For quite a few Guthrie homeowners, Mother Nature offers notice that a new roof is necessary.
A strong storm blows through … and the signs emerge. A couple shingles in the yard. A water stain on a ceiling. Shingle granules piled up in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has deteriorated. The deterioration will likely only quicken, leaving all it covers susceptible to wind, rain and snow.
Perhaps you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to keep your balance at varied angles, and have the pertinent tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, leave the job to a professional roofing provider.
Choosing a roofer in Guthrie takes time. It’s a crowded marketplace. 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 Guthrie and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its veteran 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 pleased customers.
Watch out for roofing companies who offer 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 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 cancel the warranty on many shingle brands. Skipping a tear-off also passes on the opportunity to spot 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 Guthrie homeowners.
Most choose asphalt shingles, the most common 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 carry 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 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 consult 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 many: 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 covers material defects? A contractor’s warranty, which covers installation-related issues? Or is the problem addressed 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.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a Guthrie roofing provider. Red flags on a provider’s warranty might be a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or perhaps no written warranty at all. Always inquire about warranty when screening potential vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully scrutinize all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties correctly and maintain records. Finally, examine your roof consistently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, very unwelcome message!
After maybe weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof installation usually takes only one or two days. Workers take off old shingles. If questionable 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 improve attic ventilation. Pipe boots prevent leaks around protruding pipes. Drip edges aid water flow off a roof.
A Guthrie roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The cost depends on the materials involved, and size and characteristics of the roof. Either way, it’s a significant 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 Guthrie 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 going off about your making the right choice!