For quite a few Pike Lake homeowners, Mother Nature provides notice that a new roof is required.
A powerful storm blows through … and the signs show up. A couple shingles in the yard. A water leak on a ceiling. Shingle granules collected in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has broken down. The deterioration will likely only hasten, leaving everything it protects open to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could restore the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to keep your balance at varied angles, and have the right tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, hire a professional roofing provider.
Finding a roofer in Pike Lake takes time. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are invaluable. So is taking the time to delve into a company’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has provided high-quality roof replacement services in Pike Lake and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its veteran 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.
Keep an eye out for roofing companies who dangle 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 regarding 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 a second layer can cancel the warranty on many shingle brands. Passing on a tear-off also passes on the chance to spot underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll need to decide on roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While acknowledged for lifespan and durability, the cost scares off many Pike Lake homeowners.
Most buy 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 provide extra benefits: resistance to algae growth. Enhanced protection against hail. Color technologies that reflect sunlight and reduce energy costs.
Choices, choices. Which is correct for you?
The answer depends on your preferred aesthetics and, of course, budget. Like so many other home products, you often 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.
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 purchased. The fine print might omit coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Pike Lake roofing provider. Red flags on a contractor’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, carefully peruse all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties promptly and maintain records. Finally, examine 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 installation usually takes only one or two days. Workers remove old shingles. If dubious 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 suspect. 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 Pike Lake 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 replacement in Pike 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 going off about your making the right choice!