For a multitude of Bowers homeowners, Mother Nature offers notice that a new roof is necessary.
A strong storm blows through … and the signs appear. A couple shingles in the yard. A water mark on a ceiling. Shingle granules collected in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has broken down. The deterioration will likely only accelerate, leaving everything it protects open to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could restore the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to maintain balance at different angles, and have the right tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, reach out to a professional roofing installer.
Selecting a roofer in Bowers takes research. It’s a crowded market. Personal referrals – good and bad – are highly valuable. So is taking the time to look into a company’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has provided top-quality roof replacement services in Bowers and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its experienced local roofers have dealt with 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 about 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 another layer can cancel the warranty on many shingle brands. Declining a tear-off also passes on 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 scares off many Bowers homeowners.
Most buy 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 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 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 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 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 involved. The fine print might disregard coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Bowers roofing installer. Red flags on a contractor’s warranty might be a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or maybe no written warranty at all. Always inquire about warranty when vetting possible vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, thoroughly review all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties promptly and keep records. Finally, examine your roof frequently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, very unwelcome message!
After likely weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof replacement usually takes only one or two days. Workers take off old shingles. If problematic 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 Bowers roof installation 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 advance 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 installation in Bowers 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!