For far too many Saint Lawrence homeowners, Mother Nature provides notice that a new roof is necessary.
A strong 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 breakdown will likely only hasten, leaving all it protects vulnerable to wind, rain and snow.
Perhaps you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to keep your balance at different angles, and have the pertinent tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, leave the job to a professional roofing company.
Choosing a roofer in Saint Lawrence takes time. It’s a crowded market. Personal referrals – good and bad – are a great place to start. 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 Saint Lawrence 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 satisfied customers.
Beware of roofing companies who dangle a “too good to be true” deal. They might leave 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 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 detect 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 Saint Lawrence homeowners.
Most choose asphalt shingles, the most typical 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 usually get what you pay for. It’s advisable to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and consult with roofing professionals when making a decision.
Consider the warranty provided 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 covers the situation? 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 involved. The fine print might omit coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a Saint Lawrence roofing contractor. Red flags on a contractor’s warranty include a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or perhaps no written warranty at all. Always ask about warranty when screening potential vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, thoroughly review all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties promptly and maintain 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 installation usually takes only one or two days. Workers remove 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 Saint Lawrence roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The price depends on the materials chosen, 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 Saint Lawrence 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!