For a multitude of Saint Michaels homeowners, Mother Nature gives notice that a new roof is needed.
A powerful storm blows through … and the signs show up. A few shingles in the yard. A water leak on a ceiling. Shingle granules accumulated in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has deteriorated. The breakdown will likely only quicken, leaving all it protects vulnerable to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could restore the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to maintain balance at varied angles, and have the right tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, reach out to a professional roofing installer.
Deciding on a roofer in Saint Michaels takes time. It’s a crowded market. Personal referrals – good and bad – are highly valuable. So is taking the time to research a provider’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has delivered high-quality roof replacement services in Saint Michaels and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its experienced 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 satisfied customers.
Watch out for roofing companies who offer a “too good to be true” package. 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 regarding 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 advisable. Adding another layer can void the warranty on many shingle brands. Declining a tear-off also passes on the opportunity to identify underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll need to select roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While known for lifespan and durability, the expense scares off many Saint Michaels homeowners.
Most buy asphalt shingles, the most typical roof covering. Its color and style choices have grown exponentially, providing new aesthetic and longevity choices. Consumers have three general categories to choose from:
Some shingles offer 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 often get what you pay for. It’s smart 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 down the road, 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 addressed 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 disregard coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a Saint Michaels roofing provider. 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 ask about warranty when checking possible vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, thoroughly peruse all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties correctly and maintain records. Finally, examine your roof consistently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, highly unwelcome message!
After likely 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 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 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 Saint Michaels roof installation 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 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 replacement in Saint Michaels 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!