For quite a few Oconomowoc homeowners, Mother Nature delivers notice that a new roof is needed.
A lively storm blows through … and the signs show up. A few shingles in the yard. A water mark on a ceiling. Shingle granules piled up in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has broken down. The breakdown will likely only accelerate, leaving everything it protects open 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, hire a professional roofing provider.
Choosing a roofer in Oconomowoc takes research. It’s a crowded market. Personal referrals – good and bad – are highly valuable. So is taking the time to look into a provider’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has offered top-quality roof replacement services in Oconomowoc 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 dangle a “too good to be true” deal. They might leave town the moment as your payment clears. Got an issue later with your roof? You’re on your own.
The first question you might have regarding 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 advisable. Adding a second layer can void the warranty on many shingle brands. Passing on a tear-off also passes on 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 scares off many Oconomowoc homeowners.
Most buy asphalt shingles, the most typical roof covering. Its color and style choices have grown 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 right for you?
The answer depends on your preferred aesthetics and, of course, budget. Like so many other home products, you usually get what you pay for. It’s smart to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and check with roofing professionals when making a decision.
Consider 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 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 bought. The fine print might exclude coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a Oconomowoc roofing contractor. 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 vetting potential 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 regularly. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, highly 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 deteriorated 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 Oconomowoc roof installation 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 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 replacement in Oconomowoc 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 ringing about your making the right choice!