For quite a few New Berlin homeowners, Mother Nature provides notice that a new roof is needed.
A lively storm blows through … and the signs appear. A couple 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 accelerate, leaving all it protects susceptible to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could restore the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to keep your balance at varied angles, and have the correct tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, hire a professional roofing company.
Choosing a roofer in New Berlin takes time. It’s a crowded market. 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 delivered high-quality roof replacement services in New Berlin and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its experienced 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.
Keep an eye 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 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 recommended. Adding a second layer can cancel the warranty on many shingle brands. Skipping a tear-off also misses the chance to spot underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll need to choose roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While acknowledged for lifespan and durability, the expense frightens off many New Berlin homeowners.
Most choose asphalt shingles, the most typical roof covering. Its color and style choices 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 right 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 converse with roofing professionals when making a decision.
Scrutinize the warranty provided 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 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 typically 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.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a New Berlin roofing contractor. Red flags on a company’s warranty could be a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or perhaps no written warranty at all. Always ask about warranty when vetting possible vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, thoroughly review all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties correctly and maintain records. Finally, examine your roof regularly. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, highly unwelcome message!
After likely weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof replacement usually takes only one or two days. Workers take off old shingles. If dubious roof decking is discovered, 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 improve attic ventilation. Pipe boots prevent leaks around protruding pipes. Drip edges aid water flow off a roof.
A New Berlin 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 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 installation in New Berlin 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!