For far too many River Hills homeowners, Mother Nature provides notice that a new roof is necessary.
A lively storm blows through … and the signs emerge. A couple shingles in the yard. A water leak on a ceiling. Shingle granules accumulated in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has broken down. The breakdown will likely only quicken, 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 pertinent tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, hire a professional roofing company.
Finding a roofer in River Hills takes work. It’s a crowded market. Personal referrals – good and bad – are invaluable. So is taking the time to research a provider’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has provided top-quality roof replacement services in River Hills and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its experienced local roofers have dealt with every situation (and repair) conceivable. Trust your roof replacement to RNB Design Group, knowing it’s backed by the best roofers and nearly three decades of pleased customers.
Watch out for roofing companies who dangle a “too good to be true” package. They might leave town the moment as your payment clears. Got a problem later with your roof? You’re on your own.
The first question you might have regarding roof replacement is: Do I need 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 another layer can cancel the warranty on many shingle brands. Passing on a tear-off also misses the opportunity to detect underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll have to decide on roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While known for lifespan and durability, the expense scares off many River Hills homeowners.
Most opt for asphalt shingles, the most common roof covering. Its color and style options have expanded exponentially, providing 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 the best for you?
The answer depends on your desired aesthetics and, of course, budget. Like so many other home products, you usually get what you pay for. It’s smart to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and check with roofing professionals when making a decision.
Peruse the warranty offered 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 covered only if you bought an extended warranty?
Top roofing manufacturers usually warranty their products for 20 to 50 years. The variance depends on products involved. The fine print might omit coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a River Hills roofing installer. Red flags on a company’s warranty include a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or maybe no written warranty at all. Always ask about warranty when checking potential vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully peruse all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties correctly and maintain records. Finally, inspect your roof frequently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, highly unwelcome message!
After possibly weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof installation usually takes only one or two days. Workers remove old shingles. If questionable roof decking is found, 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 suspect. Roof flashing is often replaced, to better direct water away from critical areas such as chimneys. Roof vents are added or replaced to better ventilate attics. Pipe boots prevent leaks around protruding pipes. Drip edges aid water flow off a roof.
A River Hills roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The price depends on the materials selected, and size and characteristics of the roof. Either way, it’s a sizable investment … making pre-project due diligence time well spent.
If a contractor 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 installation in River Hills by a trusted 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 ringing about your making the right choice!