For many Lake Lawn homeowners, Mother Nature offers notice that a new roof is necessary.
A powerful 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 accelerate, leaving all it protects open to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could restore 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, call a professional roofing provider.
Deciding on a roofer in Lake Lawn 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 contractor’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has provided high-quality roof replacement services in Lake Lawn 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.
Beware of roofing companies who offer a “too good to be true” price. They might leave town as soon as as your payment clears. Got an issue later with your roof? You’re on your own.
The first question you might have about roof replacement 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 cancel 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 known for lifespan and durability, the cost frightens off many Lake Lawn homeowners.
Most select 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 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 smart to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and converse with roofing professionals when making a decision.
Consider the warranty provided 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 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 covers material defects? A contractor’s warranty, which covers installation-related issues? Or is the problem addressed only if you bought an extended warranty?
Top roofing manufacturers typically warranty their products for 20 to 50 years. The variance depends on products bought. The fine print might exclude coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a Lake Lawn roofing installer. Red flags on a contractor’s warranty might be a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or maybe no written warranty at all. Always inquire about warranty when vetting possible vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully peruse all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties promptly and maintain records. Finally, inspect your roof frequently. 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 remove old shingles. If dubious 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 expect. 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 Lake Lawn 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 advance 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 installation in Lake Lawn 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!