For a multitude of Bethesda homeowners, Mother Nature gives notice that a new roof is needed.
A strong storm blows through … and the signs appear. A few shingles in the yard. A water discoloration on a ceiling. Shingle granules collected in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has deteriorated. The deterioration will likely only hasten, leaving all it protects open to wind, rain and snow.
Perhaps you could restore the roof yourself - if you’re unafraid of heights, able to maintain balance at different angles, and have the right tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, hire a professional roofing contractor.
Deciding on a roofer in Bethesda takes time. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are invaluable. So is taking the time to look into a provider’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has offered high-quality roof replacement services in Bethesda 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 satisfied customers.
Keep an eye out for roofing companies who dangle a “too good to be true” package. They might leave town as soon as as your payment clears. Got a problem later with your roof? You’re on your own.
The first question you might have pertaining to roof installation 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 void the warranty on many shingle brands. Passing on a tear-off also misses the opportunity 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 known for lifespan and durability, the cost scares off many Bethesda 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 offer extra benefits: resistance to algae growth. Enhanced protection against hail. Color technologies that reflect sunlight and reduce energy costs.
Choices, choices. Which is right 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 wise to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and converse with roofing professionals when making a decision.
Review the warranty provided on roofing products, too. They are loaded with conditions and exclusions.
If you run into a warranty issue at some point, 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 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 usually warranty their products for 20 to 50 years. The variance depends on products involved. The fine print might exclude coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Bethesda roofing provider. Red flags on a provider’s warranty include a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or maybe no written warranty at all. Always inquire about warranty when vetting potential vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully scrutinize all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties promptly and hold onto records. Finally, examine your roof consistently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, highly 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 dubious roof decking is identified, 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 Bethesda roof installation typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The price depends on the materials selected, 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 Bethesda 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!