For many Saint Francis homeowners, Mother Nature gives notice that a new roof is necessary.
A lively storm blows through … and the signs pop up. 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 hasten, leaving everything it protects open to wind, rain and snow.
Perhaps you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re unafraid of heights, able to maintain balance at different angles, and have the right tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, hire a professional roofing company.
Picking a roofer in Saint Francis takes time. It’s a crowded marketplace. Personal referrals – good and bad – are invaluable. So is taking the time to delve into a contractor’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has provided top-quality roof replacement services in Saint Francis and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its skilled local roofers have dealt with 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” package. 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 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 advisable. Adding another 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 decide on roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While known for lifespan and durability, the cost frightens off many Saint Francis homeowners.
Most select asphalt shingles, the most typical roof covering. Its color and style choices have expanded exponentially, providing new aesthetic and longevity choices. Consumers have three general categories to choose from:
Some shingles provide extra benefits: resistance to algae growth. Enhanced protection against hail. Color technologies that reflect sunlight and reduce energy costs.
Choices, choices. Which is right 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 wise to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and check with roofing professionals when making a decision.
Scrutinize the warranty provided on roofing products, too. They are loaded with conditions and exclusions.
If you run into a warranty issue later on, the reasons could be numerous: 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 typically warranty their products for 20 to 50 years. The variance depends on products involved. The fine print might disregard coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a Saint Francis roofing installer. Red flags on a contractor’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 review all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties correctly and hold onto records. Finally, examine your roof consistently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, very unwelcome message!
After potentially weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof installation usually takes only one or two days. Workers remove 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 suspect. 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 Saint Francis roof installation typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The price depends on the materials involved, and size and characteristics of the roof. Either way, it’s a significant 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 replacement in Saint Francis 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 going off about your making the right choice!