For quite a few Walworth County homeowners, Mother Nature provides notice that a new roof is needed.
A strong storm blows through … and the signs emerge. A smattering of 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 quicken, leaving all it protects vulnerable to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to keep your balance at different angles, and have the right tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, reach out to a professional roofing provider.
Finding a roofer in Walworth County takes time. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are invaluable. So is taking the time to look into a provider’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has delivered top-quality roof replacement services in Walworth County and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its veteran 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 satisfied customers.
Watch out for roofing companies who offer a “too good to be true” price. 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 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. Passing on a tear-off also misses the chance to identify 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 cost scares off many Walworth County homeowners.
Most buy asphalt shingles, the most common 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 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 desired 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.
Consider the warranty offered on roofing products, too. They are loaded with conditions and exclusions.
If you run into a warranty issue down the road, 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 covers the situation? Is it the manufacturer’s warranty, which covers 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 involved. The fine print might omit coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a Walworth County roofing installer. Red flags on a company’s warranty might be a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or perhaps no written warranty at all. Always ask about warranty when checking potential vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, thoroughly peruse all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties promptly and keep records. Finally, examine your roof frequently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, highly unwelcome message!
After maybe weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof installation usually takes only one or two days. Workers remove 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 Walworth County 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 significant 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 Walworth County 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!