Considering a Gilsonite aluminium roof coating? Start with these questions.

1. What is already on the roof?

Tell the contractor what the roof is made from, whether it has been coated before and whether there have been repairs. If you have an old invoice or product name, that is useful information.

A quote should identify the proposed coating product and the surface it will be applied to. Ask how suitability for your existing roof will be checked.

2. What needs attention before coating?

Flag any known leaks, damaged sheets, loose fixings or visible deterioration. Ask which items are included in the coating quote and which need a separate repair trade.

Do not treat a fresh finish as confirmation that the underlying roof is sound. Make the condition assessment part of the conversation.

3. What preparation is included?

Ask for the preparation to be described in writing. A one-line price for “roof coating” makes it difficult to compare the actual work.

• What cleaning and surface preparation is allowed for?
• How will existing loose coatings or affected areas be dealt with?
• What primers or other products are proposed, where needed?
• How will access and the surrounding property be managed?

4. What do the performance claims relate to?

Ask for the current technical information for the exact product being quoted. If heat reflection, corrosion protection, service life or a warranty is mentioned, get the applicable conditions in writing.

A general description of an aluminium roof coating is not a substitute for the chosen manufacturer’s instructions and the agreed job scope.

5. What happens after the work?

Ask what maintenance is recommended, what paperwork you will receive and who to contact if you notice a problem. Keep the quote, product details and completion information together with your building records.

For a first conversation with Andrew, send the location, building use, approximate roof size if known, and a description of its condition.