What Type of Insurance Should a Roofing Contractor Have and Why it Matters

From Your Local Roofing Experts at Allstate Exteriors. If you’ve taken a drive around your neighborhood lately, you’ve probably noticed it — more and more homes across Florida are trading in traditional shingles for sleek, modern metal roofs. And it’s not just a style choice. Metal roofing is quickly becoming the go-to option for Florida homeowners who want lasting protection, energy savings, and curb appeal that turns heads. From handling hurricane winds to keeping homes cooler in the summer heat, a metal roof is one upgrade that checks all the boxes for our unique Florida lifestyle. Here’s why your neighbors might already be making the switch — and why you might want to consider it too. 1. Built for Florida’s Wild Weather Here in the Sunshine State, “a chance of rain” can turn into a full-blown tropical storm in a matter of hours. Your roof has to be ready for hurricane-force winds, pounding rain, and the occasional flying palm frond. A properly installed metal roof can handle wind speeds up to 140–160 mph , depending on the system. And because the panels lock together, there are fewer gaps for wind to get under or for water to sneak through. 💡 Pro Tip: Metal roofs aren’t just tough — they’re also resistant to cracking, curling, and erosion, which means they hold up beautifully year after year, no matter what the weather throws their way. 2. Lasts for Decades (and Then Some) A standard shingle roof might last 15–20 years in Florida’s climate… if you’re lucky. Metal roofing? You’re looking at 40–70 years of protection with minimal maintenance. That means if you invest in a metal roof today, you could be set for the rest of the time you own your home — no more budgeting for another replacement down the road. 3. Keeps Your Home Cooler (and Your Bills Lower) Florida summers are beautiful, but let’s be honest — they’re hot enough to make your air conditioner work overtime. Metal roofs reflect the sun’s rays instead of absorbing them, which helps keep your home cooler naturally. Many homeowners see their cooling costs drop by up to 25% after switching to metal. Pair that with proper attic ventilation, and your roof becomes a built-in partner for your AC. 4. Low-Maintenance Living Between the humidity, salty air near the coast, and daily summer downpours, Florida is tough on roofs. The good news? Metal roofing is naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and rot — the three big enemies of many other roofing materials. Maintenance is a breeze: keep it clean, make sure fasteners are secure, and rinse off salt buildup if you live near the ocean. That’s it. 5. Designed to Look as Good as It Performs Forget the old-school image of plain silver panels. Today’s metal roofs can mimic the look of shingles, wood shake, or even clay tile — with a rainbow of color choices to match your home’s style. Whether you own a Key West cottage, a Spanish-style villa, or a sleek modern build, there’s a metal roofing style that will make your home stand out while giving you the storm protection you need. 6. A Greener Choice for Florida Homes Metal roofing isn’t just strong — it’s sustainable. Many systems contain 25–95% recycled content and are 100% recyclable at the end of their lifespan. For Florida homeowners who care about protecting our beautiful environment, that’s a big bonus. The Bottom Line Between its hurricane resistance, long lifespan, energy efficiency, and gorgeous design options, it’s no wonder metal roofing is quickly becoming Florida’s favorite. It’s the kind of upgrade that’s as smart as it is stylish — built to handle everything from blazing sunshine to the roughest hurricane season. 📞 Call us today to schedule your free estimate!

At Allstate Exteriors, we’ve seen just about every kind of siding there is. We’ve repaired it, replaced it, and tested it against everything Mother Nature can throw at it—blazing Florida sun, pounding Ohio hail, hurricane-force winds, and icy winter freezes. After all those years in the field, there’s one siding brand we recommend time and time again to our customers: James Hardie. Why? Because it’s not just siding. It’s a shield for your home. A gorgeous, durable, long-lasting investment that protects your biggest asset while keeping it looking incredible for decades. Built to Handle Whatever Weather You’re Up Against Ohio and Florida might be on opposite ends of the weather spectrum, but both can be brutal on a home’s exterior. In Ohio: Winter’s freeze-thaw cycles can wreak havoc on lower-quality siding, causing it to crack, warp, or swell. James Hardie’s fiber cement is engineered to resist all that—no warping, no peeling, no surprise repairs in the spring. In Florida: Between scorching summer sun, salty coastal air, and tropical storms, you need siding that doesn’t fade, melt, or buckle under pressure. James Hardie holds up beautifully - even when the winds pick up. This isn’t “good enough” siding—it’s siding built specifically to last in challenging climates like ours. Curb Appeal That Lasts for Years Your home deserves siding that looks as good as it protects. James Hardie offers a wide range of colors and styles—lap siding, board-and-batten, shingle—so you can create a look that’s perfectly yours. And thanks to ColorPlus® Technology, those colors stay vibrant year after year. We’re talking fade resistance that blows paint and vinyl siding out of the water. Whether you’re going for coastal chic in Florida or classic craftsman charm in Ohio, you’ll still be in love with the way your home looks 10 years from now. Low Maintenance = More Time for You Nobody wants to spend their weekends scraping, painting, or repairing siding. With James Hardie, you won’t have to. Fiber cement doesn’t rot. It doesn’t attract pests. It doesn’t buckle in the heat or crack in the cold. That means less time fixing and more time enjoying your home. A True Investment in Your Home New siding is one of the best ways to boost your home’s value—and James Hardie gives you a return that lasts. It’s energy efficient, which means your home stays cooler in summer and warmer in winter, helping lower those energy bills. And when it comes time to sell, buyers recognize and appreciate the quality. Why Allstate Exteriors Trusts James Hardie We don’t recommend products lightly. If we wouldn’t put it on our own homes, we won’t put it on yours. James Hardie has proven itself job after job—standing up to storms, holding its color, and keeping homes protected year after year. From our crews in Columbus, Ohio to our team in Cape Coral, Florida , we’ve seen firsthand how well this siding performs in every condition. If your siding is starting to show its age—or you’re just ready for a fresh new look—let’s chat. We’ll walk you through your style and color options, show you exactly how James Hardie will perform on your home, and give you a quote that’s fair, honest, and straightforward. Protect your home. Boost your curb appeal. Choose siding that’s built to last. Contact Allstate Exteriors today for your free estimate!

If you’ve never had a roof replaced before, you might picture a crew showing up, tearing off shingles, and slapping on new ones in a single afternoon. Simple, right? Not quite. A roof replacement is more like a carefully choreographed production — one where timing, skill, and attention to detail all have to work together perfectly. At Allstate Exteriors, we treat each project like it’s the main event, because for you and your home, it is. Here’s your behind-the-scenes pass to see what really happens when we replace your roof — from the quiet planning stage to the final reveal. 1. The Pre-Project Planning Stage This is the part you don’t usually see, but it’s one of the most important steps. Think of it as setting the stage before the show begins. Thorough Roof Inspection – We check every slope, every valley, and every vent, looking for the sneaky signs of trouble that other contractors sometimes miss — soft decking, hidden leaks, or ventilation issues. Material & Design Choices – This is where your roof’s “personality” comes to life. Whether you’re in snowy Ohio or hurricane-prone Florida, we help you choose shingles and materials built for your climate. Permits, Scheduling & Weather Watching – We handle all the paperwork, keep an eye on the forecast, and schedule your project for the perfect weather window. 2. Tear-Off Day: The Big Reveal The first day of visible work is always exciting. This is where your old roof comes off and your home starts its transformation. Protecting Your Property – We lay out tarps and plywood to safeguard your landscaping, siding, and windows from stray debris. Complete Tear-Off – Every old shingle, nail, and worn-out underlayment is removed, exposing the decking underneath. Decking Inspection & Repairs – If we find rotted wood or soft spots, we replace them immediately so your new roof has a strong, healthy foundation. 📸 Pro tip : This stage is the perfect time to grab a “before” photo — the transformation will be even more dramatic when you compare it later . 3. Building the New Roof Now, the magic happens. The hum of nail guns, the rhythm of shingles being laid, and the sight of your new roof taking shape is something special. Waterproofing First – We install underlayment and ice/water shields to protect your home from leaks. These are the unsung heroes of a long-lasting roof. Flashing & Ventilation – Every chimney, skylight, and roof valley gets precise flashing to keep water out. We also ensure your attic ventilation is just right — not too much, not too little — so your shingles last longer. Shingle Installation – Whether it’s impact-resistant shingles for Florida storms or architectural shingles for Ohio winters, each one is placed with care for maximum wind resistance and beauty. 4. The Grand Finale: Clean-Up & Walkthrough We believe a roofing crew should leave your home better than they found it. That means cleaning up like it’s our own property. Magnetic Sweep – We run powerful magnets across your yard, driveway, and flower beds to collect any stray nails. Debris Removal – Every scrap of old roofing is hauled away — no lingering dumpster, no leftover mess. Final Inspection – Our project manager climbs up, checks every seam and shingle, then invites you to join us for the final walkthrough so you can see the craftsmanship up close. 5. What’s Happening Behind the Curtain While you’re watching the visible work, here’s what’s going on in the background: Coordinating material deliveries so nothing delays your project. Communicating with your insurance company to keep claims moving smoothly. Tracking weather patterns daily to avoid any surprises. Documenting every step for your warranty and future records. Why All These Steps Matter A roof replacement isn’t just about curb appeal — it’s about protection, safety, and peace of mind for decades to come. Skipping steps or rushing the process can lead to costly repairs later. When you choose Allstate Exteriors, you get more than just a roof. You get a team that treats your home like our own, follows every best practice, and makes sure you’re informed and comfortable through every stage. Is Your Roof Ready for Its Makeover? 📞 Call us today or Request Your Free Estimate to start your roof’s transformation.

When a hurricane barrels through Cape Coral , your roof is your home’s first line of defense — and sometimes, it takes the hardest hit. We’ve seen it all: shingles ripped away, decking exposed to the rain, and even entire sections of roofing torn off in the storm’s path. At Allstate Exteriors, we know how overwhelming those first hours can feel. That’s why we put together this guide to help you take the right steps immediately after a hurricane, so you can protect your home, secure your roof, and start the recovery process as quickly as possible. 1. Safety Comes First — Always After a hurricane, it’s tempting to rush outside and see the damage for yourself. But safety must be your number one priority. Stay off the roof — hurricane damage makes surfaces slippery, unstable, and dangerous. Watch for downed power lines, broken glass, and loose debris. Wear gloves, closed-toe shoes, and protective eyewear if you need to move small debris. ⚠ Our Tip: If your roof has large openings or water is pouring inside, call for emergency help immediately. We provide 24/7 emergency tarping to keep your home safe until permanent repairs can be made. 2. Document Every Detail Insurance companies move faster when you provide clear evidence — and the sooner you start, the better. Take plenty of photos and videos from multiple angles, both inside and out. Focus on missing shingles, exposed wood, bent flashing, and water-stained ceilings or walls. Don’t throw away damaged materials until your adjuster sees them. Our team can also perform a professional storm damage inspection and provide a detailed report to support your claim. 3. Stop Water in Its Tracks Even small roof openings can cause big interior problems. Acting fast now can save you thousands later. Use tarps or heavy-duty plastic to cover exposed areas (we can handle this for you safely). Move valuables, electronics, and furniture away from leaks. Place buckets under drips and turn off electricity to affected rooms. 💡 Why It Matters: Mold can start forming in as little as 24–48 hours — so sealing up your roof quickly is essential. 4. Call a Trusted Local Roofer — Not a Storm Chaser After hurricanes, out-of-town contractors often flood Cape Coral offering “quick fixes” that don’t last. Protect yourself by working with a local, licensed, and insured roofer who has proven hurricane repair experience. We’ve helped countless Cape Coral homeowners restore their roofs after severe storms. We understand Florida building codes and hurricane-resistant roofing requirements. We’ll be here long after your repairs are done — we’re not going anywhere. 5. File Your Insurance Claim Right Away With so many claims after a hurricane, timing is everything. Contact your insurer within 24–48 hours. Share your photos, videos, and our inspection report. Keep detailed notes on every call, email, and receipt. We’ll even meet your adjuster on-site to make sure all damage is documented — not just what’s visible from the ground. 6. Schedule a Comprehensive Roof Inspection Storm damage isn’t always obvious. What looks like a small leak now can lead to major structural issues later. Our inspections check for: Lifted or loosened shingles that can let water in later Water damage hidden under the surface Cracked or damaged flashing around chimneys and vents Soft spots in the decking that indicate rot A proper inspection now helps ensure your home is truly protected — and your insurance claim covers everything it should. When you call Allstate Exteriors, you get: Emergency tarping within hours of your call Detailed inspections with clear, honest recommendations Expert hurricane roof repairs designed to withstand Florida’s harshest weather A local team that’s here for the long haul — before, during, and after the storm Call Allstate Exteriors Today If your Cape Coral roof has been damaged by a hurricane, don’t wait. The first 48 hours are your best chance to prevent further damage, protect your home, and get your claim moving. We’re ready when you need us — fast, reliable, and local.

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.