For a multitude of Richfield homeowners, Mother Nature provides notice that a new roof is required.
A strong storm blows through … and the signs pop up. A smattering of shingles in the yard. A water mark 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 restore the roof yourself - if you’re unafraid of heights, able to keep your balance at varied angles, and have the right tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, bring in a professional roofing installer.
Choosing a roofer in Richfield takes research. It’s a crowded marketplace. Personal referrals – good and bad – are highly valuable. So is taking the time to delve into a contractor’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has delivered top-quality roof replacement services in Richfield and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its skilled 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 pleased customers.
Keep an eye out for roofing companies who offer a “too good to be true” price. They might skip town the moment as your payment clears. Got an issue 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 cancel the warranty on many shingle brands. Declining a tear-off also misses the chance to identify 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 cost scares off many Richfield 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 right 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 smart 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 covers material defects? A contractor’s warranty, which addresses installation-related issues? Or is the problem addressed only if you bought an extended warranty?
Top roofing manufacturers typically 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 Richfield roofing company. 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 screening potential vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully scrutinize all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties correctly and keep records. Finally, examine your roof frequently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, very unwelcome message!
After likely weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof replacement usually takes only one or two days. Workers take off old shingles. If deteriorated 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 improve attic ventilation. Pipe boots prevent leaks around protruding pipes. Drip edges aid water flow off a roof.
A Richfield roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The price depends on the materials used, and size and characteristics of the roof. Either way, it’s a significant investment … making pre-project due diligence time well spent.
If a contractor 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 Richfield 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 going off about your making the right choice!