Question 1

How do I know if my roof has been damaged?

Accepted Answer

There are several telltale signs of possible roof damage. Look for cracked, warped, or missing shingles, broken flashing, and discolored interior surfaces like ceilings and walls. After a hail storm, check for shingle granules collecting in your gutters — that's a clear sign of shingle damage. Also inspect for cracked paint or peeling wallpaper on interior walls near the roofline, and check your air conditioner units, window screens, siding, and gutters for dents. If any of these are present, your roof likely sustained damage too. We offer free drone and satellite inspections with photographic proof so you can see exactly what we find — no salesperson visit required.

Question 2

When does my roof need to be replaced?

Accepted Answer

There are three main triggers for roof replacement: age (typically over 20 years), active leaks that repairs cannot fix, and significant hail or storm damage. Hail and storm damage are the #1 reason for roof replacements in the DFW area. Important note: 95% of roof leaks are actually a result of poor installations, not storm damages. That's why choosing the right installer matters more than anything else. Nearly any roof can be repaired — remember this the next time a salesperson tells you that you need a new roof. It takes a true hands-on roof installer to truthfully determine if a roof system honestly needs to be completely replaced.

Question 3

Do I need to replace my gutters after a storm?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Just because insurance approves a gutter claim doesn't mean you need new gutters. Aluminum gutters are extremely durable — they resist rust and age well even after frequent hail storms that leave them dented. Ask yourself: Are they leaking? Hanging improperly? Rusted through? If your gutters still function properly and are draining water correctly, you may be better off keeping the insurance money in your pocket rather than spending it on an unnecessary gutter replacement. A dented gutter is usually still a perfectly functional gutter.

Question 4

Why do contractors want to take over my insurance claim?

Accepted Answer

The answer is simple: MONEY. There's a reason general contractors want to take over your insurance claim — they want the profit for themselves. Many contractors use commission-based salespeople who inflate costs and pocket the difference between the insurance payout and the actual cost of work. By positioning themselves as intermediaries during insurance claims and offering to meet with your insurance adjuster, they create a psychological obligation for you to hire them. This is how you end up overpaying for a roof. Always buy directly from the installer — the person who will actually be doing the work — not a middleman or salesperson.

Question 5

How do I read and understand my insurance claim?

Accepted Answer

Four key terms every homeowner must understand: RCV (Replacement Cost Value) is the full amount the insurance company estimates to replace your roof at today's prices. Your Deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in. Depreciation is the amount insurance holds back initially based on the age and condition of your roof. ACV (Actual Cash Value) is what you receive upfront — calculated as RCV minus your deductible minus depreciation. The depreciation amount is released to you after work is completed and you submit proof of the completed repairs or replacement.

Question 6

How do I choose the right roofing contractor?

Accepted Answer

Get written estimates — never work with someone who refuses to provide one or insists on seeing your insurance papers first. Verify their labor warranty: 20+ years is excellent, while the DFW average is only 2-10 years. Research them on BBB.org and RipOffReport.com. Never pay a deposit or money down before work begins — only a scammer or a commission salesperson will require one. Most importantly, make sure they're actual hands-on roof installers, not just salespeople or general contractors who will subcontract your job to the lowest bidder.

Question 7

Should my contractor meet with my insurance company?

Accepted Answer

NO. Policyholders should handle their own insurance claims directly. When contractors insert themselves into the claims process, both the contractor and insurance company benefit — but the homeowner loses control and often overpays. Your contractor has absolutely no say over whether an insurance adjuster approves or denies your claim. Maintaining privacy and direct communication with your insurance company protects your interests as a policyholder. Get your own written estimates independently, then file your claim yourself. It's your policy, it's your money.

Question 8

What is the best shingle on the market?

Accepted Answer

We recommend Owens Corning as the best asphalt composition shingle on the market, with GAF Timberline as a strong contender. But here's what really matters — only an actual hands-on roof installer can honestly judge the quality and durability of a shingle product. Recommendations from salespeople or general contractors for inferior products typically indicate profit-driven decisions, not customer-focused ones. We back our opinion with a written 20-Year Leak-Free Labor Workmanship Warranty Guarantee. FREE Owens Corning shingle upgrades are included with every roof purchase at HonestRoof.com.

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