability to see how the installation and product being sold has held up against the weather.
Roof Pros Plus has installed thousands of metal roofs across Ontario, allowing homeowners several options of local addresses to check out in a variety of colours provided by Armadura. Roof Pros Plus also have a project gallery you can browse on their website, as well as multiple customer testimonials are available.
3. Picking the Right Metal for Your Home
Not all metal roofing is created equal, and understanding the differences can make a big impact on your home’s protection and value. Factors like the type of metal (steel versus aluminum), the thickness or gauge, the protective coatings, exposed or unexposed fasteners, the ways in which the material is stilled such as direct to deck or use of strapping, and overall corrosion resistance all play an important role in how your roof will perform. These factors are especially important in Ontario’s challenging climate. Between heavy snow, freeze-thaw cycles, hail, and strong winds, homeowners need a roofing system that’s built to endure.
At Roof Pros Plus, we use high-strength steel that’s proudly designed and manufactured right here in Ontario, ensuring it meets local performance standards. Our metal roofs feature premium coatings from Sherwin-Williams, engineered to resist fading, corrosion, and harsh weather for decades. Plus, our sleek, slate-inspired designs offer the timeless beauty of natural stone with the unmatched durability and low maintenance of metal. The result is a roof that looks incredible, lasts a lifetime, and protects your home through every Northern Ontario season. Unlike standing seam that often has exposed screws an fasteners that need to be retightened every couple of years or it can lead to leaking, our shingles are designed with a four way interlocking system that have zero exposed screws or fasteners, which eliminate that need for maintenance. As well, our roofing system goes directly to the deck, therefore we do not need to use strapping which many systems do. This not only eliminates the loud noise during rainfalls, but saves on the extra weight added to roofing systems when strapping is used.
4. Understanding the Timeline
When planning your new metal roof, it’s important to understand that installation timelines can vary depending on several factors such as the size and complexity of your roof, its steepness, the weather, permit approvals, and material delivery times. Setting a realistic schedule helps homeowners manage their budget, plan around noise or access, and ensure the project runs smoothly from start to finish. At Roof Pros Plus, we know that timing is everything, especially in Northern Ontario where weather conditions can change quickly. With years of hands-on experience and efficient installation systems, our crews are trained to work safely and effectively while minimizing delays. Each project is carefully coordinated to stay on track, and our customers often highlight our professionalism and punctuality as reasons they trust Roof Pros Plus for their roofing needs.
5.Will my existing roof need to be removed first?
Before installing a new metal roof, one of the most important questions to ask your contractor is whether your existing roof needs to be removed. In some cases, a metal roof can be installed directly over existing shingles, helping homeowners save on cost. If there’s underlying damage, multiple layers of old roofing, or structural concerns, removal and partial removal should be talked about. For example, if there are sections of moss and rot those sections should be noted and removed to ensure the roofs longevity. At Roof Pros Plus, we take this preparation stage seriously. Our focus on durability and long-term performance means every installation is done with the right foundation in mind. From assessing the previous roof to applying the proper underlayment, we make sure your new metal roof performs exactly as it should, built to last a lifetime and protect your home through every Ontario season.
6. Do you handle remote or hard-to-access properties?
If your home or cottage is in a remote or hard-to-access location, it’s essential to choose a roofing contractor with the experience and resources to handle those unique challenges. Remote properties often come with additional logistical considerations, such as transportation, garbage removal, crew travel, and unpredictable weather conditions. Similarly, steep rooflines, multiple levels, or obstacles around the home can add complexity and require specialized safety measures. At Roof Pros Plus, we have extensive experience working on residential and commercial properties across Northern Ontario, including remote and island locations. Our team is fully equipped to manage challenging installations in all types of environments, and our metal roofing systems are engineered to withstand severe weather, heavy snow loads, and high winds. Whether your property is deep in the woods or perched on a lakeside bluff, Roof Pros Plus ensures your roof is installed safely, efficiently, and built to last.
7. Warranties You Can Trust
When investing in a new metal roof, understanding the warranties and guarantees offered is one of the most important steps in protecting your investment. Not all warranties are created equal, there’s a big difference between a manufacturer’s material warranty and a workmanship or labour warranty. A material warranty covers the product itself, including issues like leaks, finish fading, hail damage, or wind uplift, while a workmanship warranty protects you from installation related problems. It’s also essential to ask how long the warranty lasts, whether it’s transferable if you sell your home, and whether it’s prorated since prorated warranties often lose value over time.
At Roof Pros Plus, we’re proud to offer one of the strongest warranties in the industry: a 50-year, non-prorated warranty. This comprehensive coverage provides peace of mind knowing your roof is protected for decades to come. Paired with our exceptional workmanship guarantee, homeowners can trust that every Roof Pros Plus installation is built to last, backed by both superior materials and craftsmanship. With RPP, you’re not just getting a roof, you’re getting a lifetime of protection and reliability.
8. Handling Unexpected Issues
Even with the highest-quality materials and expert installation, unexpected issues can occasionally arise after your new roof is complete. Severe storms, strong downdrafts, or rare manufacturing defects can all create challenges over time. That’s why it’s important to know exactly how your roofing contractor handles follow-up service such as who to contact, how quickly they’ll respond, and what kind of inspection or repair process they provide. At Roof Pros Plus, we believe that our commitment to you doesn’t end once the last panel is installed. Our team prides itself on exceptional customer service both during and after the installation process. With reliable warranty coverage and dedicated support, Roof Pros Plus is always just a phone call away, ready to assist with any concerns and ensure your roof continues to perform flawlessly for years to come.
9. Protecting Your Home During Installation
Protecting your home during installation is just as important as the quality of the roof itself. Roofing projects can generate debris, dust, and noise, and without proper precautions, there’s potential for damage to landscaping, gutters, siding, or windows. That’s why it’s essential to choose a contractor who takes safety and cleanliness seriously. At Roof Pros Plus, our crews are known for being polite, professional, and meticulous on every job site. We arrive fully equipped with the right tools and materials to ensure your property remains protected throughout the installation process. From using tarps to magnet sweeps to catch nails or metal shavings. With Roof Pros Plus, you can expect minimal disruption, maximum protection, and a clean, safe job site from start to finish. Should there ever be an issue or a mess missed, Roof Pros Plus prides itself on correcting the situation.
10. Putting it in Writing
Before committing to any roofing project, it’s crucial to ensure that every detail is clearly outlined in writing. A written contract protects both you and the contractor by defining exactly what was agreed upon such as covering the scope of work, materials, colours, installation timeline, cleanup responsibilities, and warranty terms. Verbal promises can easily be misunderstood or forgotten, but a written agreement provides transparency, accountability, and the opportunity to review everything carefully before signing.
At Roof Pros Plus, we believe in complete honesty and openness throughout every stage of the project. Our quotes and warranty programs are clearly written and easily accessible on our website, and we’re known for being upfront with all costs and details, no hidden fees or surprises. This commitment to transparency ensures that every homeowner feels confident, informed, and fully comfortable before work begins. With Roof Pros Plus, what you see is exactly what you get, a roofing partner you can trust.
Conclusion
Choosing a metal roofing contractor is about more than just price. By asking the 10 questions above, you gain clarity, protection, and confidence. You’ll know you’re working with someone who is licensed & insured; uses the right materials; honours solid warranties; handles problems properly; and treats your home with care.
At Roof Pros Plus, we believe roofing should be forever. By combining Ontario-manufactured, high-quality materials, certified installers, and strong warranty programs, we ensure our customers get the last roof they will ever need. If you’re considering a metal roof or just want more information, reach out to Roof Pros Plus. We’re always here to answer any questions or concerns, and help you feel comfortable and confident before you sign a contract.
