For many Lake Five homeowners, Mother Nature gives notice that a new roof is required.
A lively storm blows through … and the signs show up. A few 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 breakdown will likely only hasten, leaving all it protects open to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to maintain balance at varied angles, and have the pertinent tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, call a professional roofing provider.
Choosing a roofer in Lake Five takes research. It’s a crowded marketplace. 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 offered high-quality roof replacement services in Lake Five and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its experienced local roofers have dealt with every situation (and repair) imaginable. Trust your roof installation to RNB Design Group, knowing it’s backed by the best roofers and nearly three decades of pleased customers.
Keep an eye out for roofing companies who offer 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 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. Passing on a tear-off also misses the opportunity to identify underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll have to decide on roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While known for lifespan and durability, the cost frightens off many Lake Five homeowners.
Most choose asphalt shingles, the most common roof covering. Its color and style options have expanded exponentially, offering 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 the best 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.
Scrutinize the warranty offered 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 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 bought. The fine print might exclude coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Lake Five roofing contractor. 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 checking possible vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, thoroughly review all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties promptly and keep records. Finally, inspect your roof regularly. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, very unwelcome message!
After possibly weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof replacement usually takes only one or two days. Workers remove 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 Lake Five roof replacement typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The price depends on the materials used, and size and characteristics of the roof. Either way, it’s a significant investment … making advance 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 installation in Lake Five 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!