For a multitude of Hartford homeowners, Mother Nature provides notice that a new roof is needed.
A strong storm blows through … and the signs emerge. A few 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 hasten, leaving all it covers 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, hire a professional roofing contractor.
Choosing a roofer in Hartford takes work. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are highly valuable. So is taking the time to research a company’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has offered top-quality roof replacement services in Hartford and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its skilled local roofers have encountered every situation (and repair) imaginable. Trust your roof installation to RNB Design Group, knowing it’s backed by the best roofers and nearly three decades of pleased customers.
Keep an eye out for roofing companies who dangle a “too good to be true” package. They might leave 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 advisable. Adding another layer can cancel 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 need to choose roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While known for lifespan and durability, the cost scares off many Hartford homeowners.
Most buy asphalt shingles, the most common roof covering. Its color and style options have expanded exponentially, offering 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 typically get what you pay for. It’s wise to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and converse with roofing professionals when making a decision.
Review the warranty offered 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 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 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 typically warranty their products for 20 to 50 years. The variance depends on products purchased. The fine print might disregard coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Hartford 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 checking possible vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, thoroughly review all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties correctly and hold onto records. Finally, examine 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 installation usually takes only one or two days. Workers remove old shingles. If problematic roof decking is located, 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 Hartford 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 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 Hartford by a trusted 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!