Roof Replacement After Storm Damage: What to Expect
When a storm hits your neighborhood, one of the first places to take a beating is your roof. High winds, heavy rain, hail, and flying debris can strip shingles, damage flashing, or even tear entire sections loose. As someone who’s been in roofing for over 20 years, I can tell you—storm damage isn’t always visible right away, but it can quickly lead to bigger problems if not addressed fast.
My name is Tim Hauser, and I’m a licensed contractor and the owner of a successful roofing company based here in Arizona. I’ve helped hundreds of homeowners repair or fully replace their roofs after storms, and I know how overwhelming it can be—especially if it’s your first time dealing with insurance or navigating quotes.
Here’s what to expect when you’re facing a roof replacement due to storm damage—and how to approach it with confidence.
Step One: Assess the Roof Damage Safely
After a storm passes, your first instinct might be to grab a ladder and check things out. But don’t. It’s best to stay on the ground and inspect from a distance. Look for things like missing shingles, dented gutters, lifted flashing, or pieces of roofing material scattered around your yard.
If you notice water stains on your ceiling or attic insulation that’s wet, that’s another red flag that your roof’s integrity has been compromised.
Call a licensed roofing professional to conduct a full inspection. We’re trained to spot issues that aren’t always visible to the untrained eye—including soft spots, hail damage, or torn underlayment that could lead to leaks later on.
Step Two: Contact Your Insurance Company
If the damage is significant, your next step should be to file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance. You’ll want to do this as soon as possible. Most insurance companies have a deadline for filing storm-related claims—usually within 12 months of the event.
Your insurer may send out an adjuster to inspect the damage, or they might ask for documentation from a roofing contractor. In my experience, having your contractor present during the adjuster’s visit helps ensure that no damage is overlooked. We know what to point out, and we can help advocate for a fair scope of repair or replacement.
Step Three: Get a Detailed Roofing Estimate
Once your claim is approved—or even while it’s in process—you should get a written estimate from a licensed roofer. A solid estimate will include:
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The full scope of work
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Roofing materials (type, brand, color)
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Cost of tear-off and disposal
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Flashing, underlayment, and ventilation components
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Warranty information
It’s also smart to get at least two estimates for comparison, but be wary of anyone offering to “waive your deductible” or pressure you into signing immediately. That’s often a red flag.
Step Four: Choose Materials That Withstand the Next Storm
If you’re replacing your roof due to a storm, think about upgrading your materials. Impact-resistant shingles, for example, can better withstand hail and flying debris in the future. I often recommend Class 4 shingles—they cost a bit more, but many insurers offer a discount for homes with these durable materials.
Also consider upgraded underlayment, ice and water shield (if you’re in a colder region), and proper attic ventilation. These features not only protect your roof but extend its lifespan and improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Step Five: Prepare for the Replacement Process
Once your roofing contractor is scheduled, you’ll want to prepare your property. Move vehicles out of the driveway, protect items in the attic from falling debris, and let your neighbors know that there will be noise for a few days.
Most full roof replacements take one to three days, depending on the size of the roof and weather conditions. A good roofing crew will tear off the old shingles, inspect the decking for damage, install new materials, and clean up thoroughly.
Ask your contractor for daily progress updates and confirm that final inspections will be completed once the job is done.
Step Six: Final Inspection and Warranty
Before you pay that final invoice, walk the property with your contractor and inspect the work. Make sure all agreed-upon materials were used, flashing and vents are sealed properly, and no debris is left behind.
You should receive a copy of your workmanship warranty from the contractor, as well as a manufacturer warranty on the materials. Don’t skip this step—it protects you down the road in case of any installation defects or product failures.
What Storm Damage Insurance Usually Covers
Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover wind, hail, and storm-related damage to your roof. That said, coverage varies depending on your provider, your policy, and the condition of your roof prior to the storm.
In general, if the damage was sudden and accidental, your policy should cover:
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Roof replacement or repair
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Water damage caused by the damaged roof
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Temporary tarping or mitigation costs
What’s not usually covered: wear and tear, mold, pre-existing damage, or neglect. That’s why annual inspections and routine maintenance are so important.
What If Insurance Doesn’t Cover It?
Not every roof qualifies for insurance coverage—especially if your policy excludes certain storm events or if the damage is ruled as pre-existing wear and tear. I’ve worked with plenty of homeowners who’ve had their claims partially covered or denied altogether. If that happens, it’s important to understand what paying out-of-pocket could look like—and how to make it manageable.
Average Cost of a Full Roof Replacement
The national average for a full roof replacement ranges from $8,000 to $15,000, depending on the size of your home, the materials you choose, and where you live. In Arizona, most asphalt shingle roofs fall somewhere between $7,500 and $12,000, but that number can go higher if your home has a steep pitch, multiple layers of old shingles, or structural repairs underneath.
Upgrading to metal, tile, or impact-resistant shingles can add another 20% to 50%, but those materials offer longer lifespans and greater protection against future storms.
Factors That Influence Cost
A few variables that affect your out-of-pocket price include:
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Roof size and slope: Larger or steeper roofs require more materials and labor.
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Material selection: Asphalt is the most affordable, while tile and metal are more expensive.
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Decking or structural repairs: If your roofer finds rot or damage beneath the shingles, you’ll need to replace sections of the decking as well.
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Tear-off costs: If your old roof has multiple layers, removing them adds time and labor.
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Permits and code upgrades: Depending on your city, there may be additional costs to bring your roof up to current building codes.
The good news is, a licensed roofer can give you a clear estimate based on an on-site inspection—and help you prioritize what matters most for your budget.
Financing and Payment Options
Replacing your roof without insurance doesn’t have to mean draining your savings. Many reputable roofing companies offer financing options that break the total into monthly payments over 12, 24, or even 60 months.
You may also qualify for:
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Home improvement loans
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HELOCs (Home Equity Lines of Credit)
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0% promotional financing plans through contractor partnerships
If your roof was damaged by a storm but insurance won’t cover it, some homeowners also explore appealing the decision or getting a second opinion from a public adjuster. I always advise clients to speak directly with their contractor—we’ve helped clients gather additional documentation that led to a reversal of claim denials.
Don’t Delay, Don’t Panic
Storm damage can be stressful, but with the right steps, you can navigate roof replacement smoothly and avoid further damage to your home. The key is to act quickly, document everything, and work with a contractor who knows how to handle storm repairs and insurance claims.
If you suspect your roof took a hit in the last storm, don’t wait for a leak to show up. Call a licensed roofer for a professional inspection and get ahead of the problem before it worsens.
I’ve walked hundreds of homeowners through this process, and I’d be happy to help you too.
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About the Author
I’m Tim Hauser, a graduate of Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management. I’ve owned and operated a successful roofing company in Arizona for over 20 years, specializing in storm damage repairs, roof replacements, and helping homeowners navigate insurance claims. As a contributor to Best Roofing Estimates, I’m here to help you protect your biggest investment—your home—with knowledge you can trust.
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