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Roof Replacement Needed? Hire the Best Roofing Contractor in Lake Forest!
For far too many Lake Forest 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 stain on a ceiling. Shingle granules collected in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has broken down. The breakdown will likely only quicken, leaving everything it protects vulnerable to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe 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 contractor.
Choosing a roofer in Lake Forest takes work. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are invaluable. So is taking the time to research a provider’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has delivered high-quality roof replacement services in Lake Forest 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 satisfied customers.
Keep an eye 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 an issue later with your roof? You’re on your own.
What Should I Consider About Roofing Replacement?
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 recommended. Adding another layer can cancel the warranty on many shingle brands. Skipping 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 acknowledged for lifespan and durability, the cost frightens off many Lake Forest homeowners.
Most select asphalt shingles, the most common roof covering. Its color and style choices have grown exponentially, offering new aesthetic and longevity choices. Consumers have three general categories to choose from:
- Strip shingles, the affordable, flat-looking material that covers most Lake Forest homes
- Dimensional shingles, which offer a multi-dimensional appearance and better warranty protection
- Luxury shingles, which provide a realistic portrayal of wood shake or quarried slate roofing
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 preferred 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.
Peruse 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 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 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 disregard coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Lake Forest roofing company. Red flags on a company’s warranty could be a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or maybe no written warranty at all. Always inquire about warranty when vetting possible vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully peruse all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties properly and keep records. Finally, examine your roof consistently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, highly unwelcome message!
What is the Process of Roof Replacement?
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 deteriorated 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 Forest roof installation 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 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 Lake Forest 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!
