Sherfield Roofing: What to Know Before You Hire

Who Sherfield Roofing is and what they do

Sherfield Roofing is a roofing contractor based in South Carolina that handles residential and commercial roof repair, replacement, and maintenance. The company works with asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and other common materials found on homes and businesses across the state. They serve customers in the Midlands region and surrounding areas.

Like any roofing contractor, Sherfield Roofing's work involves inspecting your roof, identifying damage or wear, and proposing repairs or replacement. Before hiring any roofer—including Sherfield—you should understand what questions to ask, what to expect during the process, and how to protect yourself as a homeowner.

Key Takeaways

• Always get written estimates from multiple roofing contractors, including details about materials, labor, timeline, and warranty terms.
• Verify that any contractor you hire carries liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage before work begins.
• Ask whether the contractor will handle permits and inspections, or whether you are responsible for obtaining them from your local building department.
• Request references from recent jobs in your area and follow up by calling those homeowners about their experience.
• Get the full contract in writing before any work starts, including the total price, payment schedule, and what happens if the project takes longer than expected.

What to ask before you hire

Start by asking Sherfield Roofing directly about their licensing and insurance. South Carolina requires roofing contractors to be licensed through the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. Ask for their license number and verify it on the state website. Confirm they carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage—this protects you if someone is injured on your property or if damage occurs during the work.

Ask whether they will pull the necessary permits from your city or county building department, or whether you will need to do that yourself. Most roof replacements require a permit and inspection. Some contractors include this in their bid; others pass the cost and responsibility to the homeowner. Clarify this before signing anything.

Request at least three references from customers in your area whose roofs were completed within the last two years. Call those homeowners and ask whether the work was completed on time, whether the crew cleaned up afterward, and whether they have had any problems since. A contractor's willingness to provide references and a homeowner's honest feedback matter more than any sales pitch.

Understanding the estimate and contract

A written estimate should break down the cost of materials, labor, and any additional fees. It should specify the type and grade of shingles or roofing material, the number of layers being removed (if it is a replacement), and the timeline for completion. The estimate should also state the warranty—both the manufacturer's warranty on materials and the contractor's warranty on their workmanship, which typically ranges from one to ten years depending on the company.

Before work begins, get a signed contract that includes the total price, a payment schedule, and what happens if the project runs over budget or takes longer than promised. Many roofing contracts ask for a deposit upfront, a payment when the roof is dried in (the structure is weathertight), and a final payment upon completion. Never pay the full amount before work is done. If a contractor asks for more than 50 percent upfront, that is a warning sign.

The contract should also state what the contractor will do if weather delays the job, whether they will provide a dumpster for debris, and who is responsible for protecting landscaping or other property during the work. Read every line before you sign.

Roof inspections and damage assessment

A reputable contractor will inspect your roof in person and provide a detailed report of what they find. They should photograph areas of damage, explain what caused it, and describe what needs to be fixed. If a contractor gives you an estimate over the phone without seeing the roof, get a second opinion from someone who will climb up and look.

Common reasons for roof repair or replacement in South Carolina include storm damage (hail, wind, falling branches), age-related wear (shingles curling or losing granules), leaks around flashing or vents, and moss or algae growth in humid climates. A good inspector will distinguish between cosmetic issues and structural problems that affect the roof's ability to keep water out.

Timeline and weather considerations

Roof work in South Carolina is weather-dependent. Spring and fall are the most common seasons for roofing projects because temperatures are moderate and rain is less frequent than in summer. Winter is possible but slower because of shorter daylight hours and occasional cold snaps. A typical roof replacement takes three to seven days depending on the size of the house and the complexity of the roof.

Ask Sherfield Roofing how they handle rain delays. Most contractors will stop work if rain is forecast and resume when conditions are safe. The contract should specify whether rain delays extend the completion date or whether the homeowner is charged extra for the extended timeline. Understand this before the crew shows up.

After the work is complete

Once the roof is finished, ask for a final walkthrough where the contractor shows you the completed work and points out any details you should know about maintenance. Request copies of all warranties in writing—both the manufacturer's warranty on materials and the contractor's warranty on labor. Keep these documents with your homeowner's records.

Ask about maintenance. Most asphalt shingle roofs benefit from occasional cleaning to remove moss or algae in South Carolina's humid climate, and gutters should be cleared of debris. Some contractors offer maintenance plans; others simply recommend hiring someone to clean gutters annually. Understanding what upkeep your new roof needs will extend its life.

Red flags to watch for

Be cautious if a contractor pressures you to decide quickly, offers a price that is significantly lower than other estimates, or asks for full payment upfront. Avoid contractors who show up at your door after a storm offering to file insurance claims on your behalf—this practice is illegal in South Carolina. If a contractor guarantees they can recover money from your insurance company, that is a sales tactic, not a promise.

Do not sign a blank contract or one with blank spaces for price or timeline. Do not agree to pay cash only, as this makes it harder to dispute problems later. If something feels off during your conversations with the contractor, trust that instinct and call someone else.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

A roof typically needs repair if damage is localized—a few missing shingles, a leak around one vent, or damage from a fallen branch. Replacement is usually necessary if the roof is near the end of its lifespan (15 to 25 years for asphalt shingles), if damage is widespread, or if multiple leaks are occurring. A professional inspection will tell you which is appropriate.

What should I do if I disagree with the contractor's estimate?

Get a second and third opinion from other licensed contractors. If estimates vary widely, ask each contractor to explain the difference—it may be the materials they are proposing, the scope of work, or the warranty they are offering. Do not automatically choose the cheapest option; choose the contractor whose estimate is clear, whose references check out, and whose communication you trust.

Can I file an insurance claim for roof damage myself?

Yes. Contact your homeowner's insurance company directly and describe the damage. The insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the roof and determine what they will cover. You can hire a contractor to provide an estimate, but the insurance company makes the final decision about what they will pay. Never let a contractor file the claim on your behalf without your direct involvement.

What is the difference between a manufacturer's warranty and a workmanship warranty?

A manufacturer's warranty covers defects in the roofing materials themselves—shingles that fail prematurely, for example. A workmanship warranty covers the contractor's installation. Both matter. A quality shingle with poor installation will leak; poor-quality materials installed well will fail early. Ask about both and get them in writing.

How often should I have my roof inspected?

Most experts recommend a professional inspection every three to five years, or after any major storm. You can also do a visual check from the ground with binoculars to look for missing shingles, curling, or visible damage. If you notice leaks inside your home, have the roof inspected right away rather than waiting for a scheduled appointment.