For quite a few Whitefish Bay homeowners, Mother Nature offers notice that a new roof is required.
A strong storm blows through … and the signs appear. A few shingles in the yard. A water leak on a ceiling. Shingle granules piled up in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has deteriorated. The deterioration will likely only quicken, leaving all it covers vulnerable to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to maintain balance at varied angles, and have the right tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, hire a professional roofing provider.
Selecting a roofer in Whitefish Bay takes research. It’s a crowded market. Personal referrals – good and bad – are a great place to start. So is taking the time to delve into a company’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has delivered top-quality roof replacement services in Whitefish Bay and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its experienced 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.
Watch out for roofing companies who dangle a “too good to be true” price. They might skip 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 a second layer can void the warranty on many shingle brands. Skipping a tear-off also passes on the chance to detect underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll need to decide on roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While acknowledged for lifespan and durability, the expense frightens off many Whitefish Bay homeowners.
Most opt for asphalt shingles, the most common roof covering. Its color and style options have expanded 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 the best for you?
The answer depends on your desired aesthetics and, of course, budget. Like so many other home products, you often get what you pay for. It’s advisable to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and converse with roofing professionals when making a decision.
Look over 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 covers the situation? 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 purchased. The fine print might omit coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a Whitefish Bay roofing company. 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 inquire about warranty when screening potential vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully peruse all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties correctly and keep records. Finally, examine your roof consistently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, highly unwelcome message!
After likely weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof replacement usually takes only one or two days. Workers take off old shingles. If problematic roof decking is located, 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 Whitefish Bay roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The cost depends on the materials involved, and size and characteristics of the roof. Either way, it’s a sizable investment … making advance 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 Whitefish Bay 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!