
For a multitude of North Lake homeowners, Mother Nature provides notice that a new roof is needed.
A powerful storm blows through … and the signs appear. A smattering of shingles in the yard. A water mark on a ceiling. Shingle granules accumulated in gutters, or at the end of downspouts.
The roof has deteriorated. The breakdown will likely only accelerate, leaving all it covers susceptible to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re unafraid of heights, able to keep your balance at varied angles, and have the pertinent tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, bring in a professional roofing installer.
Finding a roofer in North Lake takes work. It’s a crowded field. 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 provided top-quality roof replacement services in North Lake and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its veteran local roofers have encountered every situation (and repair) conceivable. Trust your roof replacement to RNB Design Group, knowing it’s backed by the best roofers and nearly three decades of satisfied customers.
Beware of roofing companies who dangle a “too good to be true” deal. They might leave town the moment 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 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. Passing on a tear-off also passes on the chance to identify underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll need to select roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While known for lifespan and durability, the expense frightens off many North Lake homeowners.
Most opt for asphalt shingles, the most typical roof covering. Its color and style options 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 the best for you?
The answer depends on your desired aesthetics and, of course, budget. Like so many other home products, you typically get what you pay for. It’s wise to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and converse 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 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 addresses 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 omit coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Once again, buyer beware about hiring a North Lake roofing company. Red flags on a company’s warranty might be a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or maybe no written warranty at all. Always inquire about warranty when vetting potential vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, carefully scrutinize all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties correctly and hold onto records. Finally, examine your roof regularly. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, very unwelcome message!

After maybe weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof installation usually takes only one or two days. Workers remove old shingles. If problematic 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 North Lake roof replacement 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 sizable 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 replacement in North Lake 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 going off about your making the right choice!
