For many Aurora 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 accumulated in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has broken down. The deterioration will likely only accelerate, leaving everything it covers susceptible to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to maintain balance at different angles, and have the pertinent tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, hire a professional roofing installer.
Choosing a roofer in Aurora takes research. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are a great place to start. So is taking the time to look into a company’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has provided high-quality roof replacement services in Aurora 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 pleased customers.
Watch out for roofing companies who offer a “too good to be true” package. 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 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 recommended. Adding another layer can cancel the warranty on many shingle brands. Skipping a tear-off also misses the chance to spot underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll have to select roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While known for lifespan and durability, the cost frightens off many Aurora homeowners.
Most buy asphalt shingles, the most typical 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 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 desired 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 check 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 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 bought. The fine print might exclude coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Aurora roofing contractor. Red flags on a contractor’s warranty might be a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or perhaps no written warranty at all. Always inquire about warranty when reviewing potential 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, highly unwelcome message!
After potentially weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof replacement usually takes only one or two days. Workers remove old shingles. If dubious 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 Aurora roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The cost 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 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 replacement in Aurora 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!