
For a multitude of Okauchee Lake homeowners, Mother Nature provides notice that a new roof is required.
A lively storm blows through … and the signs appear. A smattering of 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 deteriorated. The breakdown will likely only hasten, leaving all it protects vulnerable to wind, rain and snow.
Maybe you could replace the roof yourself - if you’re unafraid of heights, able to maintain balance at varied angles, and have the correct tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, reach out to a professional roofing company.
Deciding on a roofer in Okauchee Lake takes research. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are a great place to start. So is taking the time to delve into a provider’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has delivered high-quality roof replacement services in Okauchee Lake and southeastern Wisconsin for more than 25 years. Its skilled local roofers have encountered every situation (and repair) imaginable. Trust your roof replacement to RNB Design Group, knowing it’s backed by the best roofers and nearly three decades of pleased customers.
Beware of roofing companies who offer a “too good to be true” package. They might skip 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 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 recommended. Adding a second layer can void the warranty on many shingle brands. Skipping a tear-off also misses the chance 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 Okauchee Lake homeowners.
Most buy asphalt shingles, the most common roof covering. Its color and style options have expanded exponentially, offering 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 desired aesthetics and, of course, budget. Like so many other home products, you often get what you pay for. It’s smart to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and converse with roofing professionals when making a decision.
Review 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 covers the situation? Is it the manufacturer’s warranty, which addresses 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 typically 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.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Okauchee Lake roofing installer. Red flags on a company’s warranty include a short warranty period, limited coverage, unclear terms … or maybe no written warranty at all. Always ask about warranty when vetting possible vendors.
What’s a homeowner to do? First, thoroughly scrutinize all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties properly and hold onto records. Finally, examine your roof consistently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, very 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 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 Okauchee Lake 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 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 replacement in Okauchee Lake 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!
