R.T. Construction in Chattanooga: Residential and Commercial Roofing with Local Warranty Options
R.T. Construction is a licensed roofing contractor serving Chattanooga and surrounding areas, handling both residential replacements and repairs across asphalt shingles, metal, and architectural options. The company operates as a full-service outfit rather than a specialty firm, meaning they manage the entire job from inspection through cleanup rather than subcontracting portions out.
Materials and Warranty Coverage
R.T. Construction installs three primary roofing systems. Asphalt shingles dominate residential work; the company stocks 3-tab and architectural grades, with architectural shingles running roughly 15 to 25 percent higher in material cost than basic 3-tab but lasting longer and resisting wind better. Metal roofing, available in standing seam and corrugated profiles, costs more upfront but performs well in Chattanooga's mix of rain and occasional hail, with a 40 to 50-year lifespan compared to asphalt's 15 to 25 years. A full asphalt roof replacement on a 2,000-square-foot home typically falls in the $8,000 to $12,000 range; metal systems run $15,000 to $22,000 for the same footprint. Warranty terms vary by material: manufacturer shingle warranties cover 25 to 30 years against defects, while R.T. Construction's workmanship warranty is typically 10 years on installation. Metal roofing often carries longer manufacturer guarantees, sometimes 30 years or more depending on finish type.
Licensing, Insurance, and Inspection Process
R.T. Construction holds a valid Tennessee roofing contractor license and carries liability and workers' compensation insurance, both required before any bid should be accepted. The inspection process begins with a free on-site walk, where the contractor assesses current roof condition, identifying leaks, missing shingles, flashing damage, or structural issues like sagging decking that affects replacement cost. This inspection typically takes 30 to 45 minutes and includes recommendations on whether repair or replacement makes financial sense. A roof nearing the end of its lifespan often costs more to repair piecemeal than to replace outright; R.T. Construction will usually break this math down in writing. Most estimates are provided within 48 hours and remain valid for 30 days, giving you time to compare quotes without pressure.
How R.T. Construction Compares to Other Chattanooga Roofers
Chattanooga has both national franchises (Roofing Contractors Association members) and independent operators. National chains like Owens Corning-affiliated installers typically charge 10 to 20 percent more but offer standardized processes and easier insurance claim navigation; they suit homeowners who prioritize brand backing. R.T. Construction, as an independent, often undercuts those chains on straightforward jobs while maintaining the same licensing standards. Other local roofers like Blythe Construction focus more on commercial metal buildings, making them less competitive for typical residential shingle work. Choose R.T. Construction for residential asphalt or metal jobs where direct communication with the owner matters; choose a national franchise if you want brand-name project management and the security of a publicly traded company's warranty backup.
Who It Suits and Who It Does Not
R.T. Construction works well for homeowners replacing a roof that has reached end-of-life, upgrading to metal, or addressing storm damage through insurance claims. The company handles both small repairs (flashing leaks, missing shingles) and full tear-offs. Customers who value local relationships and prefer talking directly to the person overseeing their project fit well here. It is less suitable if you need same-day emergency tarping during an active leak (call for availability) or if you want to hire a roofer without verifying their insurance independently. DIY-oriented homeowners considering a roof themselves should understand that Chattanooga's building code requires a permit and licensed installation for any replacement; R.T. Construction obtains permits as part of the job.
The First Visit and Timeline
After you request an estimate, the company schedules a time within a few days. The inspector climbs the roof (or uses binoculars from the ground if safety is a concern) and notes square footage, pitch, existing materials, and any damage. If you have photos of leaks or problem areas, bring them. The estimate arrives in writing, listing materials, labor, debris removal, and warranty terms. Once you approve, R.T. Construction orders materials and schedules installation, typically within 2 to 4 weeks depending on season. The actual installation usually takes one to three days for a full replacement. Crew shows up early, sets up tarps to protect landscaping, removes the old roof, installs underlayment and new shingles or metal, and hauls away debris the same day.
Hours and Contact
R.T. Construction operates Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with occasional Saturday appointments for estimates. Call or email for a free inspection; most contractors in Chattanooga do not charge for estimates. Weather delays installations during heavy rain, which is common in spring and fall.
R.T. Construction fills a practical niche in Chattanooga's roofing market: licensed work without the franchise markup, direct owner involvement, and material options suited to the region's climate. For a straightforward residential job, it is worth getting their estimate alongside a national brand to see the difference.
