For far too many Lauderdale Shores homeowners, Mother Nature delivers notice that a new roof is necessary.
A powerful storm blows through … and the signs pop up. A few shingles in the yard. A water stain on a ceiling. Shingle granules accumulated in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has deteriorated. The deterioration will likely only hasten, leaving all it protects susceptible 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 right tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, leave the job to a professional roofing contractor.
Deciding on a roofer in Lauderdale Shores takes time. It’s a crowded marketplace. Personal referrals – good and bad – are invaluable. So is taking the time to look into a contractor’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has delivered high-quality roof replacement services in Lauderdale Shores 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.
Beware of roofing companies who offer a “too good to be true” deal. 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 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 recommended. Adding a second layer can cancel the warranty on many shingle brands. Declining a tear-off also passes on the chance 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 frightens off many Lauderdale Shores homeowners.
Most opt for asphalt shingles, the most typical roof covering. Its color and style options have grown exponentially, providing 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 preferred aesthetics and, of course, budget. Like so many other home products, you usually 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 at some point, 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 applies? 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 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.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Lauderdale Shores roofing provider. Red flags on a provider’s warranty could be a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or perhaps no written warranty at all. Always ask about warranty when vetting possible vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully peruse all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties promptly and keep records. Finally, inspect your roof regularly. 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 take off old shingles. If deteriorated roof decking is discovered, 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 Lauderdale Shores roof installation 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 sizable 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 Lauderdale Shores by a longstanding 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!