
For far too many Waukesha County homeowners, Mother Nature delivers notice that a new roof is necessary.
A powerful storm blows through … and the signs appear. A smattering of shingles in the yard. A water leak on a ceiling. Shingle granules accumulated in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has broken down. The breakdown will likely only quicken, leaving everything it covers susceptible to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could replace 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, contact a professional roofing installer.
Selecting a roofer in Waukesha County takes time. It’s a crowded market. Personal referrals – good and bad – are invaluable. 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 Waukesha County and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its skilled 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 satisfied customers.
Watch out for roofing companies who dangle a “too good to be true” price. They might leave 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 pertaining to 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 advisable. Adding another layer can cancel the warranty on many shingle brands. Skipping a tear-off also passes on the chance to detect 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 acknowledged for lifespan and durability, the expense frightens off many Waukesha County homeowners.
Most choose 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:
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 correct for you?
The answer depends on your preferred aesthetics and, of course, budget. Like so many other home products, you typically 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 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 covers the situation? 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 purchased. The fine print might omit coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a Waukesha County roofing company. Red flags on a contractor’s warranty include a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or maybe no written warranty at all. Always ask about warranty when reviewing potential vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, thoroughly peruse all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties correctly and maintain records. Finally, inspect your roof regularly. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, highly unwelcome message!

After maybe 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 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 improve attic ventilation. Pipe boots prevent leaks around protruding pipes. Drip edges aid water flow off a roof.
A Waukesha County roof installation typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The price depends on the materials involved, and size and characteristics of the roof. Either way, it’s a significant investment … making pre-project due diligence time well spent.
If a contractor 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 Waukesha County by a reputable 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!
