Contractor insights: Clint Tuthill, sales manager, Greater Midwest Exteriors

By DaVinci Roofscapes.

Experienced sales manager Clint Tuthill answers homeowners' top questions about roofing.

Most homeowners replace a roof just once or twice in their lifetimes, so it’s a big deal. That’s why we offer advice from some of the very best roofers in the business. Clint Tuthill, sales manager with Greater Midwest Exteriors out of Shorewood, Illinois, is sharing his top tips in this month’s issue of “Contractor Insights.” We hope these insights make your roofing project go smoothly!

Q: What are the top three things homeowners should ask a roofer about when looking for a replacement roof?

A:

1. First, ask the roofer to describe their installation process and request a detailed estimate (then verify if the items and their descriptions match up).
2. Second, ask for the addresses or photos of homes where the roofer has installed similar products — even similar colors — on houses. Then check out the roofs on those homes for quality of workmanship.
3. And finally, request an example of a project that had issues for the roofer, or was difficult to handle. Ask how they resolved the problem. This will tell you a lot about the contractor.

Q: Why should homeowners seriously consider composite roofing when looking for a roof?

A: Oftentimes people are replacing real cedar, which is a tremendous maintenance hassle. With composite roofing, there’s no need to preserve or repair the roof every four to six years. That’s very appealing to most people. Also with a composite, the color you choose is the color you get for a lifetime. It’s comforting to know that you won’t have black areas or streaks in the future that make the roof look aged and tired. That consistency with composite roofing is a real asset.

Q: What are your best “homeowner survival tips” for getting through a roofing installation? 

A: Trust your contractor, but know it’s a challenging process. Qualified contractors will explain the installation process in detail in advance to prepare you. However, every project has at least one surprise. Be flexible and know that the roofing crew are pros that are dedicated to getting the job done for you the right way.

Q: If there’s storm damage involved to a roof, what tips do you have for a homeowner working with an insurance adjuster?

A: Be patient. Each claim is different and involves different timeframes. Also, be willing to stand with your roofer; we’re on your side. We both benefit if we provide a unified front to the insurance adjuster to make sure you receive the payment and services spelled out in your policy.

Q: Why has your company chosen to recommend DaVinci composite roofing to your customers?

A: DaVinci provides a solid product and stands behind their materials. The finished projects we’ve done in the Chicagoland area speak for themselves. Remember, “it’s not bragging if you can back it up…” Also, in our case at Greater Midwest Exteriors, our dealer and support staff are always available to answer questions and troubleshoot any issues. 

Learn more about DaVinci Roofscapes here.