Kevin Pratt, CFO of Century Roofing, has worked in the roofing industry in Kansas City for 44 years. In this competitive climate, he stresses homeowners keep their eye on a company’s longevity and do their homework before selecting a company.
Century Roofing knows the roofing business, inside and out. It was incorporated in Kansas in January 1990 by Gratz Cornola who had the simple goal of providing for his family and building a company based on quality service. The team today has that same goal, consisting of a staff of salesmen, most of whom have actually roofed, a five-man service staff in a six-acre facility in Kansas City. This location houses a large inventory of materials delivered on a fleet of seven conveyor trucks.
“It takes almost nothing to get into the roofing business, namely an insurance binder, cell phone and over-wrapped, over-financed truck!” Pratt says. “As a homeowner, you should not believe a company who simply claims to have been in business for over 20 or 30 years. We do not use local roof distributors to deliver our materials; therefore, they do not have lien rights on our customers’ homes. We are an actual roofing contractor, not a marketing company.”
He recommends checking with the Secretary of State to see when a company began business under that actual name. Also, check with the Better Business Bureau, and ask any friends who have had their roof done recently.
“Let’s face it, if I’ve never heard of a company, it’s not been around long,” he says. “If you need legal help against a contractor, you’ll have more invested in the company than the owner. These companies rely mostly on insurance claim work and do not stock materials, employees or roofers. They are simply a sales team.”
He explains that the roofing industry has been using the same basic products for over a century, with improvements in the form of better base materials such as fiberglass matting, modified asphalts, etc. that make shingles lighter and more impact resistant. Metal roofing is coming more into vogue lately with products such as standing seam roofing panels and metal shingles.
“Your home is likely your largest single investment, and your roof is the first line of defense from the elements. Unless you have active leaks, take your time selecting a roofer,” he says. “Never pay anything up front, and if there is an insurance claim, do not sign a contract contingent on insurance approval with no price on it.”
Century Roofing is located at 6 South 59 Street Lane, Kansas City, KS 66102. Call them at 913-422-0099. Visit centuryroofingkc.com.