For many Waukesha County homeowners, Mother Nature gives notice that a new roof is required.
A lively storm blows through … and the signs emerge. A couple shingles in the yard. A water mark on a ceiling. Shingle granules accumulated in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has broken down. The deterioration will likely only accelerate, leaving everything it protects susceptible to wind, rain and snow.
Perhaps you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to maintain balance at varied angles, and have the correct tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, bring in a professional roofing installer.
Finding a roofer in Waukesha County takes work. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are highly valuable. So is taking the time to research a company’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has provided high-quality roof replacement services in Waukesha County and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its experienced 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.
Beware of roofing companies who offer a “too good to be true” package. 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 recommended. Adding a second layer can void the warranty on many shingle brands. Skipping a tear-off also misses the opportunity to detect underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll need to choose roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While known for lifespan and durability, the expense scares off many Waukesha County homeowners.
Most select 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 carry 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 preferred aesthetics and, of course, budget. Like so many other home products, you typically 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.
Consider 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 applies? Is it the manufacturer’s warranty, which addresses 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 usually warranty their products for 20 to 50 years. The variance depends on products purchased. The fine print might disregard coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Waukesha County roofing provider. Red flags on a contractor’s warranty include a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or perhaps no written warranty at all. Always ask about warranty when vetting possible 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 likely weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof installation usually takes only one or two days. Workers take off old shingles. If dubious roof decking is located, 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 better ventilate attics. Pipe boots prevent leaks around protruding pipes. Drip edges aid water flow off a roof.
A Waukesha County roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The price depends on the materials chosen, 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 installation in Waukesha County 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 ringing about your making the right choice!