For a multitude of Oconomowoc Lake homeowners, Mother Nature delivers notice that a new roof is necessary.
A powerful storm blows through … and the signs appear. A few shingles in the yard. A water mark on a ceiling. Shingle granules piled up in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has deteriorated. The breakdown will likely only hasten, leaving all it covers susceptible to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re unafraid of heights, able to maintain balance at different angles, and have the correct tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, bring in a professional roofing contractor.
Finding a roofer in Oconomowoc Lake 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 contractor’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has delivered high-quality roof replacement services in Oconomowoc Lake and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its veteran 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” deal. They might skip 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 pertaining to roof replacement 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 void 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 have 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 Oconomowoc Lake homeowners.
Most select asphalt shingles, the most common 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 usually get what you pay for. It’s wise to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and converse 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 many: 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 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.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Oconomowoc Lake roofing installer. Red flags on a company’s warranty might be a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or perhaps no written warranty at all. Always ask about warranty when reviewing potential vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully peruse all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties properly and keep records. Finally, inspect your roof frequently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, very unwelcome message!
After maybe weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof installation 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 expect. 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 Oconomowoc Lake roof replacement 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 significant 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 Oconomowoc Lake 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!