For far too many North Prairie homeowners, Mother Nature delivers notice that a new roof is necessary.
A strong storm blows through … and the signs pop up. A few shingles in the yard. A water leak 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.
Perhaps you could restore the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to maintain balance at different angles, and have the right tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, bring in a professional roofing company.
Selecting a roofer in North Prairie takes research. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are highly valuable. So is taking the time to look into a contractor’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has offered top-quality roof replacement services in North Prairie 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 dangle a “too good to be true” deal. They might leave 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 void the warranty on many shingle brands. Skipping a tear-off also passes on the opportunity to spot 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 expense scares off many North Prairie homeowners.
Most opt for asphalt shingles, the most common roof covering. Its color and style options 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 desired 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.
Look over 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 applies? 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 typically 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 North Prairie 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 properly and keep 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 replacement usually takes only one or two days. Workers take off old shingles. If problematic 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 North Prairie roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The price depends on the materials selected, and size and characteristics of the roof. Either way, it’s a sizable 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 North Prairie 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!