For quite a few Lake Lawn homeowners, Mother Nature offers notice that a new roof is needed.
A lively storm blows through … and the signs show up. A smattering of shingles in the yard. A water stain on a ceiling. Shingle granules collected in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has deteriorated. The deterioration will likely only accelerate, leaving all it covers susceptible to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to maintain balance at different angles, and have the correct tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, reach out to a professional roofing contractor.
Choosing a roofer in Lake Lawn takes work. It’s a crowded market. 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 top-quality roof replacement services in Lake Lawn and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its skilled 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 pleased customers.
Watch out for roofing companies who offer a “too good to be true” price. They might leave 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 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 advisable. Adding a second layer can cancel the warranty on many shingle brands. Skipping a tear-off also misses the chance to identify 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 Lawn homeowners.
Most select asphalt shingles, the most typical 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 the best 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 smart to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and converse with roofing professionals when making a decision.
Look over 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 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 purchased. The fine print might omit coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Lake Lawn roofing contractor. Red flags on a provider’s warranty might 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, carefully peruse all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties correctly and maintain records. Finally, inspect your roof frequently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, highly unwelcome message!
After likely 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 expect. 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 Lake Lawn 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 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 replacement in Lake Lawn 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!