How to pick a roofing contractor

Best Roofing Contractors in Des Moines: How to Choose Quality Installation

If you're researching roofing contractors in Des Moines, you've probably already noticed something unsettling: after every hailstorm or windstorm, dozens of contractors suddenly appear in neighborhoods, many you've never heard of before. Some knock on doors. Others leave flyers promising unbelievably low prices. A few even claim they've "inspected your roof from the street" and found urgent damage.

Here's what six decades in the Central Iowa roofing and exterior business has taught us at Midwest Seamless: choosing the RIGHT contractor matters more than which shingle brand you select. Even the best Malarkey shingles fail if installed improperly. Even comprehensive warranties become worthless if the contractor disappears or goes out of business.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explain exactly how to identify quality roofing contractors, the red flags that signal problems, how to protect yourself from storm chasers and scam artists, and why local, established contractors deliver superior value despite sometimes higher initial costs.

Why Contractor Choice Matters More Than Shingle Brand

This might surprise you, but it's true: installation quality impacts roof performance and longevity more than the shingle brand you choose.

Here's why:

Installation Creates Performance: Premium shingles installed incorrectly will fail faster than budget shingles installed properly. Improper nailing, inadequate ventilation, poor flashing, and shortcuts during installation cause 90% of roofing failures, not shingle defects.

Warranties Require Proper Installation: Manufacturer warranties explicitly require professional installation following their specifications. Improper installation voids coverage completely, making even the best warranty worthless.

Codes and Permits Matter: Quality contractors follow local building codes and obtain proper permits. Fly by night operators skip these requirements, leaving you with code violations that complicate insurance claims and home sales.

Long Term Accountability: Roofs should last 20 to 30+ years. You need a contractor who'll still be in business when issues arise 5, 10, or 15 years later. Storm chasers and fly by night operators won't be.

Safety During Installation: Professional crews follow safety protocols protecting both workers and your property. Uninsured or poorly trained crews create liability risks if injuries occur.

The bottom line: A quality local contractor installing good shingles will outperform a questionable contractor installing premium shingles every single time. Your contractor choice is the most important decision you'll make for your roof replacement.

Storm Chasers: Iowa's Most Common Roofing Scam

After severe storms hit Des Moines, storm chasers flood the area. Understanding who they are and how they operate protects you from costly mistakes.

What Are Storm Chasers?

Storm chasers are roofing contractors who travel from state to state following severe weather events. They arrive in damaged areas, work neighborhoods aggressively for a few weeks or months, then disappear to chase the next storm.

According to industry analysis of storm chaser tactics, these operators typically:

Follow Weather Patterns: They monitor weather reports and arrive within days of major hailstorms or windstorms.

Work Temporary Locations: No local office, just hotel rooms and temporary phone numbers.

Use High Pressure Sales: Push immediate decisions using fear and urgency tactics.

Disappear Quickly: Once they secure enough contracts and payments, they move to the next storm damaged area.

Why Storm Chasers Are Problematic

Poor Quality Work: Many use subcontractors they've never worked with before, resulting in inconsistent quality and improper installation.

Inferior Materials: To maximize profit on low bids, they cut corners with substandard materials.

No Long Term Accountability: When problems arise months or years later, they're impossible to find or contact

Voided Warranties: Manufacturer warranties become worthless if the installing contractor disappears or isn't authorized.

Insurance Complications: Some storm chasers engage in insurance fraud tactics that can leave homeowners liable.

Code Violations: Many skip permits and ignore local building codes, creating problems during home sales or insurance claims.

How to Identify Storm Chasers

According to research on identifying storm chaser warning signs, watch for these telltale indicators:

Out of State License Plates: Check their truck. If it's from another state or multiple time zones away, they're not local.

No Local Physical Address: They provide only cell phone numbers, no local office or showroom.

Appeared After Recent Storm: You never heard of them before the storm, now they're everywhere.

Aggressive Door Knocking: Legitimate established contractors don't need to knock on doors. They have steady business from reputation and referrals.

Pressure to Sign Immediately: Claims the "deal" expires today or insurance filing deadlines are imminent (usually false).

Unusually Low Bids: Significantly below other estimates, suggesting corner cutting or bait and switch tactics.

Magnetic Truck Signs: Removable signage instead of permanent company branding suggests temporary operation.

No Verifiable Local References: Can only provide references from other states or no references at all.

Asks You to Sign Before Inspection: Wants your signature on documents before even examining your roof.

Offers to "Handle Insurance": Legitimate contractors assist with claims, but storm chasers often engage in questionable practices.

Offers to Waive Deductible: This is insurance fraud, period. Any contractor suggesting this should be immediately dismissed.

The Financial and Legal Risks

Working with storm chasers exposes you to serious problems:

Paying Twice: When their poor work fails or they disappear mid job, you pay another contractor to fix or redo everything.

Voided Insurance Coverage: Insurance fraud tactics can result in denied claims or policy cancellation.

Personal Liability: If uninsured workers are injured on your property, you may be personally liable for medical costs.

Code Violations: Work done without permits or not to code can complicate home sales and result in expensive corrections.

Voided Manufacturer Warranties: Without proper installation documentation from authorized contractors, warranties become worthless.

The "savings" from low storm chaser bids quickly become expensive when you calculate the true cost of poor work, voided warranties, and having to hire legitimate contractors later.

Red Flags: Warning Signs of Problematic Contractors

Beyond storm chasers, several red flags signal contractors you should avoid, whether they're local or not:

No Proper Licensing and Insurance

The Problem: Legitimate roofing contractors carry proper business licenses, general liability insurance, and workers compensation insurance.

Why It Matters: Without insurance, you're personally liable if workers are injured on your property or if the contractor damages your home. Without proper licensing, you have no recourse if work is substandard.

What to Verify: Request certificate of insurance showing current coverage Verify business license with local authorities Confirm workers compensation coverage for all crew members Check Better Business Bureau rating and complaint history.

Red Flag: Any contractor who can't immediately provide proof of insurance and licensing should be dismissed. Legitimate contractors have this documentation readily available.

High Pressure Sales Tactics

The Problem: Quality contractors understand roof replacement is a major decision requiring careful consideration. They give you time to compare options and make informed choices.

Common Pressure Tactics: "This price is only good if you sign today" "I have limited availability, we need to schedule now" "Your roof is in immediate danger of collapsing" "If you don't act now, your warranty will be voided" "I can only give you this deal because I'm working in your neighborhood".

Why It's Problematic: Pressure tactics prevent you from getting multiple estimates, checking references, and making rational decisions. They're designed to rush you into signing before you discover better options or realize the deal isn't as good as claimed.

What to Do: Take your time. Even if your roof has storm damage, you typically have a year or more to file insurance claims. Legitimate contractors won't pressure you.

Suspiciously Low Estimates

The Problem: When one estimate is dramatically lower than others (30% to 50% less), something is wrong.

How They Achieve Low Prices: Using inferior materials not specified in estimate Planning to cut corners on installation (improper nailing, skipped steps) Intending to demand additional payment mid project for "discovered" issues Using uninsured, untrained laborers No intention of finishing the job (take deposit and disappear).

The Reality: Quality roofing materials, proper installation labor, insurance, and overhead cost what they cost. Contractors can't sell you premium work for budget prices without cutting corners somewhere.

What to Do: Compare detailed written estimates from 3 contractors. If one is dramatically lower, ask specifically why. Request references and verify quality of their past work.

Vague or Incomplete Written Estimates

The Problem: Professional estimates should detail exactly what's included, excluded, and how much each component costs.

Red Flags in Estimates: Just a total price with no breakdown Vague scope of work ("roof replacement") No specific shingle brand, model, or specifications listed Missing warranty information No timeline for completion Hidden fees in fine print Price increases allowed for "unforeseen circumstances".

What Should Be Included: Detailed estimate components should include: Complete tear off specifications (number of layers) Specific shingle brand, model, and color Underlayment type and specifications Ice and water barrier details Flashing procedures Ventilation work if needed Cleanup and disposal Warranties (material and workmanship) Payment schedule Project timeline.

Why It Matters: Vague estimates allow contractors to substitute inferior materials, claim extras weren't included, or spring surprise costs mid project.

No Physical Business Location

The Problem: Legitimate established contractors have local offices, showrooms, or physical business addresses.

Red Flags: Only a cell phone number, no office P.O. Box as business address Uses residential address No professional website or online presence Can't find them on Google Maps.

Why It Matters: Contractors with no local physical presence can disappear easily. You have no place to go if problems arise, no local reputation to protect, and no way to pursue legal action if necessary.

What to Look For: Physical business location in the Des Moines metro Professional website with portfolio of past work Established online presence (not just created this week) Vehicles with permanent professional branding Years of verifiable local business history.

Requests Large Upfront Payments

The Problem: Legitimate contractors request reasonable deposits (10% to 25%) to secure materials and scheduling. Large upfront payments (50% or more) signal problems.

Why It's Risky: Contractors demanding 50% or more upfront may be cash strapped and unable to finance materials Some take deposits and disappear Others use your deposit to finish previous jobs (Ponzi scheme approach).

Standard Practice: Small deposit at contract signing Payment for materials upon delivery to your property Substantial payment upon completion Final payment after inspection and your satisfaction.

What to Do: Never pay the full amount upfront Be suspicious of deposits exceeding 25% Pay by credit card when possible (provides dispute protection) Verify materials are delivered before paying for them.

No Written Contract or Warranty

The Problem: Verbal agreements are impossible to enforce. Professional contractors provide comprehensive written contracts detailing all terms.

What Should Be Documented: Scope of work in detail Specific materials and brands Payment schedule Project timeline Workmanship warranty period Manufacturer warranty information Permit responsibilities What happens if weather causes delays Cancellation terms.

Red Flag: Any contractor reluctant to put terms in writing is planning to take advantage of the lack of documentation.

Poor Communication and Responsiveness

The Problem: Contractors who are difficult to reach, don't return calls promptly, or avoid answering questions clearly will be even harder to work with during and after the project.

Warning Signs: Takes days to respond to calls or emails Vague or evasive answers to direct questions Unprofessional communication (rude, dismissive, condescending) Doesn't show up for scheduled appointments Can't provide clear project timeline Avoids discussing specifics.

Why It Matters: Communication problems before the project start inevitably get worse during installation. Clear communication is essential for successful projects.

What Good Contractors Do: Respond to calls and emails within 24 hours Answer questions clearly and directly Show up on time for scheduled meetings Provide regular project updates Address concerns promptly and professionally.

Recommendations to Install Over Existing Shingles

The Problem: Some contractors suggest installing new shingles directly over existing layers to save money and time.

Why This Is Bad: Hides underlying problems (rot, structural damage) Reduces new roof lifespan significantly Adds excessive weight to roof structure Voids most manufacturer warranties Violates building codes in many jurisdictions Makes future replacement more expensive (double tear off).

Legitimate Exceptions: Very rarely, if existing roof is in near perfect condition and local codes allow, overlays might be acceptable. But this is uncommon and should be accompanied by thorough explanation of limitations and risks.

What Quality Contractors Do: Always recommend complete tear off to bare decking Inspect and repair decking as needed Install proper underlayment and ice barrier Follow manufacturer specifications exactly.

Offers to Waive Your Insurance Deductible

The Ultimate Red Flag: Any contractor offering to "waive," "cover," or "absorb" your insurance deductible is proposing insurance fraud.

How the Scam Works: They inflate the insurance claim to cover your deductible They cut corners on work quality to make up the deductible cost They perform only partial work, leaving you to finish or repair.

The Legal Reality: This is insurance fraud under Iowa law You can be held liable for fraudulent claims Your insurance can be cancelled You may face criminal charges.

What Legitimate Contractors Do: Explain your insurance process clearly Help document damage for claims Provide accurate estimates to insurance adjusters Never suggest anything that violates your insurance agreement.

If Offered: Immediately decline and report to your insurance company Find a different contractor Document the offer if possible.

What Quality Contractors Provide: The Midwest Seamless Standard

Understanding what professional contractors should offer helps you evaluate options effectively. Here's what you should expect:

Established Local Presence

Physical Location: Midwest Seamless operates from 2251 Shiloh Rose Pkwy SW, Suite 103, Bondurant, Iowa. We're not working out of hotel rooms or temporary offices. We've been in Central Iowa since 1963, and we'll be here decades from now.

Long Business History: Six decades of service demonstrates stability and commitment to community. We're not here for a quick profit then disappearing. This is our home, our neighbors, our community.

Local Reputation: We've built our reputation one satisfied customer at a time over 60+ years. Our BBB A+ rating reflects consistent quality and ethical business practices, not new business marketing.

Professional Credentials and Insurance

Proper Licensing: We maintain all required business licenses and stay current with continuing education and certification requirements.

Comprehensive Insurance: General liability insurance protects your property Workers compensation covers all employees Vehicle insurance covers equipment and transportation All coverage maintained at appropriate limits for protection.

Verification Available: We provide certificates of insurance immediately upon request. No hesitation, no excuses, no delays. Professional contractors have this documentation readily available.

Transparent Written Estimates

Detailed Breakdown: Every estimate includes specific materials (brand, model, specifications), complete scope of work, itemized costs, payment schedule, and project timeline.

No Hidden Fees: If additional work is needed (deck repair, extra ventilation), we discuss it before starting and get your approval for any changes.

Clear Warranty Information: Both manufacturer warranties and our workmanship warranty are explained in writing before you sign anything.

Employee Installation Crews

Why It Matters: Our installation crews are Midwest Seamless employees, not subcontractors. This means:

Consistent training and quality standards Direct accountability to our company Workers compensation coverage Familiarity with our methods and standards Ongoing employment relationship (they'll be here for future service).

The Subcontractor Problem: Many roofing companies subcontract all installation work. This creates quality control issues, insurance coverage questions, and accountability problems. Storm chasers especially rely on subcontractors they've never worked with before.

Manufacturer Relationships

Authorized Dealer Status: We're authorized dealers for Malarkey Roofing Products. This means:

Factory training for our crews Technical support from manufacturer Proper warranty registration and support Access to complete product lines Accountability to manufacturer standards.

Why It Matters: Manufacturer warranties often require authorized dealer installation. Working with authorized dealers protects your warranty coverage.

Comprehensive Project Management

From Start to Finish: Detailed written contract signed by both parties All necessary permits obtained Materials ordered and delivered to your property before work begins Professional installation following manufacturer specifications Daily cleanup during project Final inspection with you before completion Warranty registration handled promptly Follow up to ensure satisfaction.

Communication: Regular updates during project Clear point of contact throughout process Prompt response to questions or concerns Professional courtesy and respect.

Long Term Support

After Installation: We're here for questions, concerns, or warranty issues Annual maintenance recommendations Storm damage assessments when needed Ongoing relationship with customers.

The Local Advantage: When you need us in 5 or 10 years, we'll still be here. Storm chasers and fly by night operators won't be. Local contractors with decades of history have reputations to protect.

How to Verify Contractor Quality: Essential Steps

Don't rely solely on what contractors tell you. Verify claims independently to protect yourself.

Check Better Business Bureau Rating

Why It Matters: BBB ratings reflect years of customer feedback, complaint resolution, and business practices.

What to Look For: A+ or A rating indicates consistent quality Few complaints relative to years in business Complaints resolved quickly and fairly Accreditation shows commitment to BBB standards.

How to Check: Visit BBB.org and search for the business Review complaint history and resolution Check how long they've been accredited Read customer reviews on BBB platform.

Midwest Seamless: We maintain a BBB A+ rating earned through six decades of quality work and ethical business practices. This isn't marketing, it's verified track record.

Verify Licensing and Insurance

Business License: Confirm active business registration with Iowa Secretary of State Verify any required local contractor licenses Check for complaints with state licensing boards.

Insurance Verification: Request certificate of insurance Call insurance company to verify coverage is current Confirm coverage amounts meet reasonable standards Verify workers compensation coverage for all workers.

Don't Accept: Expired insurance certificates Coverage with unreasonably low limits Verbal assurances without documentation Promises to "get you the paperwork later".

Request and Check References

What to Ask For: 3 to 5 recent customers from your area Mix of project types and sizes Recent work (within past 1 to 2 years).

What to Ask References: Was the project completed on time? Did final cost match the estimate? How was communication throughout project? Was cleanup thorough? Any issues after completion? How were they handled? Would you hire them again? Any surprises or concerns?

Red Flags: Can't provide local references Only provides references from other states References are all from years ago Reluctant to give you references to contact.

Review Online Presence

What to Examine: Professional website with portfolio of work Google Business Profile with reviews Social media presence showing ongoing business activity How long domain has been registered Consistency across platforms.

Warning Signs: Website created very recently (check domain registration date) No reviews or only brand new reviews Negative reviews with no responses No social media presence or very new accounts Generic stock photos instead of actual work.

Visit Their Physical Location

Why It Matters: Established contractors have professional business locations they're proud to show customers.

What to Look For: Actual office or showroom, not just warehouse Professional appearance and organization Display of products and materials Staff present during business hours Branded vehicles on site.

Red Flags: Address is residential home Address doesn't exist or is mail drop No signage or indication of business Never available for office visits.

Ask About Experience with Your Specific Needs

Important Questions: How many roofs do you install annually? How long have you worked with this shingle manufacturer? Do you have experience with my roof type and style? How do you handle Iowa's specific climate challenges? What's your process for storm damage assessment? How do you work with insurance companies?

Quality Contractor Answers: Specific numbers and examples Detailed explanation of processes Understanding of Iowa climate demands Professional approach to insurance work Confidence without arrogance.

The True Cost of Choosing the Wrong Contractor

Understanding the long term financial impact of contractor choice helps justify investing in quality.

Scenario Comparison: Budget vs. Quality Contractor

Scenario A: Storm Chaser with Lowest Bid

Initial Investment: $8,000 (lowest bid, too good to be true)

What Happens: Year 1: Roof leaks during first winter. Contractor can't be found Year 2: Hire local contractor to identify problems = $500 Year 3: Extensive repairs needed for improper installation = $3,500 Year 8: Premature shingle failure due to improper installation Year 10: Complete tear off and replacement needed = $15,000

Total 10 Year Cost: $27,000 Plus stress, time lost, interior damage from leaks

Scenario B: Established Local Contractor with Fair Pricing

Initial Investment: $13,000 (Midwest Seamless quality installation)

What Happens: Year 1 through 30: Proper performance, no issues Minor warranty issue year 12: Handled promptly at no cost Still performing excellently at year 30

Total 30 Year Cost: $13,000

The Mathematics: Storm chaser "saved" you $5,000 initially But cost you $14,000 more over 10 years Quality contractor costs less than half over the roof's lifespan Plus eliminates stress, hassle, and risk.

The cheapest bid is rarely the best value when you calculate total cost of ownership.

Making the Smart Choice: Your Action Plan

Here's your step by step process for choosing a quality roofing contractor in Des Moines:

Step 1: Do Your Research

Create a list of potential contractors: Ask neighbors, friends, family for recommendations Search Google for "roofing contractors Des Moines" and review results Check BBB.org for accredited businesses with good ratings Eliminate anyone without physical local address.

Step 2: Initial Contact

Call or email 3 to 5 contractors: Briefly describe your project Ask about scheduling for assessment Note responsiveness and professionalism Eliminate anyone using high pressure tactics.

Step 3: Schedule Assessments

Have 3 contractors assess your roof: Schedule different days to compare approaches Ask questions about their process Discuss timeline and availability Request detailed written estimates.

Step 4: Verify Credentials

While waiting for estimates: Check BBB ratings for each contractor Verify insurance coverage Request and check references Review online presence and reviews Visit physical locations if possible

Step 5: Compare Estimates

When estimates arrive: Compare scope of work in detail Verify specific materials are identical across bids Check warranty coverage for each Review payment schedules Look for hidden fees or vague language Eliminate anyone with suspiciously low bids.

Step 6: Ask Follow Up Questions

Before deciding: Clarify anything unclear in estimates Ask about employee vs. subcontractor crews Discuss project timeline and weather contingencies Verify permit and code compliance procedures Request workmanship warranty details in writing.

Step 7: Make Your Decision

Select based on: Overall value, not just lowest price Contractor credibility and reputation Your comfort level with their professionalism Quality of communication and answers Long term track record in community.

Step 8: Read Before Signing

Before signing contract: Read every word carefully Verify everything discussed is documented Check payment schedule is reasonable Confirm warranty details match discussions Ask about anything unclear Never sign under pressure.

Step 9: Monitor the Project

During installation: Verify materials delivered match contract specifications Check that proper permits were obtained Monitor work quality and cleanup Communicate any concerns immediately Don't make final payment until completely satisfied.

Step 10: Document Everything

After completion: Get all warranty documentation Save contract and correspondence Take photos of completed work Register warranties with manufacturers Keep contractor contact information handy.

Why Choose Midwest Seamless for Your Des Moines Roofing Project

As we expand our services to include roofing, we bring the same commitment to quality, integrity, and customer service that we've delivered for windows and siding since 1963.

What We Offer:

60+ Years of Central Iowa Service: We've weathered every type of Iowa storm alongside our customers. We understand Des Moines weather patterns, local building codes, and what Iowa roofs demand.

Family Owned Integrity: Mike Maher continues a legacy started in 1963. This is our family name and community reputation on every single job.

BBB A+ Rating: Six decades of ethical business practices and satisfied customers have earned us the Better Business Bureau's highest rating.

Employee Installation Crews: Our installers are Midwest Seamless employees, not subcontractors. This ensures consistent quality and direct accountability.

Malarkey Partnership: We've chosen Malarkey Roofing Products because their commitment to quality and innovation aligns with our values. We're authorized dealers with factory training and support.

Local Physical Presence: We operate from our Bondurant showroom at 2251 Shiloh Rose Pkwy SW, Suite 103. Visit anytime during business hours.

Comprehensive Insurance: Full general liability, workers compensation, and vehicle coverage protects you completely.

Written Warranties: Both Malarkey's manufacturer warranty and our workmanship warranty are provided in writing, clearly explained, and properly registered.

Long Term Commitment: We're here for the life of your roof and beyond. When you need us in 10 or 20 years, we'll be here.

No Pressure, Just Information: We provide detailed information, answer all questions, and give you time to make informed decisions. No pressure tactics, no rush to sign.

Ready to Choose a Contractor You Can Trust?

If you're ready to work with a local, established, family owned contractor with six decades of Central Iowa service and a reputation for quality, contact Midwest Seamless today.

Get started now:

📞 Call: 515.285.8574 or Toll Free: 1.800.544.8574

🏢 Visit Our Showroom: 2251 Shiloh Rose Pkwy SW, Suite 103, Bondurant, Iowa 50035

📧 Email: info@midwestseamless.com

🌐 Request a Free Estimate: MidwestSeamless.com/estimates

Additional resources: View our roofing services Read about Malarkey shingles See our project gallery Read customer testimonials Learn about our company history

Final Thoughts: Quality, Integrity, and Long Term Value

After 60+ years serving Central Iowa, we've learned that contractor choice is the most important decision you'll make for your roof replacement. Premium shingles installed poorly fail quickly. Budget shingles installed expertly by experienced professionals last decades.

Storm chasers and fly by night operators might offer lower initial prices, but the true cost, once you factor in poor quality, voided warranties, and inevitable replacement, is dramatically higher than working with established local contractors from the start.

At Midwest Seamless, we're expanding into roofing because Des Moines homeowners deserve the same quality, integrity, and long term value in roofing that we've delivered for windows and siding since 1963. We're not storm chasers. We're not here today, gone tomorrow. We're your neighbors, deeply rooted in this community, committed to protecting Iowa homes for generations to come.

When you choose Midwest Seamless for your roofing project, you're choosing 60+ years of proven integrity, BBB A+ rated service, and a family owned business that stands behind every roof we install, not just this year but for decades to come.

Contact us today to experience the difference that genuine quality, local accountability, and long term commitment make. We'd be honored to protect your home with the same dedication we've brought to thousands of Central Iowa families since 1963.

Midwest Seamless has proudly served Central Iowa homeowners since 1963. As a trusted partner for Malarkey Roofing Products, SoftLite Windows, and premium exterior products, we're committed to using only the finest American made materials and delivering exceptional craftsmanship on every project. BBB A+ rated, family owned, and deeply rooted in the Des Moines community, we're here to protect Iowa homes for generations to come.