For a multitude of Williams Bay 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 stain 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 open to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re unafraid of heights, able to keep your balance at different angles, and have the pertinent tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, bring in a professional roofing company.
Choosing a roofer in Williams Bay takes time. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are highly valuable. So is taking the time to look into a contractor’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has delivered top-quality roof replacement services in Williams Bay and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its experienced local roofers have dealt with every situation (and repair) conceivable. Trust your roof replacement 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 offer a “too good to be true” price. They might skip town the moment 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 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 a second layer can void the warranty on many shingle brands. Skipping a tear-off also misses the opportunity to spot 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 expense scares off many Williams Bay homeowners.
Most opt for asphalt shingles, the most typical 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 provide 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 wise to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and consult with roofing professionals when making a decision.
Review 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 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 typically 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 Williams Bay roofing provider. Red flags on a provider’s warranty might be a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or maybe no written warranty at all. Always ask about warranty when vetting potential vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully review all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties promptly and keep records. Finally, inspect your roof regularly. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, very unwelcome message!
After possibly weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof replacement usually takes only one or two days. Workers remove 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 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 Williams Bay 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 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 Williams Bay 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!