For many Grafton homeowners, Mother Nature delivers notice that a new roof is necessary.
A powerful storm blows through … and the signs pop up. 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 deterioration will likely only accelerate, leaving everything it covers open to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to keep your balance at varied angles, and have the right tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, call a professional roofing provider.
Finding a roofer in Grafton takes time. It’s a crowded marketplace. 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 Grafton 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.
Beware of roofing companies who offer 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 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 recommended. Adding a second layer can cancel the warranty on many shingle brands. Declining a tear-off also passes on the opportunity to detect 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 frightens off many Grafton homeowners.
Most buy asphalt shingles, the most common roof covering. Its color and style choices have grown exponentially, offering 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 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.
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 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 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 involved. The fine print might omit coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Grafton roofing installer. Red flags on a company’s warranty could be a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or maybe no written warranty at all. Always ask about warranty when screening potential vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, thoroughly scrutinize all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties correctly and hold onto records. Finally, inspect your roof consistently. 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 remove old shingles. If deteriorated roof decking is discovered, 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 Grafton roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The cost 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 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 Grafton by a longstanding 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!