
For quite a few Okauchee homeowners, Mother Nature provides notice that a new roof is required.
A strong storm blows through … and the signs show up. 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 broken down. The deterioration will likely only accelerate, leaving everything it protects open to wind, rain and snow.
Perhaps you could restore the roof yourself - if you’re fearless of heights, able to keep your balance at varied angles, and have the right tools and know-how. Most homeowners, though, leave the job to a professional roofing company.
Choosing a roofer in Okauchee takes work. It’s a crowded field. Personal referrals – good and bad – are highly valuable. So is taking the time to delve into a contractor’s longevity and track record.
RNB Design Group has offered high-quality roof replacement services in Okauchee 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 satisfied customers.
Watch out for roofing companies who offer a “too good to be true” price. 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 about 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 advisable. Adding a second layer can cancel the warranty on many shingle brands. Declining a tear-off also passes on the opportunity to detect underlying issues with roof boards, flashing and other structural elements.
You’ll have to select roofing material. Metal roofs have grown in popularity in recent years. While acknowledged for lifespan and durability, the expense frightens off many Okauchee homeowners.
Most buy asphalt shingles, the most common roof covering. Its color and style options have grown 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 the best 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 advisable to visit manufacturers’ websites, check online reviews and ratings, and consult 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 covers the situation? Is it the manufacturer’s warranty, which covers 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 disregard coverage for natural disasters, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
Here again, buyer beware about hiring a Okauchee roofing provider. Red flags on a provider’s warranty might be 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, thoroughly scrutinize all warranties before signing anything. Register warranties correctly and hold onto records. Finally, inspect your roof frequently. Don’t make Mother Nature deliver a surprising, highly unwelcome message!

After maybe weeks, if not months, of research and vetting, a roof installation usually takes only one or two days. Workers take off 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 roof installation typically costs $20,000 to $40,000. The cost 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 installation in Okauchee 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!
