The Critical Components That Protect Your Home (And Why They Matter)

If you’ve been told that you can save money by putting new shingles over your old roof, you’re not alone. On the surface, a "roof-over" sounds like a great deal — less labor, fewer materials, and a quicker install. But as with most “too good to be true” offers, there's a big catch. At Allstate Exteriors, we believe in doing things the right way, not the fast or easy way — and that’s why we don’t offer roof-overs. Ever. Here’s why that shortcut might cost you more than you bargained for. 🏚️ What Is a Roof-Over, Exactly? A “roof-over” is when a contractor installs a new layer of shingles right on top of your existing roof — no tear-off, no inspection underneath, just one roof stacked on top of another. While it might seem like a quick fix, it’s really just a Band-Aid on a problem that needs surgery. Would you repaint over rotted wood or tile over a cracked foundation? Probably not. The same principle applies here. 🚫 5 Reasons Roof-Overs Just Don’t Cut It 1. You Can’t Fix What You Can’t See Underneath your shingles is a whole system that protects your home — decking, flashing, underlayment, ventilation, and more. If you don’t remove the old shingles, you can’t see if: The decking is soft or water-damaged There’s hidden mold or rot Past leaks have compromised your structure A roof-over covers it all up, which means problems are left to quietly get worse — until they become expensive (and sometimes dangerous) surprises. 2. It Adds Serious Weight to Your Home Your roof wasn’t designed to support two layers of shingles — and yet, that’s exactly what a roof-over forces it to do. This added weight can cause: Structural stress Sagging or bowing in your roofline Reduced attic ventilation (hello, moisture problems) Especially in Ohio winters when snow piles up, or during Florida’s heavy storm seasons, that extra weight isn’t doing your home any favors. 3. You’ll Likely Lose Your Warranty Many manufacturers clearly state in their warranties that shingles must be installed on a clean, properly prepared surface. If you opt for a roof-over, you might be waving goodbye to any product warranty you’d otherwise have. That means if something goes wrong — and let’s be honest, it often does — you’re on your own. 4. You’re Not Actually Saving Money Sure, skipping the tear-off might shave a few bucks off your upfront cost. But here’s what we see time and time again: A homeowner opts for a roof-over, only to discover leaks, rotting decking, or sagging a few months later. Now they’re paying for a full tear-off and repairs on top of what they already spent. It's like taping over a leaky pipe and hoping for the best. 5. It Just Doesn’t Look Good Let’s be real — curb appeal matters. Roof-overs often result in an uneven, wavy appearance. The new shingles conform to the bumps and imperfections of the old layer beneath them. It’s not the sleek, clean look most homeowners want after investing in a new roof. If you’re going to improve your home’s value, make sure the outside reflects that investment. 🔨 Why We Only Do Full Tear-Offs at Allstate Exteriors When you choose Allstate Exteriors, you're choosing quality over shortcuts, and integrity over convenience. We don’t believe in covering up problems. Instead, we: Fully remove your old roofing system Thoroughly inspect your roof decking and structure Replace any rotted or soft decking Install high-performance underlayment and flashing Finish with beautiful, warrantied shingles — installed to the manufacturer’s exact specs It’s a process that takes a little more time, but it’s the only way we’d want it done on our own homes — and that’s the standard we bring to yours. 🏡 Your Roof Deserves Better Your roof isn’t just another part of your house — it’s what protects everything underneath it. Your family. Your belongings. Your peace of mind. So when it’s time for a new roof, don’t settle for a shortcut. Don’t settle for “good enough.” Get it done right. Get it done once. At Allstate Exteriors, we’re here to guide you every step of the way — with honesty, quality craftsmanship, and zero pressure. ✅ Ready to upgrade your roof the right way? Book your free inspection today and let’s make sure your home is protected from the top down — no shortcuts, no surprises, just roofing done right.

Let’s be honest—roofing isn’t cheap. So when you get multiple quotes and one of them is way lower than the others, it’s hard not to consider it. A new roof is a big investment, and who doesn’t love saving money? But here’s the truth : when it comes to your roof, cheapest doesn’t mean best. In fact, going with the lowest bid could end up costing you way more in the long run—and not just in dollars. At Allstate Exteriors, we’ll always give you a fair, honest price—but we’ll never be the cheapest. That’s not who we are. Because we believe your roof should be done right, not rushed. And by the time you hit your first storm or spot your first leak, you’ll be glad you chose quality. Here’s why 1. Cheap Materials Don’t Protect Your Home Long-Term The fastest way to slash a roofing estimate? Cut corners on materials. Some contractors use the cheapest shingles, low-grade underlayment, or skip important components like ice and water shield—all to keep that number nice and low. But in Florida’s heat or Ohio’s ice and snow, those shortcuts fall apart fast. You might save a couple thousand today… but when your “new” roof starts shedding shingles in a storm or leaking by year five, the regret sets in. We only use materials we trust—products that stand up to weather, time, and everything in between. 2. Low Labor Costs = Rushed, Unskilled Work Let’s talk about labor. When a company offers the “lowest price in town,” ask yourself: how are they paying their crew? The truth is, cheap roofing jobs often mean underpaid, inexperienced, or even uninsured workers. And when that happens, it shows. Shingles go on wrong. Flashing gets missed. Ventilation is an afterthought. It may not be obvious right away, but give it a few months—or one good storm—and the flaws come to the surface. At Allstate Exteriors, our crews are trained, professional, and proud of their work. We don’t cut corners, because we know what’s at stake: your home, your family, and your peace of mind. 3. What You Don’t See Can Hurt You Here’s the thing—most roofing issues aren’t obvious until they’re really obvious. By then, you're dealing with water damage, mold, soft spots in the decking, or rotted fascia boards. Many low-cost bids skip or rush the details you can’t see: They don’t check for hidden decking damage They reuse old flashing They ignore ventilation issues They skimp on cleanup and disposal That means more repairs (and stress) later. A proper roof replacement is more than just what you can see from the ground—it’s the work behind the scenes that keeps your home safe. 4. We're Not in the Business of "Good Enough" We’ve been in this business a long time, and we’ve seen it all. We’ve been called to fix the “cheap jobs.” We’ve heard the stories of roofs that failed after just a few years. And we’ve seen homeowners forced to pay twice for a job that should have lasted decades. That’s not what we want for you. We’re not here to be the cheapest—we’re here to be the team you trust to do it right the first time. Because that’s what you, your home, and your family deserve. Final Thoughts: A Roof Is an Investment—Treat It Like One We’ll always be transparent with our pricing. We’ll walk you through every line item. And we’ll never push upgrades you don’t need. But we will give you the best options to protect your home long-term—and we’ll stand behind every nail, every shingle, every decision we make. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about getting a roof—it’s about getting it done right. Ready to Talk? Let’s schedule a free inspection and walk through your options. No pressure. No gimmicks. Just honest advice from a team that truly cares. 👉 Schedule Your Free Inspection – and find out why quality really does matter.

Florida life comes with sunshine, salty air, and unfortunately… hurricane season. From June through November, we Floridians stay alert to swirling systems off the coast. And while it’s easy to focus on flashlights and bottled water (which are important!), your home’s exterior is what truly shields you when the wind picks up. At Allstate Exteriors, we specialize in roofing , siding , and gutters —and we’ve seen firsthand how storms can impact homes that weren’t quite ready. So here are the most important things you should know to keep your home (and peace of mind) protected this hurricane season. 🏠 1. Your Roof Is Your First Line of Defense Your roof takes the brunt of every storm. But not all roofs are installed—or maintained—with hurricane-force winds in mind. What to know: Loose, curling, or missing shingles are early signs of risk Old or improperly installed roofs may not meet Florida wind codes Even small leaks can turn into massive water damage during a storm Solution: ✔️ Schedule a FREE r oof inspection before hurricane season hits full swing. ✔️ Ask about impact-rated roofing materials and storm-tough installation methods. ✔️ Consider upgrading to Owens Corning Duration shingles with wind resistance up to 130mph—yes, we install those! 💧 2. Gutters Matter More Than You Think You may not think about your gutters often… but you’ll definitely notice them when they’re overflowing in a downpour. Why they matter: Properly functioning gutters direct water away from your home and foundation Blocked or broken gutters lead to roof leaks, siding rot, and even basement flooding Hurricane rain is fast, heavy, and relentless—your drainage needs to keep up Solution: ✔️ Make sure gutters are cleaned, secured, and flowing correctly ✔️ Upgrade to seamless gutters to reduce leaks ✔️ Ask us about gutter guards—a small upgrade that saves big during storm season 🧱 3. Your Siding Can Take a Beating—If It’s Not Up to Par Strong winds, flying debris, wind-driven rain—your siding is right in the line of fire. What to check for: Cracks, gaps, or warping in your siding Loose panels or missing trim Signs of moisture or mold on your interior walls Solution: ✔️ Replace outdated siding with hurricane-resistant materials like fiber cement ✔️ Choose siding options that are impact-rated and properly sealed ✔️ Ask us about custom color-matched siding installations that boost both curb appeal and storm durability 🧰 4. You Need More Than Flashlights—You Need an Exterior Plan We always recommend building a storm kit, but your home itself needs a plan too. A few things we always advise Florida homeowners: Get your roof, gutters, and siding inspected yearly (ideally before summer hits) Take “before” photos of your exterior to simplify insurance claims Know your deductible and what’s covered under storm damage Have a trusted contractor saved in your phone (hint: it’s us 👋) When a storm rolls through and your roof’s leaking or siding’s blown off, you don’t want to be stuck Googling for help. You want someone local, licensed, and already familiar with your home. 🌬️ 5. A Little Prep Now Can Save Thousands Later We’ve had homeowners call us in a panic after a storm—wishing they had handled that soft spot on their roof or that cracked siding panel weeks ago. The truth? Most storm-related home damage is preventable when the right prep is done ahead of time. Here’s what we recommend for every Florida homeowner: ✅ Book a roof + exterior inspection before peak storm season ✅ Trim trees, secure outdoor items, clean gutters ✅ Consider upgrading to storm-rated materials if your roof or siding is older ✅ Document your home’s condition (photos, warranties, receipts) 🛠️ Bonus: What to Expect from an Allstate Exteriors Inspection Not sure where to start? That’s where we come in. When you schedule a free hurricane-readiness inspection with Allstate Exteriors, we’ll: 🔍 Check your roof for signs of wear, damage, or improper installation 🔍 Inspect your siding for cracks, loose panels, or rot 🔍 Evaluate your gutter system for clogs, drainage issues, or weak spots 🔍 Provide recommendations on how to strengthen your home’s defense before the storms hit You’ll walk away with a clear plan—whether that’s a simple fix or a full upgrade—and the confidence of knowing your home’s in good hands. Bottom Line: Don’t wait until you see your neighbor’s shingles in your yard to take hurricane season seriously. With a few smart moves—and a little help from your local pros—you can stay protected, dry, and storm-ready. 📞 Call us today or book your inspection online

Allstate Exteriors Explains What Homeowners Should Expect When it comes to protecting your home, few things are more important than your roof. But how long does a roof actually last in Columbus, Ohio ? The answer depends on the materials used, the quality of installation, and how well it’s maintained over the years—especially in a place like Columbus where we see all four seasons (sometimes in the same week!). At Allstate Exteriors, we’re here to walk you through what you can realistically expect from your roof and how to get the most life out of it. First, Columbus Weather Plays a Big Role From humid, stormy summers to snowy, freezing winters, our Ohio weather puts roofs to the test. The freeze-thaw cycles, hail, high winds, and UV exposure all take a toll—meaning roofs in our region often wear faster than in milder climates. Roof Material vs Lifespan Here’s what we typically see for central Ohio homes: Roof Types & Expected Lifespan Asphalt 3‑tab shingles : 15–20 years Architectural (dimensional) shingles : 25–30+ years Metal roofing: 40–70 years Slate, tile, or concrete roofs: 50–100+ years Wood shake roofs: 20–30 years (with upkeep) At Allstate Exteriors, we specialize in high-quality asphalt and metal roofing solutions—and we’re a proud Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor, which means our architectural shingles come with enhanced warranties and long-term durability. What Shortens a Roof’s Life? Even the best shingles won’t last forever if a few key things are ignored. Here's what we see that causes premature wear: Poor ventilation – This leads to moisture and heat buildup in your attic, which damages decking and curls shingles. Inadequate installation – Sadly, we’ve seen it all: Improper nail placement, skipped underlayment, or flashing errors. That’s why our trained installers never cut corners. Clogged gutters and overhanging trees – Keep your roof debris-free! Storm damage – Hail, high winds, and heavy snow buildup can slowly chip away at your roof’s lifespan. Signs It’s Time to Replace (Not Just Repair) Wondering if your roof’s at the end of the road? Keep an eye out for: Curling or cracked shingles Missing sections of shingles Granules showing up in your gutters Moss or dark streaks (a sign of algae) Sagging rooflines or ceiling stains inside If your roof is 15+ years old, it’s smart to get a professional inspection every 1–2 years so you can plan ahead—rather than react to leaks or damage after the fact. How Allstate Exteriors Can Help We’ve been helping homeowners in Columbus and surrounding areas protect their homes since 2002. When you choose Allstate, you’re getting: Local expertise on Ohio weather and roofing codes Certified, in-house installers Honest roof evaluations (we’ll never sell you something you don’t need) Options to fit your budget—including flexible payment options Extended warranties through our Platinum Preferred partnership with Owens Corning Whether your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan or you just want peace of mind, we’re here to help you make a confident, informed decision. Ready for a Free Roof Inspection?

If you live in Florida, you already know that hurricane season isn’t a maybe—it’s a matter of when. While we love the sunshine, ocean breezes, and afternoon thunderstorms, that warm tropical air can flip from peaceful to powerful real quick. Every year, as the forecasts roll in and storm names start popping up, homeowners across the state scramble to “get ready.” But even with the best intentions, it's easy to overlook a few crucial things that could make a world of difference. So let’s talk about the top six mistakes Florida homeowners make when preparing for a hurricane—and more importantly, how to avoid them with confidence. 1. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Prepare We’ve all been there. One minute you're watching the weather casually, and the next you're in a mile-long line at the hardware store, fighting over the last pack of batteries. Spoiler alert: Hurricane prep doesn’t work well when it’s rushed. What to do instead: Treat hurricane prep like spring cleaning—it’s just part of your routine. Stock up early on water, flashlights, batteries, canned food, and yes—don’t forget the wine (because let’s be honest, you’ll want it). Also, get those inspection appointments on the books before everyone else does. Roofers, inspectors, and tree trimmers get backed up fast once a storm is named. 2. Ignoring the Roof Because It “Looks Fine” If it’s not leaking, it’s fine… right? Not quite. Your roof is the only thing standing between your home and Mother Nature’s worst mood swings. And unfortunately, some of the most dangerous damage is the kind you can’t see from the ground. What to do instead: Call in a local pro ( like us 😉) for a free roof inspection. Even minor damage—like a lifted shingle or loose flashing—can turn into major leaks once 100 mph winds start ripping through. Preventive care now saves you money, stress, and that awful feeling of dripping water in your living room later. 3. Overlooking the Small Stuff: Soffits, Gutters, and Vents You boarded your windows, stocked your pantry, and reinforced the garage door—but did you check your soffits? Or clean out your gutters? Or make sure your attic vents are properly sealed? What to do instead: These little details can be your weakest link during a storm. Loose soffits or clogged gutters can lead to wind uplift or water backing into your home. A quick exterior inspection can make all the difference. Better yet—have a pro do it so nothing gets missed. 4. Relying Too Much on Insurance Without Proof Here’s a tough truth: insurance companies don’t always make it easy. Especially when you can’t prove the damage happened after the storm, and not before. What to do instead: Take 15 minutes and do a walkaround video of your home before hurricane season. Capture the roof, windows, soffits, gutters—everything. Even better? Schedule a professional inspection and get documentation. Having photos, reports, and dated notes makes filing a claim way easier if you ever need to. 5. Skipping Professional Help Until It’s Too Late We get it—you’re busy, and it’s tempting to just “eyeball” your roof or rely on the neighbor who used to be a contractor 10 years ago. But DIY doesn’t always cut it when hurricanes are involved. What to do instead: Call in a professional and let us do the heavy lifting. We’ll check your roof, your soffits, your gutters, and everything in between. No stress, no obligation—just peace of mind. Final Thought: Be Proactive, Not Panicked At the end of the day, preparing for a hurricane shouldn’t feel like chaos. With a little planning—and a trusted local team by your side—you can protect your home, your family, and your sanity. Don't let these common mistakes catch you off guard. The earlier you prep, the better you sleep when that cone of uncertainty heads your way. Ready to get your home hurricane-ready? Allstate Exteriors is here to help—whether it’s a free roof inspection, storm prep guidance, or just an honest second opinion. We’re local, we’re experienced, and we genuinely care about helping Florida homeowners stay safe. Schedule your free inspection today