Most homeowners insurance policies require storm damage claims to be filed within one to two years of the event, though timelines vary by insurer and state. Filing promptly is always best — delays can give insurers grounds to dispute whether damage is storm-related or due to neglect.

Having a roofing professional present during the adjuster's inspection helps ensure storm damage isn't overlooked or undervalued. A contractor can point out hail hits, wind-lifted edges, and flashing damage that adjusters may miss, helping you receive a more accurate claim settlement from the start.

Age, damage extent, and shingle condition are the key factors. Roofs under 15 years old with isolated damage are usually good repair candidates. If shingles are curling, granules are washing out consistently, or damage is widespread across multiple slopes, a full replacement is typically the more cost-effective long-term decision.

Michigan's climate cycles through freeze-thaw expansion, lake-effect snow loads, spring hail, and summer heat — all within the same year. That constant material stress accelerates shingle granule loss, degrades flashing seals, and creates ice dams along eaves that can force water beneath the roofline.

TPO is a white reflective membrane that reduces cooling costs, making it popular for energy-conscious commercial buildings. EPDM is a dark rubber membrane known for durability and flexibility in cold climates. The right choice depends on building use, roof slope, and your energy efficiency priorities.

A complete roofing system — like those from Owens Corning — combines shingles, underlayment, starter strips, ridge cap, and ventilation components engineered to work together. Using a matched system improves weather resistance and can qualify the installation for stronger manufacturer warranty coverage than shingles alone.

If siding or gutters show storm damage at the same time as the roof, bundling the work is smart — it may be covered under the same insurance claim and reduces the disruption of multiple project visits. Replacing siding independently later can also be harder to color-match once weathering sets in.

Yes. Insufficient attic insulation allows heat to escape through the roof deck in winter, melting snow unevenly and forming ice dams along the eaves. Those dams trap meltwater that can seep under shingles and into the home. Proper insulation protects both your energy bills and the roof structure above.

Check attic spaces after heavy rain for daylight, moisture stains, or musty odors. Outside, look for missing or cracked shingles, exposed nail heads, and sagging sections. Granule buildup in gutters is an early warning that shingles are wearing down and the roof is approaching the end of its service life.

Both are industry-leading brands offering multi-layer laminate shingles with strong impact and wind ratings. CertainTeed Landmark and Owens Corning systems each offer wide color selections and tiered warranty programs. The best choice often comes down to color availability, warranty tier preferred, and which system best suits the home's profile.