For far too many Fox Point homeowners, Mother Nature offers notice that a new roof is needed.
A strong storm blows through … and the signs appear. A few shingles in the yard. A water mark on a ceiling. Shingle granules accumulated in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has broken down. The breakdown will likely only hasten, leaving all it protects vulnerable to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could restore the roof yourself - if you’re unafraid of heights, able to maintain balance at varied angles, and have the right tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, hire a professional roofing installer.
Choosing a roofer in Fox Point takes work. It’s a crowded market. Personal referrals – good and bad – are highly valuable. So is taking the time to delve into a company’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has offered top-quality roof replacement services in Fox Point and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its veteran local roofers have encountered every situation (and repair) imaginable. Trust your roof replacement to RNB Design Group, knowing it’s backed by the best roofers and nearly three decades of satisfied customers.
Keep an eye out for roofing companies who offer a “too good to be true” price. They might leave town the moment as your payment clears. Got an issue later with your roof? You’re on your own.
The first question you might have pertaining to roof installation is: Do I require a tear-off? If a roof has two layers of roof shingles, the answer is “Yes.”
Even if just one layer is present, a tear-off is recommended. Adding a second layer can void the warranty on many shingle brands. Skipping a tear-off also passes on the chance to spot underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll have to choose roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While known for lifespan and durability, the cost scares off many Fox Point homeowners.
Most select asphalt shingles, the most typical roof covering. Its color and style choices have grown exponentially, offering new aesthetic and longevity choices. Consumers have three general categories to choose from:
Some shingles carry extra benefits: resistance to algae growth. Enhanced protection against hail. Color technologies that reflect sunlight and reduce energy costs.
Choices, choices. Which is correct for you?
The answer depends on your preferred aesthetics and, of course, budget. Like so many other home products, you typically get what you pay for. It’s advisable to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and consult with roofing professionals when making a decision.
Review the warranty provided on roofing products, too. They are loaded with conditions and exclusions.
If you run into a warranty issue at some point, the reasons could be many: material defects, such as shingles cracking or splitting. Installation errors. Weather-related damage. Improper repairs. Lack of maintenance.
Which warranty applies? Is it the manufacturer’s warranty, which addresses material defects? A contractor’s warranty, which covers installation-related issues? Or is the problem addressed only if you bought an extended warranty?
Top roofing manufacturers typically warranty their products for 20 to 50 years. The variance depends on products bought. The fine print might omit coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a Fox Point roofing provider. Red flags on a provider’s warranty might be a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or perhaps no written warranty at all. Always ask about warranty when vetting possible vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, thoroughly review all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties promptly and hold onto records. Finally, examine your roof frequently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, very unwelcome message!
After possibly weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof replacement usually takes only one or two days. Workers take off old shingles. If dubious roof decking is discovered, the material is repaired or replaced. Usually an underlayment material, or ice and water shield, is applied over roof boards.
More metalwork is involved than one might expect. Roof flashing is often replaced, to better direct water away from critical areas such as chimneys. Roof vents are added or replaced to improve attic ventilation. Pipe boots prevent leaks around protruding pipes. Drip edges aid water flow off a roof.
A Fox Point roof installation typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The cost depends on the materials used, and size and characteristics of the roof. Either way, it’s a sizable investment … making advance due diligence time well spent.
If a company offers a bargain-basement price … take a good, hard look at the company’s background, and the fine print in its documents. If they hesitate to provide documentation, consider it a huge red sign screaming “STOP!”
Interested in roof replacement in Fox Point by a longstanding roofing contractor with hundreds of satisfied customers? Contact RNB Design Group for information on roofing that will be done right, and backed by a company that isn’t going anywhere. If you hear alarm bells, they’ll be going off about your making the right choice!