For quite a few La Grange homeowners, Mother Nature provides notice that a new roof is required.
A lively storm blows through … and the signs appear. A smattering of shingles in the yard. A water leak on a ceiling. Shingle granules collected in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has deteriorated. The deterioration will likely only accelerate, leaving all it protects open to wind, rain and snow.
Perhaps you could restore the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to maintain balance at different angles, and have the correct tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, leave the job to a professional roofing company.
Selecting a roofer in La Grange takes time. It’s a crowded market. Personal referrals – good and bad – are a great place to start. So is taking the time to look into a company’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has delivered high-quality roof replacement services in La Grange and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its skilled local roofers have dealt with every situation (and repair) imaginable. Trust your roof installation to RNB Design Group, knowing it’s backed by the best roofers and nearly three decades of pleased customers.
Beware of roofing companies who dangle a “too good to be true” deal. They might leave 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 replacement 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 another layer can void the warranty on many shingle brands. Declining 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 acknowledged for lifespan and durability, the cost scares off many La Grange 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 right for you?
The answer depends on your preferred aesthetics and, of course, budget. Like so many other home products, you often 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.
Look over 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 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 addressed only if you bought an extended warranty?
Top roofing manufacturers usually warranty their products for 20 to 50 years. The variance depends on products bought. The fine print might disregard coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a La Grange roofing company. 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 ask about warranty when checking possible vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, thoroughly review all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties properly and hold onto records. Finally, examine your roof regularly. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, very unwelcome message!
After maybe weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof installation usually takes only one or two days. Workers take off 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 La Grange roof replacement 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 sizable investment … making pre-project due diligence time well spent.
If a company 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 La Grange by a reputable 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!