For a multitude of Genesee homeowners, Mother Nature delivers notice that a new roof is required.
A lively storm blows through … and the signs show up. A smattering of 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 breakdown will likely only hasten, leaving all it covers vulnerable to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re unafraid of heights, able to maintain balance at varied angles, and have the pertinent tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, bring in a professional roofing company.
Deciding on a roofer in Genesee takes time. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are a great place to start. 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 Genesee and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its skilled local roofers have dealt with every situation (and repair) conceivable. Trust your roof installation to RNB Design Group, knowing it’s backed by the best roofers and nearly three decades of satisfied customers.
Watch out for roofing companies who dangle a “too good to be true” price. They might skip 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 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 recommended. Adding a second layer can void the warranty on many shingle brands. Declining a tear-off also misses the opportunity to detect underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll need to select roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While acknowledged for lifespan and durability, the expense frightens off many Genesee homeowners.
Most opt for asphalt shingles, the most common roof covering. Its color and style options 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 desired 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.
Scrutinize the warranty offered 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 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 exclude coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Genesee roofing company. Red flags on a company’s warranty include a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or perhaps no written warranty at all. Always ask about warranty when reviewing potential vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, thoroughly review all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties properly and maintain records. Finally, examine your roof frequently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, highly unwelcome message!
After possibly 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 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 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 Genesee roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The cost depends on the materials chosen, and size and characteristics of the roof. Either way, it’s a sizable investment … making advance 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 replacement in Genesee 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!