Ironwood Shake & Tile Ltd

Top Questions to Ask Residential Metal Roof Installers Before Hiring Them

Posted by Ironwood Shake & Tile on Nov 19, 2025

Thinking about upgrading your home’s roof? A residential metal roof installation is one of the smartest long-term investments you can make for your property—especially here on Vancouver Island, where the weather can shift from sunny to stormy in a heartbeat. But before you jump into your project, it’s important to make sure you’re hiring the right team for the job.

At Ironwood Shake & Tile Ltd., we’ve seen homeowners in Victoria, Courtenay, and Nanaimo gain tremendous peace of mind by choosing experienced professionals who know their craft inside and out. To help you make an informed decision, here are the top questions to ask residential metal roof installers before signing any contracts.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

This might sound obvious, but it’s the first question you should always ask. Working with licensed and insured contractors ensures that your project is handled according to local building codes—and that you’re protected if anything unexpected happens on site.

When you choose Ironwood Shake & Tile Ltd., you can rest easy knowing we’re fully licensed and insured across Vancouver Island. Our crews follow all provincial safety regulations, and we carry comprehensive insurance to safeguard both our team and your property. That means you can focus on enjoying your new roof—not worrying about what-ifs.

2. How Much Experience Do You Have with Metal Roofing?

Metal roofs require a specific skill set, from understanding panel systems to ensuring proper underlayment and ventilation. Not every roofer has this expertise, which is why you should always ask about their experience with residential metal roof installation.

Our metal roofing is what we do best. We’ve been installing, repairing, and maintaining premium roofs for decades—helping homeowners across Victoria, Courtenay, and Nanaimo get the most out of their investment. Whether it’s standing seam, stone-coated steel, or custom metal tiles, our installers bring precision and craftsmanship to every job.

3. Can You Provide Local References?

A reliable roofer should always have happy customers willing to share their experience. Don’t hesitate to ask for references—or even local addresses where you can see their work firsthand.

We’re proud to say that many of our clients have become long-time advocates for Ironwood Shake & Tile Ltd. From oceanfront homes in Nanaimo to heritage houses in Victoria, our reputation is built on trust, quality, and attention to detail. We encourage homeowners to reach out to our past clients and see the difference for themselves.

4. What Type of Warranty Do You Offer?

Your roof is a major investment, and warranties are what protect that investment. You’ll want to know what kind of coverage you’re getting—both for materials and workmanship.

We offer some of the most comprehensive warranties available in the industry. Our materials are backed by long-term manufacturer coverage, and we stand behind our installation quality with our own workmanship warranty. When we say your roof is built to last, we mean it.

5. Will You Provide a Written Estimate?

Always get your quote in writing before work begins. A detailed estimate helps you understand costs clearly—no hidden fees or surprise add-ons.

Transparency is at the heart of how we operate. We provide itemized, easy-to-read estimates outlining everything from materials and labor to timelines and clean-up. This open approach helps our clients make confident, informed decisions about their residential metal roof installation.

6. What’s the Expected Timeline?

Understanding how long your project will take helps you plan ahead and manage expectations. Weather, materials, and roof complexity can all impact timing—but an experienced installer should give you a clear schedule from day one.

Our team works efficiently and professionally to deliver exceptional results on schedule. We coordinate each project carefully, communicate clearly, and keep you updated if weather or supply delays arise. Our goal? To complete every job on time—with zero corners cut.

7. How Do You Handle Unexpected Issues?

Every home is different, and sometimes surprises pop up once the old roof is removed—like hidden damage or rotten decking. Ask your contractor how they deal with these issues.

With us, you’ll never be left in the dark. If we uncover a problem, we’ll show you exactly what’s going on, explain your options, and recommend the best fix for your budget. Our honest, proactive approach has earned us the trust of countless homeowners throughout Victoria, Courtenay, and Nanaimo.

8. Who Will Be Working on My Roof?

Some companies subcontract their work, which can lead to inconsistent quality. Always confirm who will actually be installing your roof.

Our in-house team handles every residential metal roof installation from start to finish. We don’t outsource our jobs because we believe in maintaining full control over quality, safety, and craftsmanship. Every installer on your project is an experienced Ironwood professional—never a third-party contractor.

9. How Will You Protect My Property?

Roofing work can get messy if not managed properly. Ask what precautions the team will take to protect your landscaping, driveways, and siding during installation.

We take pride in treating your home like our own. Our crew uses protective barriers and cleanup systems to ensure your property stays safe and tidy throughout the process. From careful debris collection to thorough post-installation inspections, we make sure your yard looks as good as your new roof.

10. What’s Your Clean-Up Policy?

You’d be surprised how many contractors overlook this one. A professional roofer should always leave your property spotless once the work is done.

We clean up is part of the job—not an afterthought. We sweep your property with magnetic tools to pick up nails, remove all materials and debris, and perform a full quality check before leaving. You’ll be left with a durable, stunning new roof—and zero mess to deal with.

Why Homeowners Choose Ironwood Shake & Tile Ltd.

When it comes to hiring residential metal roof installers in Victoria, experience and reputation matter. Ironwood Shake & Tile Ltd. has proudly served Vancouver Island homeowners for decades, delivering premium roofing solutions that stand the test of time. Our roofs are built for the coastal climate—resistant to salt air, heavy rain, and wind—while adding long-term value and style to your home.

Whether you live in downtown Victoria, Courtenay’s family neighborhoods, or a Nanaimo hillside property, our team combines craftsmanship with local expertise to ensure your roof performs beautifully for decades to come.

Bottom Lines: Ready to Upgrade Your Roof?

If you’re looking for trusted residential metal roof installers in Victoria, Courtenay, or Nanaimo, look no further than Ironwood Shake & Tile Ltd.
Our experienced team delivers lasting results and a roof you’ll be proud of for years to come.

Call us at (877) 334 1717 or visit ironwoodshakeandtile.com to request your free estimate!

FAQs

Typically, a residential project can take anywhere from a few days to a week, depending on the size and complexity of your home. Weather conditions on the Island can also play a role, but we always keep homeowners informed every step of the way.

Not at all. Modern installation methods and proper insulation make metal roofs surprisingly quiet. In fact, many homeowners say their new roof is even quieter than their old one.

With proper care, a metal roof can last 50 years or more—making it one of the most durable and cost-effective roofing options available for homes in Victoria, Courtenay, and Nanaimo.