Building Brothers Decks and Roofing: What to Know Before You Hire

Who Building Brothers Decks and Roofing Is and What They Do

Building Brothers Decks and Roofing is a South Carolina-based contractor that handles roof installation, repair, and replacement, along with deck construction and renovation. The company operates as a local business serving residential customers across the state. Before hiring any roofing contractor—including Building Brothers—you should understand what services they offer, how they price their work, and what to expect during the process.

Like most roofing companies in South Carolina, Building Brothers works with common residential materials: asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and sometimes tile or slate depending on the job. They also handle deck work, which means they may bid on mixed projects that combine roofing and outdoor structures. The company's reputation and specific service area matter when you're deciding whether to contact them for a quote.

Key Takeaways

• Building Brothers Decks and Roofing is a South Carolina contractor offering roof repair, replacement, and deck construction for residential properties.
• You should get written quotes from at least two or three roofing contractors before choosing one, regardless of which company you're considering.
• Roofing work in South Carolina often requires a contractor license and insurance; verify both before signing a contract.
• The cost of a roof replacement varies by material, square footage, and roof complexity, so compare detailed estimates rather than price alone.
• A roof inspection by a licensed contractor can help you understand whether you need repair or full replacement.

How to Research a Roofing Contractor Before You Call

Before contacting Building Brothers or any roofing company, gather basic information about them. Search for their business license through the South Carolina Secretary of State's office or your county's business records. Check whether they hold a current contractor license—South Carolina requires roofing contractors to be licensed, and you can verify this through the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR).

Look for reviews on Google, the Better Business Bureau, and local South Carolina directories. Read both positive and negative reviews to understand what past customers experienced. Pay attention to comments about communication, timeline, cleanup, and whether the work held up over time. Ask friends, neighbors, or your real estate agent if they have worked with the company or can recommend someone they trust.

Confirm that the contractor carries liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. Ask them directly for proof of both before they start work. This protects you if someone is injured on your property or if damage occurs during the job. A contractor who hesitates to provide insurance information is a red flag.

What to Expect When You Get a Quote

When you call Building Brothers or another roofing contractor for a quote, they will typically schedule a time to inspect your roof in person. The inspector will climb onto your roof (or use binoculars and a drone in some cases) to assess the condition, measure the square footage, and note any structural issues. This visit usually takes 30 minutes to an hour.

A detailed written quote should include the roofing material, the cost per square (100 square feet), labor costs, the timeline for completion, and what happens if weather delays the work. It should also specify whether the old roof will be removed (tear-off) or whether new material will be installed over the existing roof (overlay). Tear-offs cost more but are often necessary if the existing roof is damaged or if local building codes require it.

The quote should list any additional costs: permits, dumpster rental, flashing replacement, or repairs to the roof deck underneath. Ask whether the price includes cleanup and removal of old materials. Compare at least two or three quotes side by side, looking at material quality, labor, timeline, and warranty terms rather than price alone.

Understanding Roofing Materials and Costs in South Carolina

South Carolina's climate—hot summers, occasional hurricanes, and moderate winters—affects which roofing materials work best and how long they last. Asphalt shingles are the most common and affordable option, typically lasting 15 to 20 years in South Carolina's weather. Metal roofing costs more upfront but lasts 40 to 70 years and handles wind and hail better, which matters in hurricane season.

The total cost of a roof replacement depends on the size of your roof (measured in squares), the material you choose, the complexity of the roof shape, and local labor rates. A simple, single-story roof costs less than a multi-story or steeply pitched roof. If your roof has many valleys, dormers, or skylights, the labor cost rises because the work is more complex and time-consuming.

South Carolina does not have a statewide price cap for roofing work, so costs vary by contractor, location, and current material prices. Get specific numbers from your quotes rather than relying on averages you find online. Ask each contractor whether their quote includes a warranty on materials and workmanship, and what that warranty covers.

Permits, Inspections, and Timeline

Most South Carolina counties require a building permit for roof replacement. The contractor typically handles the permit application, but confirm this in your quote. The permit process usually takes one to two weeks, and the county will inspect the work after it is complete. Some contractors include the permit cost in their quote; others bill it separately.

A typical roof replacement takes three to seven days, depending on weather, roof size, and complexity. Rain will pause the work, so the timeline may stretch if storms occur. Ask the contractor for a realistic start date and completion window, and confirm what happens if the job runs longer than expected. Some contractors offer a completion may provide; others simply estimate a range.

After the work is done, the county inspector will visit to verify that the roof meets code. This inspection is free and is part of the permit process. The contractor should coordinate the inspection timing with you. Once the inspector approves the work, you receive a certificate of occupancy or completion, which you may need for insurance or if you sell the home later.

Questions to Ask Before You Hire

Before signing a contract with Building Brothers or any roofing contractor, ask these specific questions: How long have you been in business? Can you provide references from customers in my area? What happens if weather delays the job? Do you carry liability and workers' compensation insurance? What warranty do you offer, and for how long? Will you handle the permit and inspection, or do I need to? What is your payment schedule—do you require a deposit, and when is the balance due?

Ask whether they will remove and haul away the old roof or leave that to you. Clarify what "cleanup" means—will they sweep the yard, remove nails, and check for debris? Ask whether they will repair or replace flashing, gutters, or fascia if those need work. Some contractors bundle these into the roofing quote; others charge separately. Get all of this in writing in your contract.

Confirm the start date and expected completion date in the contract. Ask what the payment terms are—some contractors require 50 percent upfront and 50 percent on completion, while others ask for a smaller deposit and payment upon inspection approval. Never pay the full amount before the work is done.

Red Flags and What to Avoid

Be cautious of contractors who pressure you to decide immediately, offer a price that is significantly lower than other quotes, or ask for full payment upfront. Legitimate contractors understand that you are comparing options and will give you time to decide. A price that seems too good to be true often is—it may mean the contractor cuts corners, uses lower-quality materials, or plans to abandon the job partway through.

Avoid contractors who cannot provide proof of licensing or insurance. Do not hire someone who works entirely in cash and offers no written contract or receipt. If a contractor shows up at your door after a storm offering to file your insurance claim for a fee, be skeptical—insurance companies handle claims directly, and you do not need a middleman.

Check whether the contractor is bonded. A bond protects you if the contractor fails to complete the work or violates the contract. It is not the same as insurance, but it is an additional layer of protection. Ask whether they offer a workmanship warranty separate from the manufacturer's warranty on materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a roof repair or a full replacement?

A licensed contractor can inspect your roof and advise you. Generally, if damage is limited to one area, a repair may be enough. If the roof is old, has widespread damage, or multiple leaks in different spots, replacement is usually more cost-effective long-term. Ask the contractor for a written assessment that explains their recommendation.

What should I do if I disagree with a contractor's quote or recommendation?

Get a second opinion from another licensed contractor. If two contractors agree that replacement is needed but a third says repair is sufficient, ask each one to explain their reasoning in writing. You are paying for the work, so you have the right to understand why they recommend what they do.

Can I file an insurance claim for roof damage?

That depends on your homeowners insurance policy and the cause of the damage. Storm damage, hail, and wind are often covered; wear and tear or poor maintenance usually are not. Contact your insurance company directly to report the damage. They will send an adjuster to inspect the roof and determine whether the damage is covered under your policy.

What is the difference between a tear-off and an overlay?

A tear-off removes the old roof completely before installing new material. An overlay installs new shingles over the existing roof without removing it. Tear-offs cost more but allow the contractor to inspect and repair the roof deck underneath. Overlays are faster and cheaper but may not be allowed by local building code if the existing roof is already two or more layers thick.

How long does a roof typically last in South Carolina?

Asphalt shingles last 15 to 20 years in South Carolina's climate. Metal roofing lasts 40 to 70 years. Tile and slate can last 50 years or longer. The actual lifespan depends on the quality of materials, installation, maintenance, and how many severe storms the roof experiences.