For a multitude of Lakefield homeowners, Mother Nature gives notice that a new roof is required.
A powerful storm blows through … and the signs pop up. A couple shingles in the yard. A water discoloration on a ceiling. Shingle granules collected 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.
Maybe you could restore the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to keep your balance at different angles, and have the correct tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, bring in a professional roofing installer.
Selecting a roofer in Lakefield takes research. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are highly valuable. So is taking the time to delve into a provider’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has offered high-quality roof replacement services in Lakefield and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its experienced local roofers have encountered every situation (and repair) conceivable. Trust your roof installation 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” price. They might skip town as soon as as your payment clears. Got a problem later with your roof? You’re on your own.
The first question you might have regarding 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 advisable. Adding a second layer can void the warranty on many shingle brands. Skipping a tear-off also misses the opportunity to spot underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll have to select roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While acknowledged for lifespan and durability, the cost frightens off many Lakefield homeowners.
Most select asphalt shingles, the most typical roof covering. Its color and style choices have grown exponentially, providing new aesthetic and longevity choices. Consumers have three general categories to choose from:
Some shingles offer 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 preferred aesthetics and, of course, budget. Like so many other home products, you typically 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.
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 addresses 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 purchased. The fine print might exclude coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Lakefield roofing installer. Red flags on a provider’s warranty could be a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or maybe no written warranty at all. Always inquire about warranty when screening possible vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully scrutinize all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties correctly and hold onto records. Finally, inspect your roof consistently. 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 improve attic ventilation. Pipe boots prevent leaks around protruding pipes. Drip edges aid water flow off a roof.
A Lakefield roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The price depends on the materials used, and size and characteristics of the roof. Either way, it’s a sizable investment … making pre-project due diligence time well spent.
If a vendor 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 Lakefield 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!