For many Greendale homeowners, Mother Nature delivers notice that a new roof is needed.
A powerful storm blows through … and the signs show up. A smattering of shingles in the yard. A water stain on a ceiling. Shingle granules piled up in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has broken down. The deterioration will likely only hasten, leaving all it protects vulnerable to wind, rain and snow.
Perhaps you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re unafraid of heights, able to keep your balance at varied angles, and have the pertinent tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, call a professional roofing provider.
Choosing a roofer in Greendale takes time. It’s a crowded market. Personal referrals – good and bad – are highly valuable. So is taking the time to delve into a contractor’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has delivered top-quality roof replacement services in Greendale and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its skilled local roofers have encountered every situation (and repair) imaginable. Trust your roof installation 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 skip 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 regarding 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 cancel the warranty on many shingle brands. Declining a tear-off also misses the chance to spot underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll need to decide on roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While acknowledged for lifespan and durability, the expense scares off many Greendale homeowners.
Most select asphalt shingles, the most typical roof covering. Its color and style options have expanded exponentially, offering 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 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.
Scrutinize 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 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 bought. The fine print might exclude coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Greendale roofing installer. Red flags on a contractor’s warranty include a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or maybe no written warranty at all. Always inquire about warranty when checking potential vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully peruse 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, 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 questionable 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 improve attic ventilation. Pipe boots prevent leaks around protruding pipes. Drip edges aid water flow off a roof.
A Greendale 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 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 Greendale 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 going off about your making the right choice!