
For far too many Franklin homeowners, Mother Nature gives notice that a new roof is needed.
A strong storm blows through … and the signs show up. A couple shingles in the yard. A water discoloration on a ceiling. Shingle granules collected in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has broken down. The breakdown will likely only hasten, leaving everything it covers susceptible to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could restore the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to maintain balance at varied angles, and have the correct tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, hire a professional roofing contractor.
Finding a roofer in Franklin takes work. It’s a crowded market. Personal referrals – good and bad – are a great place to start. So is taking the time to delve into a company’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has provided top-quality roof replacement services in Franklin and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its experienced local roofers have encountered 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.
Watch out for roofing companies who offer a “too good to be true” deal. They might leave town as soon as as your payment clears. Got an issue later with your roof? You’re on your own.
The first question you might have pertaining to 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 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 choose roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While known for lifespan and durability, the expense frightens off many Franklin homeowners.
Most buy asphalt shingles, the most typical 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 offer 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 wise to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and check with roofing professionals when making a decision.
Peruse the warranty provided 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 addresses 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 bought. The fine print might omit coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Franklin roofing installer. 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 ask about warranty when reviewing possible vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully review all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties promptly and maintain records. Finally, examine your roof frequently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, very unwelcome message!

After potentially weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof installation usually takes only one or two days. Workers remove 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 Franklin 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 advance 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 Franklin 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!
