Common Questions from McDonough HomeownersStraight answers - no pressure, no upsell
I think my roof has damage - what's the first step?Start with photos from the ground - do not climb onto a damaged roof. If you suspect insurable damage, open a claim with your carrier and request an adjuster visit. Then call us for a free independent inspection. We produce photo documentation and a written scope that matches what adjusters look for, and we recommend having us on-site when the adjuster visits. That's the step most homeowners skip, and it's where undercounted damage most often gets missed. How long does a typical roof replacement take in McDonough?Most standard asphalt shingle replacements on McDonough-area homes complete in a single day. Larger or more complex roofs - multiple rooflines, steep pitches, or specialty materials - may take 2-3 days. From first call to finished project, the typical timeline is 1-3 weeks depending on material availability, insurance approval (if applicable), and any required HOA architectural review. Do you work with my HOA's architectural review board?Yes. Many McDonough and Henry County subdivisions require architectural review approval before exterior work begins. We prepare the documentation package - product spec sheets, manufacturer color samples, written specifications - and manage the submission as part of your project. Historic district properties downtown follow a similar process with historically appropriate material requirements. What is the difference between GAF Master Elite and regular GAF Certified?If a contractor says "GAF Certified," ask which tier. GAF Certified is a baseline credential - most GAF-using roofers can get it. Master Elite is significantly more rigorous and requires seven-plus years of experience, verified licensing and insurance, and ongoing audits. Fewer than 2% of North American roofers hold Master Elite status. Critically, Master Elite is the only tier that can offer the GAF Golden Pledge warranty, which covers both materials and workmanship for up to 30 years. Lower-tier certifications offer weaker warranty levels. Do you offer financing?Yes. We offer financing through Payzer, with multiple term options and a quick soft-credit application that will not impact your credit score. Final terms depend on market conditions and normal lending qualifications. If you're considering financing, mention it on the first call and we can walk through the options as part of your estimate. How do I know if my roof needs replacement or just repair?A full inspection is the only honest way to answer this. Age alone is not definitive - a 20-year-old architectural shingle roof in good condition may have life left; a 12-year-old 3-tab roof with widespread granule loss likely does not. Signs that typically point to replacement over repair: widespread shingle curling or cracking, multiple leaks in different areas, sagging deck, repeated failures at the same flashing locations. When we inspect, we'll tell you honestly which it is - we don't recommend replacement when a targeted repair is the right answer. How do I avoid hiring the wrong roofer?Red flags: door-knockers who weren't called, pressure to sign on the spot, large upfront deposits, no current certificates of insurance, no local business address. A legitimate contractor provides written estimates, carries local licensing and insurance, and waits while you verify credentials. Ask for proof of manufacturer certification (not just "GAF Certified" - which tier?), proof of insurance, and a local address. If any of those is missing, keep shopping. Are you licensed and insured in Georgia?Yes. ABM Roofing is fully licensed and insured in the State of Georgia, holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, is GAF Master Elite Certified, and is a member of the National Slate Association. We carry general liability and workers' compensation coverage on every project. Current certificates of insurance are available on request - we recommend asking every contractor you evaluate for the same. | 
