What to Know About Titus Exteriors for Your Roof Project

Titus Exteriors is a South Carolina roofing contractor based in the Lowcountry

Titus Exteriors operates as a residential roofing company serving South Carolina homeowners. The company handles roof installation, repair, and replacement work across the state, with a particular presence in the Charleston area and surrounding regions. Like any contractor you hire for roofing work, understanding what they do, how they operate, and what to expect from the process helps you make an informed decision about whether they fit your project.

Before hiring any roofing contractor—including Titus Exteriors—you should gather information about their licensing, insurance, warranty terms, and past work. This guide walks you through what questions to ask and what to look for when evaluating a roofing company for your home.

Key Takeaways

• Verify that any roofing contractor holds a current South Carolina roofing license and carries both liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage.
• Ask for written estimates from multiple contractors, including a detailed breakdown of materials, labor, timeline, and warranty terms.
• Request references from recent projects and follow up by contacting those homeowners directly about their experience.
• Understand what the warranty covers—some warranties protect materials only, while others include labor, and coverage periods vary.
• Get the contract in writing before work begins, specifying the scope of work, payment schedule, start date, and completion timeline.

What to ask a roofing contractor before you hire

Start by confirming the contractor's credentials. Ask whether they hold a current South Carolina roofing license and request the license number so you can verify it through the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. Ask to see proof of liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance—this protects you if someone is injured on your property or if damage occurs to your home during the work.

Request a written estimate that breaks down the cost of materials, labor, and any additional fees. The estimate should specify the type and brand of roofing material, the scope of work (whether they are removing old roofing, repairing underlying damage, or installing new material), the timeline for completion, and the warranty terms. Ask whether the contractor will handle permits and inspections, or whether that falls to you.

Ask how long the contractor has been in business, whether they are bonded, and what their payment terms are. Some contractors require a deposit upfront, while others bill in stages as work progresses. Understand the payment schedule before you sign anything.

Checking references and past work

Request at least three references from roofing projects completed in the past year or two. When you contact those homeowners, ask specific questions: Did the work stay on schedule? Did the contractor clean up debris? Were there any issues after the work was finished, and how did the contractor handle them? Did the final bill match the estimate?

If the contractor has a website or social media presence, look for photos of completed projects. Ask whether you can drive by a recent installation in your neighborhood to see the quality of the work firsthand. Pay attention to how the roofing is installed—seams should be straight, nails should be evenly spaced, and flashing around chimneys and vents should be secure.

Understanding roofing warranties and what they cover

Roofing warranties come in different forms, and the terms matter. A manufacturer's warranty covers defects in the roofing material itself and typically lasts 20 to 50 years depending on the material and brand. A workmanship warranty covers the installation and usually lasts 1 to 10 years. Some contractors offer both; others only the manufacturer's warranty.

Ask the contractor to provide the warranty in writing and clarify what is and is not covered. For example, does the warranty cover damage from storms, falling branches, or improper ventilation? Does it cover labor if a repair is needed, or only the material? What voids the warranty—for instance, some warranties are void if you don't have regular inspections or maintenance. Understand these terms before you commit.

Getting a contract in writing

Never hire a roofing contractor based on a verbal agreement. The contract should include the project address, a detailed description of the work to be done, the materials to be used (brand and type), the total cost, the payment schedule, the start date, and the expected completion date. It should also specify what happens if the contractor encounters unexpected damage—for example, rotted wood under the old roofing—and whether that work is included in the estimate or billed separately.

The contract should state that the contractor will obtain all necessary permits and that the work will comply with local building codes. It should also specify who is responsible for cleanup and debris removal. Ask whether the contractor will provide a final inspection and a written certification that the work is complete and meets code.

What to expect during and after the roofing project

Once work begins, expect disruption—roofing is loud and dusty. The contractor should protect your landscaping and property, and should clean up debris at the end of each workday. If the project takes multiple days, ask how the roof will be protected overnight if weather threatens.

After the work is finished, the contractor should walk you through the completed roof, point out the work that was done, and explain any maintenance you should perform going forward. Ask about gutter cleaning, moss prevention, and how often you should have the roof inspected. Request a copy of all warranties, permits, and inspection certificates for your records.

Roofing material options and what they cost

The type of roofing material you choose affects both the cost and the lifespan of your roof. Asphalt shingles are the most common and affordable option in South Carolina, lasting 15 to 25 years. Metal roofing costs more upfront but lasts 40 to 70 years and performs well in coastal areas where salt spray and high winds are concerns. Architectural or premium asphalt shingles cost more than standard shingles but last longer and have a more distinctive appearance.

In South Carolina's climate—hot, humid, and prone to severe weather—consider how each material handles moisture, UV exposure, and wind. Coastal properties face additional challenges from salt spray and hurricane-force winds. Discuss these factors with the contractor and ask which materials they recommend for your specific location and roof pitch.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a roofing contractor is licensed in South Carolina?

Ask the contractor for their license number and verify it through the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation website. You can search by contractor name or license number. A current license means the contractor has met state requirements and is authorized to perform roofing work in the state.

What should I do if the contractor finds damage I didn't know about?

This is common—old roofing often hides damage underneath. Before work begins, ask the contractor to specify in the contract how unexpected damage will be handled. Will it be included in the estimate, or will you be billed separately? Get a written explanation of what was found and why it needs to be repaired before authorizing additional work.

Can I get my roof inspected before hiring a contractor?

Yes. A professional roof inspection costs between $150 and $400 and can identify existing damage, leaks, or areas of concern. This gives you a clear picture of what needs to be done before you get estimates from contractors, and it helps you compare bids more accurately.

What's the difference between a roof repair and a roof replacement?

A repair fixes a specific problem—a leak, missing shingles, or damaged flashing. A replacement removes the entire old roof and installs new material. If your roof is more than 20 years old, has widespread damage, or has been repaired multiple times, replacement is usually more cost-effective than continued repairs.

How long does a typical roof installation take?

A standard residential roof replacement usually takes 1 to 3 days, depending on the size of the roof, the complexity of the design, and weather conditions. The contractor should give you a timeline in the written estimate. Ask what happens if weather delays the project and whether the contractor will provide temporary protection if the work extends beyond the expected completion date.