Planning a roof replacement can feel like a big project, with important decisions about materials, style, and budget. It’s easy to get caught up in myths or assumptions that could cost you time, money, or peace of mind.
At Custom Built, we’ve guided Michigan homeowners through countless roof replacements, understanding the challenges of harsh winters, heavy snow, and tricky installations. We know how confusing the process can feel without the right guidance.
In this article, we’ll break down the eight most common roof replacement misconceptions and give you clear, practical advice to make smart decisions that protect your home and family:
- Misconception 1: A New Roof is Just About Shingles
- Misconception 2: You Can Wait Until Leaks Appear
- Misconception 3: All Roofing Materials Perform the Same
- Misconception 4: Roof Replacement is Always Quick and Easy
- Misconception 5: DIY Roof Replacement Saves Money
- Misconception 6: The Lowest Bid is the Best Value
- Misconception 7: Roof Replacements Don’t Add Significant Value
- Misconception 8: Insurance Will Cover Everything After Storm Damage
Misconception 1: A New Roof is Just About Shingles
Many homeowners see shingles as the “roof” and assume replacing them alone is enough. But shingles are just the top layer of a much bigger system. Without the right underlayment, flashing, and ventilation, shingles can’t perform their job of protecting your home.
Think of it like putting new tires on a car with bad brakes: The visible part might look new, but the system behind it isn’t sound.
What to Know Instead:
Michigan building code requires at least 2 feet of ice-and-water shield protection from the edge of your roofline, but many homes benefit from extending that barrier further.
Without it, ice dams can form, backing up water under shingles and into your home.
Pair this with proper ridge and soffit ventilation to keep your attic cool and dry. Cutting corners here means your “new” roof could fail in under 10 years, even though shingles might be rated for 25-30.
Misconception 2: You Can Wait Until Leaks Appear
It’s natural to put off big expenses like roof replacements. However, by the time water shows up inside, the damage has usually spread to decking, insulation, drywall, and even electrical systems.
What could have been a straightforward replacement often becomes a costly repair.
What to Know Instead:
In Michigan, curled shingles, granule loss, moss growth, or sagging rooflines are red flags. Replacing early can save thousands in repair costs. A well-maintained roof not only protects your home but also extends the life of your entire structure.
Misconception 3: All Roofing Materials Perform the Same
Walking through a home improvement store, it’s easy to think shingles are just shingles. After all, they often look similar on the shelf. But not all roofing products are designed for Michigan’s harsh freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow loads, and strong winds.
Choosing the wrong material can shorten the lifespan of your investment by decades.
What to Know Instead:
- 3-Tab Shingles: 15-20 years lifespan, low upfront cost, but vulnerable to wind and snow loads.
- Architectural Asphalt Shingles: 20-30 years, better durability, most common in Michigan.
- Composite/Synthetic Roofing: 40-50+ years, designed for extreme durability, but premium priced.
Selecting the right material is about more than aesthetics; it’s about choosing a system that can withstand Michigan’s unique climate.
Misconception 4: Roof Replacement is Always Quick and Easy
Some TV shows make roofing look like a one-day flip.
In reality, replacing a roof is a complex process, especially in Michigan, where steep pitches, multiple layers of old shingles, or storm-damaged decking are common.
A rushed installation can lead to mistakes that cost more down the line.
What to Know Instead:
Most replacements take 2-5 days, depending on the size and condition of your roof. Rushing may lead to skipped steps, like proper flashing around chimneys or valleys (areas where leaks almost always start). Taking time for quality workmanship ensures your investment lasts.
Misconception 5: DIY Roof Replacement Saves Money
With online tutorials, it’s tempting to think roofing can be a weekend project. But climbing onto a roof with power tools and heavy bundles of shingles is not only dangerous. It’s also a gamble with your home’s long-term safety.
DIY work often voids manufacturer warranties and can leave small errors hidden until they turn into major problems.
What to Know Instead:
Beyond safety risks, DIY roofing often voids manufacturer warranties. Professional contractors also carry liability insurance and can provide workmanship warranties, giving you protection if issues arise years later. The upfront savings rarely outweigh the long-term risks.
Misconception 6: The Lowest Bid is the Best Value
When comparing quotes, the lowest number can be appealing. But in roofing, a “deal” often comes at the expense of quality materials, proper underlayment, or skilled labor.
If a bid seems too good to be true, it usually is.
What to Know Instead:
Always ask contractors to break down materials, underlayment type, flashing, ventilation, and warranty details.
A clear proposal shows you what you’re paying for. Paying more upfront often means fewer repairs and better peace of mind.
Misconception 7: Roof Replacements Don’t Add Significant Value
Some homeowners see a roof as nothing more than maintenance, something invisible once it’s installed. While it may not be as flashy as a kitchen remodel, a roof replacement has a direct impact on both resale value and buyer confidence.
What to Know Instead:
According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, an asphalt shingle replacement in Lansing recoups 66.9% of its cost in resale value. Beyond numbers, a new roof removes a huge objection for buyers, helping homes sell faster in Michigan’s competitive markets.
Misconception 8: Insurance Will Cover Everything After Storm Damage
When hail or windstorms hit, it’s easy to assume your insurance will handle everything. But policies are written to cover sudden, accidental damage, not roofs that were already nearing the end of their lifespan. This can leave homeowners shocked when coverage falls short.
What to Know Instead:
Insurance covers sudden, accidental damage, but not normal wear and tear. If your roof was already at the end of its lifespan, the adjuster may only pay a fraction of the replacement cost. Keep maintenance records and schedule regular inspections to support claims when storms hit.
Next Steps to Replacing Your Roof
Roof replacement can feel complicated, but understanding the facts helps you make confident decisions. By learning the truth behind common misconceptions, you’re better equipped to choose the right materials, contractor, and approach for your Michigan home.
At Custom Built, we guide families through every step, ensuring your roof replacement is safe, efficient, and long-lasting.
Start by scheduling a consultation to review your roof’s condition and explore options that protect your home for years to come.
Now that you know more about misconceptions about roof replacement projects, let’s explore what the first step of the Custom Built Proven Process looks like with your build, a deeper look into common roofing materials, and the best exterior home improvement projects:
- What is a Discovery Call with Custom Built? - This article details what your first call with Custom Built looks like as you start planning your remodel.
- Comparing Roofing Materials for Your Michigan Home - Learn more about the various roofing materials you can incorporate into your replacement project.
- Top 5 Exterior Home Improvement Solutions in Michigan - Discover exciting ways to upgrade your home’s exterior with weather-resistant options.
