For a multitude of Lake Geneva homeowners, Mother Nature offers notice that a new roof is necessary.
A strong storm blows through … and the signs pop up. A few shingles in the yard. A water leak on a ceiling. Shingle granules accumulated in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has broken down. The deterioration will likely only hasten, leaving all it protects susceptible to wind, rain and snow.
Perhaps you could restore 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, hire a professional roofing installer.
Selecting a roofer in Lake Geneva takes research. It’s a crowded marketplace. Personal referrals – good and bad – are a great place to start. So is taking the time to research a provider’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has provided high-quality roof replacement services in Lake Geneva and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its veteran 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 satisfied customers.
Keep an eye out for roofing companies who dangle a “too good to be true” price. They might leave 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 about 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 advisable. Adding a second layer can void 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 scares off many Lake Geneva homeowners.
Most select asphalt shingles, the most typical roof covering. Its color and style choices have expanded 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 often 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 provided 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 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 disregard coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Lake Geneva roofing provider. 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 vetting potential vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, thoroughly peruse all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties properly and hold onto records. Finally, inspect your roof frequently. 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 take off old shingles. If deteriorated 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 Lake Geneva roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The price depends on the materials used, 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 installation in Lake Geneva 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!