Contractor Insights: Randy Miller, Allrite Home and Remodeling

By DaVinci Roofscapes.  

Get answers to your roofing questions from an experienced roofer. 

If you had five minutes with a top roofer, what key questions would you ask him? We’ve taken care of that for you. In this “Contractor Insights” feature we’re bringing you both the questions and answers that every homeowner should know when thinking of a reroofing project. Randy Miller, owner of Allrite Home and Remodeling out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is here to share his expertise. 

Q: What are the top three things homeowners should ask a roofer about when looking for a replacement roof? 

A: Start by finding out if roofing is a main function of the company, or if it’s more like an added skill. If it’s not the main skill set of the contractor, you could possibly be getting little more than a handyman, and that’s not good. Next, ask for an evaluation of the current condition of the wood on your roof before signing a contract. This will help minimize unexpected surprises from high expenses related to exposed rotten or moldy wood. You want to know what you’re getting into. The third thing would be to ask about the company’s warranties for installation. 

Q: Why should homeowners seriously consider composite roofing when looking for a roof? 

A: In my opinion, the styles, aesthetics and longevity of composite shingles are important to consider. A great example is a roof we replaced on a Frank Lloyd Wright home. They needed a classic look. We used a cedar shake composite shingle. We actually saw the original blueprint from Wright’s home that showed a cedar shake. We were able to work with the composite manufacturer to replicate the exact look as it was originally intended by this famous architect years before. 

Q: What are your best “homeowner survival tips” for getting through a roofing installation? 

A: First, communicate with your roofer. If you have plants, trees or furniture that is important to you, discuss this beforehand with the contractor. They’ll come up with a way to protect them. Second, remember there is a lot of “moving weight” on the roof while it’s being replaced. A best practice would be to remove or protect any valuables in the home or on the walls during the time of the roofing project. And third, with an old shingle roof removal, there may be gaps between roof boards. Debris could potentially cause damage or even leave a bit of a mess in the attic. Be ready to “go with the flow” when it comes to noise, timeframe challenges and clean up. 

Q: If there’s storm damage involved to a roof, what tips do you have for a homeowner working with an insurance adjuster? 

A: As a homeowner, make sure that you are involved directly with the adjuster. Remember that both the contractor and the insurance company are working to make you “whole” again. However, they may have different ideas of what that means. You can (and should) request that all emails include copies to you, the homeowner, and that all phone calls and meetings include you. This will help avoid misunderstandings. 

Q: Why has your company chosen to recommend DaVinci composite roofing to your customers? 

A: We’ve chosen to use DaVinci shingles for quite a long time because of their quality, beautiful styles and how their roofing truly enhances the look of a home. In addition, their color selection is amazing and authentic. We’ve also been impressed with their customer service. The team is always there for us to handle any issues or needs. 

Have a question? AskARoofer. 

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