Ultimate Roof Replacement Guide

Ready to replace your roof but not sure where to start? Our Ultimate Guide covers costs, timelines, insurance tips, and when to repair or replace everything you need to protect your home and budget.

How much does it cost to replace a roof?

• National average: $9,500–$9,518, with most homeowners spending between ~$5,900 and $13,200
• Per square foot (asphalt shingles): $3–$6, depending on tear-off complexity
• For a 1,700 ft² roof: Typically $6,000–$9,000
• By quality:
  • Entry-level 3-tab shingles: ~$4/sq ft
  • Architectural/dimensional shingles: ~$5.86/sq ft
  • Premium/luxury shingles: ~$8.50/sq ft

             Expect $3–8 per sq ft, or $6K–$15K total for most homes. Don’t settle for less.

How Long Does It Take to Replace a Roof?

• Typical timeframe: 1–3 days for tear-off and installation on standard asphalt roofs
• Timeline breakdown:
  1. Inspection & Quote: 1–3 days
  2. Permits & Materials: 3–7 days .
  3. Tear-off: ½–1 day
  4. Deck Prep: 1 day
  5. Shingle Installation: 1–2 days
  6. Cleanup & Final Inspection: same or next day.
     
• Variables: Complex roof lines, permit lags, severe weather can stretch timelines to 4–7 days.

             From meet to finish in under a week choose Pro Craft for punctual scheduling.

How to Get Insurance to Pay for Roof Replacement

Getting insurance to cover your roof replacement takes strategy, timing, and documentation. Here’s the definitive 8‑step playbook:

1. Know What Your Policy Covers

• Most standard homeowners policies cover sudden events: windstorms, hail, fire, falling objects, lightning, ice/snow weight, even aircraft impact
  
• Damage from neglect, wear-and-tear, poor maintenance, clogged gutters, or mildew is not covered
• Policies may cap replacement-cost for older roofs, often maxing at 20–25 years; older roofs only get actual cash value (ACV)

2. Keep Your Roof in Good Shape

• Regular maintenance (seasonal inspections, clearing debris, trimming overhanging branches) helps prevent denial by insurers claiming neglect
• Keep documentation receipts, inspection reports, and dated photos to support regular upkeep.

3. Document Storm Damage Immediately

• After severe weather, photograph and video from all angles: hail impacts, lifted shingles, dents, debris, attic/cellar water stains 
• Note date, time, weather conditions, and cross-reference local weather data or reports .

4. Hire a Trusted Roofer for Independent Inspection

• A licensed roofer (like Pro Craft) meets the adjuster on-site, documenting the damage and providing a detailed contractor’s report .
  
• Avoid door-to-door storm chasers—they may push unnecessary repairs or abandon the job

5. File Promptly and Follow Up

• Most states require claims within 30–60 days post-damage. Delayed filings are often denied
• Provide your insurer with original photos, damage report, weather documentation, and quote.

6. Be Present During Adjuster Inspection

• Accompany the adjuster to ensure no damage is overlooked. Point out all affected areas outside, attic, ceiling, gutters .
• Present your roofer’s written estimate during this inspection.

7. Negotiate Smartly

• Insurance estimates often undervalue replacement. Counter with your roofer’s detailed bids
• Ask for recoverable depreciation (“holdback”) you’ll get the full RCV once job is done 

8. Use a Public Adjuster if Needed

• If the insurer undervalues damage or denies your claim, a public adjuster can help interpret policy terms, negotiate effectively, and ensure full compensation
• They may charge ~10–20%, but reddit users note:
  “It’s a long, arduous process… Hiring a PA … can end up saving you a lot of time and a whole bunch of headaches.” 

Pro Craft’s Role in Insurance Support

• Damage Documentation: Our inspectors capture photos, drone footage, weather context, and compile a comprehensive contractor’s report.
• Insurance Liaison: We guide you through filing steps, coordinate with adjusters, and advocate for proper evaluation.
• Depreciation Strategy: We help secure RCV and recoverable depreciation maximizing your payout and covering your deductible.
  Public Adjuster Network: If complex, we connect you with licensed adjusters to champion your claim.

                With Pro Craft, you don’t just replace, you capitalize on storm coverage.

 How Often Should a Roof Be Replaced?

• 3‑tab Asphalt shingles: 15–20 years.
• Dimensional/architectural shingles: 25–30 years. 
• Premium materials (metal, tile, slate) can last 40–100+ years
• Harsh climates, poor ventilation, or neglect can shorten these lifespans.

                 Asphalt lasts 15–30 years—plan lifecycle replacements accordingly.

 Hail Damage: When Repair Isn’t Enough

• Hailstones ≥1″ often trigger full replacement rather than patching
• Repairing small areas ranges from $375–$7,500; full storm replacements average $12,400 but can reach $22,000 .

                         If hail hits like a golf ball—go full-scale replacement.

 Repair vs Replace: What You Should Do

• Roof Repair is fine for isolated issues, missing shingles or minor leaks.
• Replace Replace when:
  • Over 30% of the roof is affected.
  • Structural elements or decking are compromised.
  • Roof is nearing or has exceeded expected lifespan 

                                  Spot fix? Go local. Widespread damage? Replace it all.

Whom To Choose

There are many local players but one of the most trusted company in Toledo,OH is Pro Craft Home Products. With 30+ years of experience, they’ve built a reputation as one of Toledo’s most trusted roofing companies. with skill, care, and results that last and with many attributes such as;

Transparent Quotes

Real-time materials, local labor & permitting—no upsells, just accurate pricing.

Fast & Dependable Installations

Asphalt jobs done in 1–3 days; complex builds in 4–7 days. On-time, clean finish.

Insurance Claim Expertise

From damage docs and adjuster meetings to recoverable depreciation and full RCV payouts we manage it all.

Longevity You Can Trust

Strategic shingle selection extends roof life—resulting in fewer replacements, better warranties, and long-term savings.

Craftsmanship Guarantee

With rigorous nail counts, flashing integrity, and full inspection follow-through, finishing with spotless cleanup.

 Quick-View Summary

Final Thoughts

Empower yourself with these insights and partner with Pro Craft Home Products for a seamless, well-documented, and stress-free roof replacement. We make sure you’re covered, from shingles to settlement.