For many Pell Lake homeowners, Mother Nature provides notice that a new roof is needed.
A strong storm blows through … and the signs show up. A smattering of shingles in the yard. A water discoloration 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 covers susceptible to wind, rain and snow.
Perhaps you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to keep your balance at varied angles, and have the correct tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, reach out to a professional roofing contractor.
Selecting a roofer in Pell Lake takes work. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are highly valuable. So is taking the time to research a contractor’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has delivered top-quality roof replacement services in Pell Lake and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its veteran local roofers have dealt with 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.
Keep an eye out for roofing companies who offer a “too good to be true” price. 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 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. Skipping a tear-off also passes on the chance to identify underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll need to choose roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While known for lifespan and durability, the cost frightens off many Pell Lake homeowners.
Most buy asphalt shingles, the most common roof covering. Its color and style choices have grown 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 desired 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.
Scrutinize the warranty offered 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 covers the situation? 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 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.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a Pell Lake roofing contractor. 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 ask about warranty when checking possible vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully review all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties promptly and maintain records. Finally, examine 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 replacement usually takes only one or two days. Workers take off old shingles. If questionable roof decking is identified, 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 Pell Lake roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The cost depends on the materials selected, and size and characteristics of the roof. Either way, it’s a sizable investment … making pre-project due diligence time well spent.
If a vendor 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 Pell Lake 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 ringing about your making the right choice!