What to Know About Best Choice Roofing in South Carolina

Best Choice Roofing serves residential and commercial properties across South Carolina with roof repair, replacement, and maintenance

Best Choice Roofing operates as a regional contractor handling everything from emergency leak repairs to full roof replacements on homes and businesses throughout South Carolina. The company works with common roofing materials including asphalt shingles, metal, and flat roofing systems. Like any roofing contractor, they charge by the job scope and materials used—costs vary widely depending on your roof's size, pitch, condition, and the materials you choose.

Before hiring any roofer, including Best Choice, you should understand what the job involves, what different materials cost, and how to compare quotes from multiple contractors. This guide covers what to expect when working with a roofing company and how to make an informed choice for your property.

Key Takeaways

• Get written quotes from at least three roofing contractors so you can compare price, materials, timeline, and warranty terms side by side.
• Verify that any contractor you hire holds a current South Carolina roofing license and carries liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage.
• Roof replacement typically takes three to seven days depending on size and weather; emergency repairs may be completed the same day or next day.
• Asphalt shingles cost less upfront but last 15 to 20 years, while metal and tile last longer but cost more initially.
• Ask about the warranty on materials and workmanship, and request a written contract that specifies what is included before work begins.

What roofing contractors typically handle

A full-service roofing company like Best Choice handles three main categories of work. Repairs address leaks, missing shingles, damaged flashing, and other problems that don't require replacing the entire roof. Replacements involve removing the old roof down to the deck and installing a new one—this is the largest job and the most expensive. Maintenance includes inspections, cleaning gutters and downspouts, and preventive work to extend your roof's life.

Most roofers also handle roof inspections, which typically cost between $100 and $300 and take one to two hours. An inspection tells you whether your roof needs repair, replacement, or just maintenance. If you're buying a home or your roof is over 15 years old, an inspection is worth the cost because it prevents expensive surprises later.

How to compare roofing quotes

Request written quotes from at least three contractors before making a decision. A complete quote should list the materials being used, the labor cost, the timeline, and the warranty on both materials and workmanship. It should also specify whether the old roof will be removed or left in place (called "roofing over"), because removal costs more but is often required by local building codes or by the manufacturer of the new roofing material.

When comparing quotes, watch for red flags: a price that is significantly lower than others, a contractor who won't provide a written estimate, or someone who pressures you to decide immediately. South Carolina does not require roofers to be licensed, but many reputable contractors carry certification from the National Association of Roofing Contractors or similar organizations. Always verify that the contractor carries liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage—if someone is injured on your property, you could be held responsible if the contractor is uninsured.

Roofing materials and their costs

Asphalt shingles are the most common choice in South Carolina because they cost less than other materials and perform well in the state's climate. They typically last 15 to 20 years and range from $3 to $5 per square foot installed, depending on quality. Metal roofing costs more upfront—$6 to $12 per square foot—but lasts 40 to 70 years and reflects heat, which can lower cooling costs. Tile and slate are durable and attractive but expensive ($8 to $15 per square foot) and require a strong roof structure to support their weight.

For flat roofs common on commercial buildings, contractors typically use TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin), EPDM rubber, or built-up roofing. Each has different costs and lifespans. Your choice depends on your budget, how long you plan to stay in the home or building, and your local climate. A contractor can explain which materials work best for your specific roof structure and weather exposure.

Timeline and weather considerations

A roof replacement on a typical residential home takes three to seven days, depending on the roof's size, complexity, and weather. Rainy weather delays work because roofers cannot safely work on wet surfaces. If you need emergency repairs—for example, after a storm—many contractors offer same-day or next-day service, though this may cost more than scheduled work.

South Carolina's hurricane season runs June through November, and severe weather can damage roofs suddenly. If you experience storm damage, document it with photos and contact your insurance company before hiring a contractor. Many insurers require an inspection before approving repairs. If you're planning a roof replacement, late spring or early fall typically offers the best weather and contractor availability.

Warranties and contracts

Before work begins, you should have a written contract that specifies the scope of work, materials, labor cost, start and end dates, and payment terms. The contract should also detail the warranty: most manufacturers warrant their materials for 20 to 50 years depending on the product, while contractors typically warrant their workmanship for one to ten years. Some contractors offer extended warranties for an additional cost.

Read the warranty carefully, because it may exclude certain types of damage or require you to perform maintenance tasks like gutter cleaning. If the contractor goes out of business, the manufacturer's warranty still covers the materials, but the workmanship warranty may not be transferable. Ask whether the warranty transfers if you sell the home, because this affects the property's resale value.

Permits and inspections

South Carolina requires a building permit for most roof replacements, though repair work often does not. Your contractor should handle the permit process and arrange for the local building inspector to sign off when the work is complete. The inspection ensures the roof meets current building codes and is installed correctly. Permit costs vary by municipality but typically range from $50 to $200.

If you hire a contractor who skips the permit process to save money, you could face problems when selling the home or filing an insurance claim. A home inspector or insurance adjuster may discover unpermitted work and require you to remove it or bring it up to code at your expense. Always confirm that permits will be obtained before signing a contract.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my roof needs replacement or just repair?

A roof inspector can tell you definitively, but general signs of replacement include widespread missing shingles, sagging, multiple leaks in different areas, or age over 20 years. If only one section is damaged or you have one or two leaks, repair is usually sufficient. An inspection costs $100 to $300 and takes about an hour.

What should I do if a contractor shows up at my door after a storm?

Do not sign anything or commit to work on the spot. Get their name, company, and contact information, then contact your insurance company first. Many insurers have preferred contractors or require their own inspection before approving repairs. Legitimate contractors expect this process and will not pressure you to decide immediately.

Can I stay in my home while the roof is being replaced?

Yes, but expect noise and disruption. Roofers typically work during daylight hours, and the work is loud. If you have young children or pets, you may want to arrange to be elsewhere during the day. The contractor should protect your property from debris and damage, but ask about their process before work begins.

What happens if it rains during the roofing job?

Work stops because roofers cannot safely work on wet surfaces and water can damage the interior if the roof is left open. Most contractors have tarps and temporary coverings to protect your home, but weather delays are common in South Carolina. Your contract should specify how weather delays affect the timeline and whether you pay extra for extended schedules.

How much should I expect to pay for a roof replacement?

Total cost depends on roof size, materials, and local labor rates. A typical 2,000-square-foot home with asphalt shingles might cost $6,000 to $10,000 installed, while metal roofing on the same home could cost $12,000 to $24,000. Get three written quotes to understand the range for your specific property.