For many Oconomowoc homeowners, Mother Nature provides notice that a new roof is required.
A powerful storm blows through … and the signs appear. A couple shingles in the yard. A water stain on a ceiling. Shingle granules collected in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has broken down. The breakdown will likely only hasten, leaving all it protects vulnerable to wind, rain and snow.
Perhaps you could restore the roof yourself - if you’re unafraid of heights, able to keep your balance at varied angles, and have the right tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, hire a professional roofing installer.
Finding a roofer in Oconomowoc takes time. 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 delivered top-quality roof replacement services in Oconomowoc and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its skilled local roofers have encountered every situation (and repair) conceivable. 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” price. 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 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 recommended. Adding a second layer can void the warranty on many shingle brands. Passing on a tear-off also misses the chance to spot 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 frightens off many Oconomowoc homeowners.
Most buy asphalt shingles, the most typical 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 right 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 advisable to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and check with roofing professionals when making a decision.
Consider the warranty offered 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 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 typically warranty their products for 20 to 50 years. The variance depends on products purchased. The fine print might omit coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Oconomowoc roofing installer. Red flags on a provider’s warranty could be a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or maybe no written warranty at all. Always ask about warranty when checking possible vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully review all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties promptly and hold onto records. Finally, inspect your roof frequently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, very unwelcome message!
After potentially weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof replacement usually takes only one or two days. Workers remove old shingles. If dubious roof decking is located, 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 roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The price depends on the materials involved, 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 Oconomowoc 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 ringing about your making the right choice!