For quite a few Okauchee Lake homeowners, Mother Nature delivers notice that a new roof is required.
A strong storm blows through … and the signs pop up. A few shingles in the yard. A water discoloration on a ceiling. Shingle granules collected in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has broken down. The breakdown will likely only quicken, leaving all it protects susceptible to wind, rain and snow.
Perhaps you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re unafraid of heights, able to keep your balance at different angles, and have the correct tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, leave the job to a professional roofing contractor.
Picking a roofer in Okauchee Lake takes research. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are highly valuable. So is taking the time to research a provider’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has delivered high-quality roof replacement services in Okauchee Lake and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its veteran 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 satisfied customers.
Beware of roofing companies who dangle a “too good to be true” deal. They might skip town the moment as your payment clears. Got a problem later with your roof? You’re on your own.
The first question you might have regarding roof replacement 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. Passing on a tear-off also passes on the chance to detect 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 acknowledged for lifespan and durability, the expense frightens off many Okauchee Lake homeowners.
Most choose 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 carry 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 desired 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.
Consider the warranty offered on roofing products, too. They are loaded with conditions and exclusions.
If you run into a warranty issue down the road, 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 bought. The fine print might omit coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a Okauchee Lake roofing contractor. Red flags on a contractor’s warranty include 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, thoroughly review all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties promptly and maintain records. Finally, examine your roof consistently. 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 take off 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 Okauchee Lake roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The cost depends on the materials involved, and size and characteristics of the roof. Either way, it’s a sizable investment … making advance due diligence time well spent.
If a vendor 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 Okauchee 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!