For far too many New Berlin homeowners, Mother Nature offers notice that a new roof is required.
A lively storm blows through … and the signs show up. A couple shingles in the yard. A water discoloration on a ceiling. Shingle granules piled up in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has deteriorated. The breakdown will likely only quicken, leaving all it covers vulnerable to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could restore 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, hire a professional roofing company.
Picking a roofer in New Berlin takes research. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are invaluable. So is taking the time to research a contractor’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has offered high-quality roof replacement services in New Berlin and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its experienced local roofers have encountered every situation (and repair) imaginable. 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 offer a “too good to be true” package. 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 about 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 a second layer can cancel the warranty on many shingle brands. Passing on a tear-off also misses the chance to identify underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll need to choose roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While known for lifespan and durability, the cost frightens off many New Berlin homeowners.
Most select 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 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 typically get what you pay for. It’s wise to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and check with roofing professionals when making a decision.
Peruse 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 addresses 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 disregard coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a New Berlin roofing company. Red flags on a company’s warranty include a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or perhaps no written warranty at all. Always inquire about warranty when screening potential vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully scrutinize all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties properly and maintain records. Finally, examine your roof regularly. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, highly unwelcome message!
After maybe 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 found, 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 New Berlin roof installation typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The cost 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 company 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 New Berlin 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!