For many Little Prairie homeowners, Mother Nature gives notice that a new roof is required.
A strong storm blows through … and the signs appear. A smattering of shingles in the yard. A water leak on a ceiling. Shingle granules accumulated in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has deteriorated. The deterioration will likely only quicken, leaving all it protects vulnerable to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe 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, bring in a professional roofing installer.
Picking a roofer in Little Prairie takes research. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are invaluable. 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 Little Prairie 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 satisfied customers.
Watch out for roofing companies who dangle a “too good to be true” package. 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 about 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 recommended. Adding another layer can void the warranty on many shingle brands. Passing on a tear-off also passes on the opportunity to detect underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll have to choose roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While acknowledged for lifespan and durability, the cost frightens off many Little Prairie homeowners.
Most opt for asphalt shingles, the most common roof covering. Its color and style choices 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 right 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 consult 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 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 applies? Is it the manufacturer’s warranty, which addresses material defects? A contractor’s warranty, which covers 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 involved. The fine print might disregard coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Little Prairie roofing company. Red flags on a company’s warranty could be a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or perhaps no written warranty at all. Always ask about warranty when screening possible vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully scrutinize all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties properly and keep records. Finally, examine your roof consistently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, highly unwelcome message!
After potentially 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 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 expect. 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 Little Prairie roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The cost depends on the materials used, and size and characteristics of the roof. Either way, it’s a sizable 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 installation in Little Prairie 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!