Contractor Insights: James Lenz, Lenz Construction, Inc.

By DaVinci Roofscapes.

James Lenz, president of Lenz Construction, answers your top questions about getting a new roof.

You’re considering a new roof and you need straightforward answers to key questions. Congratulations… you’ve come to the right place. Our “Contractor Insights” feature brings you down-to-earth responses from professional roofers to top questions every homeowner has. This month we’re featuring James Lenz, President of Lenz Construction, Inc. in Golden Valley, Minnesota.  

Q: What should homeowners ask a roofer about when looking for a replacement roof? 

A: Anything. Everything. If you have a question, ask it. The more questions you ask, the more you will learn. A true professional roofer should be able to communicate and answer most anything on your mind. Based on the answers you get you’ll feel comfortable knowing you’re choosing the right company to work with. 

These days, something key to ask a roofer is about current lead times on materials, along with potential start dates for a project. Setting clear expectations and strong communications from the beginning will help set the roots to a great project and roofer relationship. 

Q: Why should homeowners seriously consider composite roofing when looking for a roof? 

A: Number one is the no maintenance aspect of a composite roof. No aging wood or broken tiles to deal with can be a great benefit for many homeowners. Composite slate gives the look of real slate and can be installed without the added weight and stress to a structure. When looking at composite shakes, a great upside is the long-term durability and consistent appearance even as the roof ages. 

Q: What are your best “homeowner survival tips” for getting through a roofing installation?  

A: Replacing a roof is noisy. If you can work from the office on build day and get the pets out of the house I would highly recommend it. If you must stay at home and will need to leave at any point, make a plan in advance with your roofer on what door may be best to use during the build. You’ll also want to park your car away from the house. On your home interior, you’ll want to secure any breakable or sentimental items around the house. Vibrations can cause movement, so take the time to protect these items. Of course roofing crews will protect the exterior property, but I always like to mention these things as it can help make the project go off without a hitch. 

Q: If there’s storm damage involved to a roof, what tips do you have for a homeowner working with an insurance adjuster? 

A: I recommend hiring a professional roofer who is well versed with insurance work right from the start. Having a pro on your side will make the process a breeze and most adjusters appreciate the help. 

Q: Why has your company chosen to recommend DaVinci composite roofing to your customers? 

A: DaVinci has some of the best looking slate and shake tiles on the market. In addition, they have a great support team to make every project go smoothly. Installers agree, we all love working with DaVinci Roofscapes… the quality and appearance of their products, matched with their support, brings homeowners a great roof. 

Learn more about DaVinci Roofscapes here.   

Have a question? AskARoofer. 

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