For many Edgewood homeowners, Mother Nature provides notice that a new roof is required.
A lively storm blows through … and the signs pop up. A few shingles in the yard. A water discoloration on a ceiling. Shingle granules accumulated in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has deteriorated. The breakdown will likely only hasten, leaving everything it covers susceptible 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 correct tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, bring in a professional roofing installer.
Finding a roofer in Edgewood takes time. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are a great place to start. So is taking the time to look into a contractor’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has provided top-quality roof replacement services in Edgewood and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its veteran local roofers have encountered 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.
Watch out for roofing companies who dangle a “too good to be true” deal. They might leave town as soon as 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 recommended. Adding a second layer can cancel the warranty on many shingle brands. Skipping a tear-off also misses the chance to detect underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll have to decide on roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While acknowledged for lifespan and durability, the expense scares off many Edgewood homeowners.
Most choose asphalt shingles, the most common roof covering. Its color and style options have grown 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 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 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 many: 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 covers 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 involved. The fine print might disregard coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a Edgewood 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 checking potential 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, very unwelcome message!
After likely weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof installation usually takes only one or two days. Workers take off old shingles. If questionable 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 Edgewood roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The cost 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 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 Edgewood by a reputable 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!