How Hiring A Roofing Contractor Brings You 7 Great Benefits

Allstate Exteriors • January 24, 2022

These days, shunning expertise is in vogue, whether talking politics or personal health. We applaud independence, but the University of Google isn’t a real thing, and neither is do-it-yourself roofing. When you hire a roofing contractor to take care of your Central Ohio home, you reap many benefits. 

Why Hire a Roofing Contractor? 

You may be tempted to do your own roofing work. Suppose you notice a roof leak. Simple, right? Get up there, find the leak, and patch it! One, maybe three…eleven visits to the big-box home improvement store, a few shingles, some roof cement, a small fortune in tools like a roofing hatchet, trowel, latex gloves, knee pads, and you’re done! 

Or, you are in the ER suffering from a fall from your roof. And nobody uses roofing hatchets anymore. Are you planning to invest hundreds of dollars in a pancake compressor and nail gun? Do you know the difference between water and ice shield and underlayment? How will you find the leak on your roof’s exterior? Where is your fall arrest equipment? Where is the training you need to keep your roof warranty intact? 

Perhaps now you begin to see the reasons why do-it-yourself is not a great idea

  • Safety
  • Training
  • Skills
  • Tools
  • Warranties

Your next choice is the first roofer who knocks on your door or a shady guy with a 1993 F-150 pickup truck. We strongly urge you to pass on the passerby and wish Chuck With a Truck good luck. Neither option will bring you the benefits of a genuine, licensed roofing contractor. When you hire a roofing contractor, you get experience, equipment, knowledgeable crews, and a lot more, too.

Seven Reasons

The best seven reasons we can think of for hiring a genuine roofing contractor to repair, maintain, or re-roof your Central Ohio home range from practical to emotional, but they all matter:

  1. Safety — Getting up on your own roof can be dangerous, but professional roofers know how to safely do the work, using correct fall arrest gear and techniques to protect each other from slips and falls.
  2. Warranties — Your trusted, local contractor, in business for many years, will have the experience and training from the roofing materials manufacturer to provide you the best available warranties on repairs and re-roofing work.
  3. Reliability & Expertise — Reputable, local roofing contractors won’t run off like storm chasers (“Dan With His Van”); your contractor will be available long after the project, in case a callback is needed or further work must be done.
  4. Time — A roofer can do the work faster and better than you or a handyman. Even if you think you can do the work yourself, having a contractor do the roofing work gives you back time and ensures a proper result (roofers answer many calls for fixing the homeowner’s repair job).
  5. Cost-Effectiveness — Trusting a local roofer saves money in the long run because you do not have access to the discounts professionals reap on materials. You will not be paying twice for the same work. The professional work will last far longer than the handyman’s job or your own work.
  6. Tools — Forget about four visits to the hardware store; forget about major investments in exotic equipment; your local, reliable roofer comes equipped with all the right tools and supplies to perform all types of roofing work expertly.
  7. Peace of mind — Yes, we saved the best for last! Knowing the quality of the repair or re-roof is professional, your roof will protect your home and possessions for many years to come. Following up with regular inspections by the same roofer ensures your roof is in the best condition possible and stays that way.

How To Hire

Moving into a new home, nobody handed you the Home Instruction Manual. Such a thing, like YouTube University, does not exist. You may have no idea how to go about hiring a dependable, local roofing contractor. Is your work too small for a contractor to bother with? Is your house in the contractor’s service area? What do you say when you call? 

Relax. Most homeowners replace their roofs only once while they live in their houses. You are not expected to be an expert in locating and hiring a roofer! Here’s what to do:

  1. Ask others for suggestions on roofers.
  2. Contact three roofers; describe your roofing needs (“I think I have a roof leak,” “I know I need a new roof.”).
  3. Arrange an appointment with a representative of each roofer, requesting a written estimate.
  4. Compare the estimates and look for “Scope of Work” with detailed descriptions of materials, work, and payments.
  5. Settle on a local, licensed, trustworthy roofing contractor.

It really can be that easy! Please contact us today at Allstate Exteriors & Restoration in Central Ohio. We are ready to provide you with superior roofing service for all your roofing needs.

August 27, 2025
Your roof is more than just shingles nailed to wood—it’s your home’s first line of defense and one of the biggest factors in curb appeal. With so many shingle brands out there, it can feel overwhelming trying to figure out which one truly delivers. At Allstate Exteriors, we’ve worked with them all, and that’s why we confidently stand behind Owens Corning shingles. They aren’t just another option on the shelf—they’re the gold standard in roofing. Let’s break down what makes Owens Corning stand out from the rest. Built Strong Where It Matters Most Not all shingles are created equal. While other brands may look similar at first glance, the difference is in the details. Owens Corning shingles feature SureNail® Technology, a one-of-a-kind reinforced strip in the nailing zone that locks each shingle into place. Think of it as a seatbelt for your roof—it holds tight when the wind tries to rip it loose. With wind ratings up to 130 mph, you can rest easy knowing your roof is built to handle even the nastiest storms Mother Nature can throw your way. Beauty That Lasts A roof shouldn’t just protect your home—it should make it shine. Owens Corning shingles use TruDefinition® Color Technology, which delivers bold, vibrant, dimensional colors that don’t fade into the background. Whether you want a classic look or something more modern and eye-catching, there’s a style to fit your home perfectly. Many competing brands simply can’t match this level of color depth and long-lasting vibrancy. A Warranty You Can Actually Trust We’ve seen it time and time again—other shingles come with warranties that sound good, but when push comes to shove, the fine print leaves homeowners unprotected. Owens Corning does things differently. Their warranties are some of the most comprehensive in the industry, and when you work with a Platinum Preferred Contractor like Allstate Exteriors, you get even greater coverage. That means your roof isn’t just covered for materials—it’s covered for the workmanship too. That’s real peace of mind. More Than Shingles: A Complete Roofing System Here’s another reason Owens Corning rises above the rest: they don’t just sell shingles. They’ve engineered the Total Protection Roofing System®—a full suite of products designed to work together seamlessly. From the underlayment that keeps moisture out to the ventilation that lets your home breathe, every piece is designed to maximize performance. Other brands often take a piecemeal approach, which can leave your roof vulnerable. Long-Term Value That Pays for Itself We understand that price is always a factor when choosing shingles. While some competitor products may seem less expensive upfront, they often cost homeowners more down the road due to repairs, replacements, and shorter lifespans. Owens Corning shingles are built to last and backed by strong warranties, meaning you’ll save money—and stress—in the long run. Investing in Owens Corning is really investing in your home’s future. Why We Recommend Owens Corning Every Time At Allstate Exteriors, our mission is to protect your home like it’s our own. That’s why we choose Owens Corning. Their innovation, beauty, strength, and warranty protection give our customers something no other shingle brand can match: confidence. When you choose Allstate Exteriors, you’re choosing: ✅ Superior Owens Corning products ✅ Professional installation from a Platinum Preferred Contractor ✅ A roof that’s built to look great and last for decades Don’t Settle for “Any Other Shingle” Your home deserves the best—and with Owens Corning shingles installed by Allstate Exteriors, that’s exactly what you’ll get. Contact us today for a free consultation and experience the Owens Corning difference for yourself.
August 27, 2025
Replacing your roof is one of the biggest home improvement projects you’ll take on as a homeowner. Whether you’re dealing with storm damage, aging shingles, or simply upgrading to improve your home’s value, knowing what to expect can make the process smoother and less stressful. If you live in Orlando, where heavy rains, hurricanes, and sun exposure take a toll on roofs, being prepared is especially important. Step 1: Roof Inspection & Estimate Every roof replacement begins with a thorough inspection. A professional roofing contractor will: Check for leaks, water stains, and structural issues Assess the condition of shingles, underlayment, and decking Look for storm damage, especially from hail and high winds After the inspection, you’ll receive a written estimate outlining the scope of work, materials, and pricing. Make sure your contractor explains the different options available—whether that’s asphalt shingles, tile, or energy-efficient roofing systems designed for Florida’s climate. Step 2: Choosing Materials In Orlando, roofing materials need to hold up against intense UV rays, humidity, and hurricane-force winds. Popular options include: Architectural Asphalt Shingles – Affordable, durable, and stylish Tile Roofing – Long-lasting and ideal for Florida homes Metal Roofing – Energy-efficient and highly wind-resistant Your contractor will help you select the right color, style, and material to complement your home while meeting local building codes and HOA requirements. Step 3: Preparing Your Home Before the crew arrives, you’ll want to prepare your property: Move vehicles out of the driveway Protect outdoor furniture, grills, or landscaping Clear fragile items from walls or shelves inside (roof work causes vibrations) A professional contractor will also obtain the necessary permits and follow all Orlando building regulations. Step 4: Roof Removal & Installation On installation day, the old roofing materials will be removed and hauled away. The crew will inspect the decking underneath, replacing any rotted or weakened areas. Then, they’ll install underlayment, flashing, and your new roofing material layer by layer to ensure maximum protection. The average roof replacement in Orlando takes 1–3 days, depending on the size of the roof and weather conditions. Step 5: Clean-Up & Final Inspection A quality roofing company won’t leave a mess behind. They’ll use magnetic sweepers to collect nails and debris and walk you through a final inspection to make sure everything meets expectations. Many Orlando homeowners are also offered workmanship warranties and product warranties for peace of mind. Final Thoughts A roof replacement may feel overwhelming, but with the right contractor, it can be a smooth and stress-free experience. If you’re an Orlando homeowner, choosing a company that understands Florida’s climate and building codes is key. At Allstate Exteriors, we’re proud to be Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractors, which means we use industry-leading materials and back our work with trusted warranties. Whether you need a full replacement or just want to explore your options, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. 👉 Ready to schedule your free roof inspection in Orlando?
August 25, 2025
When most homeowners think about boosting the value of their home, they picture trendy kitchen remodels, sparkling new bathrooms, or freshly landscaped yards. While those upgrades are important, there’s one investment that often gets overlooked—yet it has a massive impact on your home’s curb appeal, resale price, and buyer confidence: your roof. At Allstate Exteriors, we’ve seen firsthand how a new roof can transform a property. It’s not just about shingles and nails—it’s about creating peace of mind, protecting your investment, and unlocking the hidden value of your home. 1. First Impressions Start at the Curb The very first thing people notice about your home isn’t your kitchen countertops or living room décor—it’s the exterior. And your roof makes up nearly 40% of what buyers and neighbors see. A roof with missing shingles, visible stains, or sagging lines doesn’t just look tired—it sends a message that the home may not be well maintained. On the other hand, a freshly installed roof immediately elevates your home’s curb appeal. It frames your siding, accents your landscaping, and makes the entire property look newer and more cared for. When buyers fall in love before they even step inside, you’re already ahead. 2. Buyers Want Peace of Mind For most people, buying a home is the biggest financial decision they’ll ever make. And nothing makes them more nervous than a roof that looks old or questionable. Why? Because it represents one of the largest potential expenses a homeowner can face. A brand-new roof takes that fear off the table. It reassures buyers that the home is move-in ready, free from leaks, and secure for years to come. That peace of mind often leads to faster offers, stronger bids, and smoother closings. 3. Energy Efficiency = Everyday Savings Today’s buyers are smarter than ever, and energy efficiency is top of mind. Modern roofing systems, like Owens Corning Duration shingles , are designed with technology that reflects heat, improves insulation, and lowers energy bills. This means homeowners save money every month—and buyers know it. Highlighting your home’s energy-efficient roof could be the edge that helps you stand out in a crowded market. 4. Warranties Build Buyer Confidence A roof isn’t just an upgrade—it’s an investment. And with a transferable warranty, that investment keeps paying dividends, even when you sell your home. Buyers love knowing that their new purchase is still covered years down the road. At Allstate Exteriors, our Platinum Preferred status with Owens Corning means we can offer some of the strongest warranties in the industry. That added protection is a powerful selling point that sets your home apart from the competition. 5. The ROI Is Better Than You Think According to national studies, a new roof can return 60–70% of its cost in increased home value. But the true return often goes beyond percentages. A strong roof helps you avoid price reductions after inspections, attracts more buyers, and prevents drawn-out negotiations. In short, a new roof isn’t just an expense—it’s an investment that pays you back in value, security, and peace of mind. The Bottom Line Your roof is more than shingles and flashing—it’s the crown of your home, the structure that ties everything together, and one of the biggest factors in how your property is perceived. Whether you’re planning to sell soon or simply want to protect your investment, upgrading your roof is one of the smartest moves you can make. At Allstate Exteriors, we don’t just replace roofs —we help homeowners unlock the true potential of their homes. Our expert team will guide you through color choices, materials, warranties, and financing options to ensure your new roof is both beautiful and built to last. Schedule Your Free Estimate!
August 22, 2025
When it comes to choosing a contractor for your roof, siding, or gutters, homeowners aren’t just looking for a crew with hammers and nails — they’re looking for a company they can trust with their home. That’s why at Allstate Exteriors, one of the things we’re most proud of is our A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). It’s not just a letter grade. An A+ BBB rating is the gold standard in business credibility. It tells homeowners that we’ve built a reputation for doing the right thing, following through on our promises, and putting our customers first. But here’s the real question: what does it actually take to earn — and keep — that A+? What an A+ BBB Rating Really Means The Better Business Bureau exists to give homeowners peace of mind when they’re hiring someone for an important project. An A+ rating means the BBB recognizes us as a business that’s reliable, ethical, and committed to customer satisfaction. But it’s not just about avoiding complaints. It’s about proving, day after day, that we put integrity, accountability, and care at the center of everything we do. How We Earned Our A+ Rating Getting an A+ from the BBB doesn’t happen overnight. It comes from years of consistency, transparency, and hard work. Here’s what it takes: 1. Honesty From the Very Beginning We believe in being upfront. No gimmicks, no “too-good-to-be-true” quotes. When we meet with a homeowner, we take the time to explain the process, break down the costs, and answer every question honestly. 2. Taking Care of Issues the Right Way Let’s face it: no business is perfect. What matters most is how problems are handled when they pop up. The BBB looks closely at whether businesses respond fairly to customer concerns. For us, that means if something isn’t right, we fix it — quickly, fairly, and respectfully. 3. Putting People Before Projects At Allstate Exteriors, we don’t see a roof, siding, or gutters — we see the family inside the home. That perspective changes everything. Our team goes out of their way to make the process smooth and stress-free, because we know home improvement can feel overwhelming. 4. Doing Things by the Book (and Then Some) Another big factor in an A+ rating is compliance. We don’t cut corners, and we don’t “just get by.” Every roof, every siding project, every gutter installation is done according to manufacturer guidelines, building codes, and best practices. That protects your home, your warranty, and your investment. 5. Years of Proven Commitment An A+ isn’t just about one good project — it’s about consistency over time. With years of experience serving homeowners in Ohio and Florida, we’ve built a reputation that shows we’ll be here tomorrow, next year, and ten years down the road. Why It Matters to You An A+ BBB rating means when you hire us, you’re working with a company that has a proven record of: Standing behind our work. Treating homeowners with respect. Following through on our promises. Putting integrity above shortcuts. In other words, you don’t have to wonder if you picked the right contractor — you’ll know it. Earning an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau isn’t easy. And that’s exactly why it means so much. It’s a reflection of our core values: care about others, always do the right thing, be a team player, and strive to be our personal best. At Allstate Exteriors, we don’t see our A+ as just a rating. We see it as a responsibility — to every homeowner who trusts us with their biggest investment. Schedule Your Free Estimate!
August 20, 2025
There’s nothing quite like living in Florida. From the year-round sunshine to the beautiful beaches, the lifestyle is second to none. But as every Floridian knows, paradise comes with a price: hurricane season. From June through November, powerful winds and pounding rain put your home to the test. And when it comes to protecting your biggest investment, your roof is your first and most important defense. The wrong roof can leave you with leaks, damage, and costly repairs. The right roof, however, can give you peace of mind — even when the weather outside looks like chaos. So, which roofing materials stand up best to Florida’s extreme climate? Let’s take a closer look at the top hurricane-resistant options and what makes them ideal for homes in the Sunshine State. Metal Roofing: Florida’s Storm Warrior When it comes to strength, metal roofing is hard to beat. Unlike standard shingles that can peel away in strong winds, metal panels interlock tightly, creating a nearly impenetrable shield. Many are rated to withstand winds of 140–160 mph — exactly what you want when a Category 4 hurricane is bearing down. But it’s not just wind resistance that makes metal roofing a Florida favorite. Metal reflects heat from the sun, helping keep your home cooler and lowering those summer electric bills (a big deal when your A/C is running non-stop). Plus, metal roofs can last 40 to 70 years with proper maintenance, which means most homeowners will never have to replace it again. Best for: Homeowners looking for maximum protection and long-term value. Concrete & Clay Tile: Heavyweight Protection Drive through a Florida neighborhood and you’ll see plenty of tile roofs — and for good reason. Concrete and clay tiles are heavy, which means they’re much harder for hurricane-force winds to lift. That extra weight is a big advantage during storm season. Tiles are also naturally resistant to fire, rot, and insects, all common issues in Florida’s hot, humid climate. When installed correctly with strong underlayment, tile roofs can last 50 years or more, giving you beauty and durability in one package. The tradeoff? Tiles can be brittle if hit by large hail or flying debris. That’s why installation quality matters. A poorly installed tile roof won’t hold up, but one installed to code by a professional roofer is a storm-proof powerhouse. Best for: Homeowners who want a balance of curb appeal and storm resistance. Architectural Asphalt Shingles: Affordable but Tough Not ready to commit to tile or metal? Architectural asphalt shingles have come a long way in recent years. Today, manufacturers produce shingles that are specially designed to resist high winds — some rated for up to 130+ mph. They’re more affordable than tile or metal and available in tons of colors and styles, making them a great choice if you want storm protection without breaking the bank. While they won’t last as long as metal or tile, a properly installed architectural shingle roof can give you 20–30 years of solid protection in Florida’s climate. Best for: Homeowners balancing budget with reliable storm resistance. Flat Roof Systems: Coastal & Modern Homes Florida also has many flat and low-slope roofs, especially in coastal communities and modern-style homes. These roofs require different systems than pitched roofs. The most durable options include: TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin): Highly reflective, energy-efficient, and resistant to UV damage. Modified Bitumen: Flexible and tough, able to handle both heat and storms. EPDM Rubber Roofing: Long-lasting and excellent at keeping water out. Flat roof systems don’t always get as much attention, but when installed correctly, they can be just as hurricane-resistant as other roofing types. Extra Features That Make a Big Difference Roofing material is only part of the equation. Florida homeowners should also consider: Hurricane Straps & Fasteners: Keep roofing materials secured under extreme wind uplift. Waterproof Underlayment: Creates a backup barrier to keep wind-driven rain out. Proper Ventilation: Helps reduce pressure buildup inside your attic during storms. These upgrades may not be visible from the outside, but they make all the difference when the weather turns ugly. The Bottom Line: Choose a Roof That Can Weather the Storm In Florida, your roof isn’t just about looks — it’s about survival. Every year, homeowners face the same question: Will my roof hold up if a major storm hits? Choosing the right roofing material now means fewer worries, fewer repairs, and far less stress when hurricane season rolls around. ✅ Metal for unmatched strength and efficiency. ✅ Tile for beauty and heavyweight protection. ✅ Architectural shingles for affordability and resilience. ✅ Flat roof systems for coastal and modern homes. Schedule Your Free Estimate!
August 18, 2025
When it comes time to replace your roof , you want answers fast — especially about price. That’s why so many online tools and contractors advertise quick satellite roof estimates. They sound convenient: type in your address, and get an instant number without anyone ever stepping foot on your property. But here’s the truth: satellite estimates are rarely accurate. In fact, relying on them can lead to bigger headaches and more money spent in the long run. At Allstate Exteriors, we’ve seen it time and time again — homeowners who trusted a satellite number end up frustrated when the final cost is much higher. Here’s why that happens and why an in-person inspection is always the smarter choice. 1. Satellites Can’t See What’s Under the Shingles Satellite tools only measure the surface area of your roof. What they cannot see are the hidden details that make or break your project: Rotten or soft decking Damaged soffits and fascia Rusted nails and flashing Ventilation issues or mold Storm damage that isn’t visible from above These issues are uncovered only when a trained roofer gets on the roof and into the attic. Ignoring them doesn’t save you money — it sets you up for costly surprises later. 2. Pitch and Complexity Are Often Measured Wrong Satellite programs calculate pitch and slope based on averages. But if the system misreads your pitch, the numbers will be off. That means you could be quoted for fewer shingles, less labor, or even the wrong underlayment. By the time the contractor corrects it mid-project, your final bill can be thousands higher than the original “estimate.” 3. Materials and Labor Aren’t One-Size-Fits-All Every roof is unique. Maybe your home needs upgraded ice and water shield, special flashing around chimneys, or additional ventilation to meet today’s codes. Satellite tools don’t account for these custom needs — and they certainly don’t calculate for rising material costs that fluctuate monthly. Only a professional, on-site inspection can give you an estimate that reflects your actual roof. 4. You End Up Paying More in the End While a quick satellite quote may look attractive up front, homeowners usually end up paying more because: Additional work wasn’t included in the “instant” estimate. Change orders pile up once the project starts. You risk improper installation if the contractor never fully inspected the roof beforehand. In the end, the cheapest, fastest estimate is rarely the cheapest project . The Smarter Choice: A Professional, On-Site Inspection At Allstate Exteriors, we believe homeowners deserve accurate, honest estimates the first time. That’s why we always send a trained roofing professional to inspect your home. During an on-site visit, we: Check every layer of your roofing system, not just the shingles. Assess ventilation, decking, gutters, and siding connections. Identify potential issues before they become expensive problems. Provide a detailed, transparent estimate with no hidden costs. That way, you know exactly what to expect before work begins — no surprises, no “add-ons,” no last-minute sticker shock. Final Thoughts Satellite roof estimates may sound convenient, but in reality, they can never replace the accuracy of an in-person inspection. When you choose a contractor who takes the time to inspect your home, you’re not just getting a number — you’re getting peace of mind that the job will be done right, on budget, and built to last. At Allstate Exteriors, we don’t cut corners with technology gimmicks. We build trust the old-fashioned way: by showing up, inspecting thoroughly, and giving you the truth about your home. Schedule a free estimate!