For far too many Colgate homeowners, Mother Nature provides notice that a new roof is required.
A lively storm blows through … and the signs appear. 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 deteriorated. The breakdown will likely only quicken, leaving everything it protects open to wind, rain and snow.
Perhaps you could restore the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to keep your balance at different angles, and have the right tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, reach out to a professional roofing provider.
Finding a roofer in Colgate takes work. It’s a crowded marketplace. Personal referrals – good and bad – are highly valuable. So is taking the time to research a provider’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has offered top-quality roof replacement services in Colgate and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its skilled local roofers have encountered 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 satisfied customers.
Keep an eye out for roofing companies who dangle a “too good to be true” package. 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 a second layer can cancel the warranty on many shingle brands. Skipping a tear-off also misses the chance to detect underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll have to select roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While known for lifespan and durability, the cost scares off many Colgate homeowners.
Most buy asphalt shingles, the most common roof covering. Its color and style options have grown 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 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 advisable to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and check with roofing professionals when making a decision.
Review 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 addresses 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 usually warranty their products for 20 to 50 years. The variance depends on products bought. The fine print might disregard coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a Colgate roofing company. 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 vetting potential vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, thoroughly peruse all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties correctly and maintain records. Finally, inspect your roof consistently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, very unwelcome message!
After potentially 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 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 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 Colgate 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 company 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 Colgate 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!