Your roof is too important to trust to just anyone. When it comes time for repairs or replacement, you need a roofing contractor who handles every step of the process, not someone who shows up, throws on some shingles, and disappears.
At Big Anchor Roofing & Gutters, we’ve seen what happens when homeowners hire contractors who only do part of the job. They end up calling multiple companies, dealing with miscommunication, and spending more money fixing mistakes. We take a different approach in Waughtown and throughout Winston-Salem.
From the moment we inspect your roof to the day we complete installation, we handle everything. No gaps, no handoffs, no surprises. Understanding this complete process helps you make better decisions about your home’s protection.
Step 1: The Professional Roof Inspection Process
What Sets the Best Roofing Services Apart During Inspections
Not all roof inspections are created equal. After a storm, you’ll see contractors knocking on doors offering “free inspections” where they walk around for five minutes, take a few photos, and immediately push for a full replacement. That’s not a real inspection.
When we provide roofing services, our inspections are thorough and honest. We’re looking for real problems, not trying to create them. We check your entire roofing system because problems in one area affect everything else.
A proper inspection includes:
- Exterior shingle condition assessment, checking for granule loss, curling, and missing pieces
- Attic ventilation evaluation examining ridge vents, soffit vents, and overall airflow
- Interior moisture and leak detection, looking for stains, soft spots, and mold growth
- Gutter and drainage system review, identifying clogs, sagging, and improper pitch
- Structural integrity check for sagging areas and decking condition
- Flashing and penetration examination around chimneys, vents, and skylights
How Roofing Contractors Document Your Roof’s Condition
Documentation matters when you’re making a major investment decision. We take detailed photos of every issue we find, and for hard-to-reach areas or steep roofs, we use drone technology to get clear views without risking anyone’s safety. Our reports identify current problems that need immediate attention while also pointing out areas that might become problems in the next few years.
Most inspections take 45 minutes to an hour for an average-sized home. Larger or more complex roofs take longer, but we never rush through an inspection just to save time.
What You Should Receive After the Inspection
You shouldn’t have to guess what’s wrong with your roof. You will receive a written assessment after the inspection, with all problem areas identified and clear photos showing each issue we found. We provide lifespan estimates for your current roofing, along with priority recommendations that distinguish what needs fixing now versus what can wait. This information helps you plan and budget accordingly.
Step 2: The Detailed Estimate and Proposal Phase
What “Best Roofing Services” Include in Their Proposals
A one-page estimate that says “new roof – $12,000” tells you nothing. We provide itemized proposals that break down every cost so you’ll see exactly what materials we’re using, what labor covers, and what’s included in the timeline. When you hire Big Anchor Roofing & Gutters, you know what you’re paying for before we start.
| Item | Details Provided |
| Materials | Brand, style, color, warranty information |
| Labor | Tear-off, installation, cleanup, breakdown |
| Timeline | Start date, expected completion, and weather contingencies |
| Permits | All county permits and inspection fees included |
| Extras | Decking allowance, ventilation upgrades, gutter work |
Questions to Ask Your Roofing Contractor During Estimates
Don’t be afraid to ask questions because good roof contractors welcome them. You should know what’s included in the tear-off and disposal process and how rotted decking discoveries get handled. Ask about the payment schedule, who handles permits and county inspections, and what the workmanship warranty covers.
Find out how they protect your property during the job. If a contractor gets defensive or vague about these questions, that’s a red flag you shouldn’t ignore.
Red Flags in Roofing Contractor Service Proposals
Some warning signs mean you should walk away. Pressure tactics like “this price expires today” are manipulation techniques designed to prevent you from comparing options. Never pay everything up front before work starts, and make sure everything gets documented in writing with a detailed scope of work.
| Warning Sign | What It Means |
| Pressure tactics | “This price expires today!” is a manipulation tactic |
| Full payment up front | Never pay everything before work starts |
| No written contract | Everything must be documented in writing |
| Vague scope of work | “We’ll replace your roof” isn’t specific enough |
| No local address | Storm chasers disappear after the job |
| Unusually low bid | They’re cutting corners somewhere |
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it probably is.
Step 3: Material Selection and Planning
How Roof Contractors Help You Choose the Right Materials
Winston-Salem’s climate is tough on roofs. We deal with intense summer heat, high humidity, severe storms, and freeze-thaw cycles, so not all roofing materials handle these conditions equally. For Waughtown homes, we typically recommend architectural shingles because they perform better in our climate and often qualify for insurance discounts.
Architectural shingles are thicker and more durable with a 25-30 year lifespan. 3-tab shingles are thinner and more budget-friendly, but only last 15-20 years. Impact-resistant shingles provide extra protection in hail-prone areas and can reduce your insurance premiums.
Color selection matters too. Lighter colors reflect heat and reduce cooling costs during our brutal summers. Darker colors absorb heat but can look better on certain home styles. We always use synthetic underlayment instead of old-style felt paper because it’s more durable, tears less easily, and provides better water protection.
Understanding Material Warranties and Coverage
Shingle manufacturers offer warranties, but you need to read the fine print. Most “30-year warranties” are prorated, meaning after year 10, you’re only covered for a percentage of the replacement cost. They only cover defective materials, not installation problems or wear from other issues.
Several things void your material warranty. Installing over an existing layer through nail-overs automatically voids most warranties. Inadequate attic ventilation, improper installation techniques, and using non-approved accessories also eliminate your coverage. Our workmanship warranty protects you from installation errors and is often more valuable than the manufacturer’s material warranty.
Coordinating Additional Roofing Services
Roof replacement is the perfect time to address related issues. New gutters protect your new roof investment by preventing water backup and fascia damage. Replacing skylights now avoids disturbing new shingles later, and chimney flashing upgrades prevent future leaks that would compromise your new roof.
Attic insulation improvements boost energy efficiency when we already have access to your attic space. Coordinating everything at once saves time and money while protecting your entire roofing system.
Step 4: Pre-Installation Preparation
What Professional Roofing Contractors Do Before Day One
The best roofing contractor service includes preparation you never see. Before we arrive at your home, we’ve already secured all necessary permits from Forsyth County and ordered materials with confirmed delivery dates. We schedule dumpster delivery and placement, check weather forecasts for the installation window, and provide you with a homeowner preparation checklist.
We also call you the day before to confirm timing and answer any last-minute questions. This preparation prevents delays and keeps your project on schedule.
How to Prepare Your Property for Installation
You can make the job go smoothly with a few simple steps. Move vehicles out of the driveway and away from the house to give our crew room to work safely. Remove or cover outdoor furniture, grills, and decorations that could get damaged by falling debris.
Trim any tree branches touching or near the roof before we arrive. Cover items in your attic because dust will fall during the tear-off, and clear a path to electrical outlets for our equipment. Inform neighbors about the upcoming work so they’re not surprised by the activity and noise.
Make arrangements for pets because the noise and activity will disturb them. These small steps prevent delays and protect your belongings throughout the installation process.
Step 5: The Tear-Off and Preparation Phase
Why Complete Roofing Services Always Include Full Tear-Offs
We never do nail-overs or layovers. The only way to know your roof deck’s true condition is to remove the old shingles completely because hidden rot, soft spots, and water damage can’t be seen until the old materials come off. Finding problems now prevents bigger issues later.
During tear-off, we remove all old shingles and underlayment before inspecting every inch of roof decking. We identify and mark areas needing replacement, properly dispose of old materials in our dumpster, and keep the job site clean throughout the process. This complete approach protects your investment for decades to come.
What Happens During Decking Inspection and Repair
Once old shingles are off, we examine the plywood or OSB decking carefully. We look for soft spots that indicate water damage, visible rot or deterioration, and sagging areas that suggest structural issues. We also verify proper nailing and attachment throughout the deck.
If we find damaged areas, we replace those sections with new decking. Our contracts include a per-sheet allowance for this, so you’re never surprised by the cost. Most roofs need 5-10 sheets replaced on average, though older roofs or those with long-term leaks may need more.
Step 6: The Installation Process Explained
Day-by-Day Breakdown of Professional Roofing Contractor Service
Most residential roofs take 2-3 days to complete. On Day 1, the tear-off begins early morning with the complete removal of old materials, followed by decking inspection and repairs. We install drip edge and ice/water shield, then the synthetic underlayment goes down to protect your home.
Day 2 focuses on shingle installation starting at the eaves. We complete valley work and flashing around penetrations as work progresses toward the ridge. Continuous cleanup keeps the site safe for everyone throughout the day.
Day 3 involves finishing the remaining shingles and installing the ridge cap. We complete final detail work around vents and chimneys before doing a thorough cleanup and inspection. Weather can affect this schedule, but we never rush a job just to meet a deadline.
Quality Installation Techniques That Separate the Best Roofing Services
Installation quality determines how long your roof lasts. We follow manufacturer specifications exactly, using proper nail placement with six nails per shingle in high-wind areas. We maintain correct shingle overlap and alignment while applying ice and water shield at all vulnerable areas.
Our preferred valley installation method uses closed-cut valleys for better water flow. We install ridge vents for continuous airflow and use step flashing at all wall intersections. These details aren’t visible once the job is done, but they make all the difference in performance and longevity.
Real-Time Communication During Installation
You’re never left wondering what’s happening. At Big Anchor Roofing & Gutters, we provide daily updates with our crew leader checking in each morning and afternoon. If we discover any unexpected issues, we discuss them immediately with photos and options so you can make informed decisions.
We document the entire process with photos. You’ll have a complete record of your new roof from bare decking to finished shingles, which proves valuable for insurance purposes and future reference.
Step 7: Final Inspection and Quality Control
The Multi-Point Final Inspection Checklist
Before we call any job complete, we inspect everything against our quality standards. We verify shingle alignment with straight lines and proper overlap, checking that no nails are exposed and all are at the correct depth. We inspect flashing seals to confirm all penetrations are properly sealed against water intrusion.
Ventilation gets tested to verify that ridge vents and soffit vents are functioning correctly. We check that gutters are properly attached and flowing correctly while examining the overall property condition. If anything doesn’t meet our standards, we fix it before you make the final payment.
Cleanup Standards for Best Roofing Services
A clean job site matters as much as quality installation. We run a magnetic roller over your entire property to pick up loose nails that could damage tires or injure people. We check gutters, walkways, driveways, and landscaping to remove all debris.
The dumpster gets removed the same day we finish. Your property should look cleaner than when we arrived, with no trace of construction work except your beautiful new roof.
Step 8: Post-Installation Support and Warranty Activation
What Happens After Your Roofing Services Are Complete
Our relationship doesn’t end when the job is done. We register your material warranty with the manufacturer so you receive copies of all warranty documentation, including our workmanship warranty. We provide maintenance recommendations specific to your new roof and schedule a follow-up inspection 6-12 months after installation to check how everything is performing. This ongoing support protects your investment long-term.
Ongoing Support from Your Roofing Contractor
We’re here for the long term, with annual inspection services available whenever you need them. We respond quickly after severe weather to assess any storm damage and provide maintenance programs that extend your roof’s life. Our fast response time for warranty claims means problems get fixed promptly.
Our office is at 179 Waughtown St in Winston-Salem. You know exactly where to find us if you ever need help or have questions.
Why Waughtown Homeowners Choose Big Anchor for Complete Roofing Services
The Big Anchor Difference in Roofing Contractor Service
We’re local, accountable, and thorough. When you work with Big Anchor Roofing & Gutters, you get complete service from inspection to warranty activation with no gaps in coverage. We handle permits, materials, installation, cleanup, and follow-up, so you only deal with one company throughout the entire process.
Our transparent pricing means no surprises. Our proven track record in Winston-Salem and Forsyth County speaks for itself through hundreds of satisfied customers.
How to Get Started with Professional Roofing Services
Ready to experience complete roofing contractor service? We start with a free, no-pressure inspection where we’ll assess your roof’s condition, answer your questions, and provide a detailed proposal. We serve Waughtown, Winston-Salem, and all of Forsyth County with the same commitment to quality. Your roof protects everything you value. Let’s make sure it’s done right.
About Big Anchor Roofing & Gutters
Big Anchor Roofing & Gutters is a full-service roofing contractor serving Waughtown, Winston-Salem, and Forsyth County, North Carolina. We specialize in complete roofing services, including inspections, repairs, replacements, gutter installation, siding, and window services. Our local office at 179 Waughtown St represents our commitment to the community we serve. We provide transparent estimates, quality workmanship, and warranties you can trust.
From your initial inspection through final installation and beyond, we handle every detail of your roofing project with professionalism and care. Schedule your free roof inspection today by calling (336) 745-9534 or emailing bi**************@***oo.com. Experience the difference complete roofing services make.
