The REAL Price Of A DIY Roof Replacement? Cost Analysis For The Frugal Homeowner:

Allstate Exteriors • April 17, 2023

Most homeowners are looking for ways to cut home improvements and repair costs. Doing some of the work yourself is a great way to save money, but you need to consider the actual costs when deciding which jobs to handle yourself and which are better left to the professionals.   

The Real Price of a Roof Replacement

Labor

Consider that you will need to schedule time off from work to install the roof. This time off also needs to be coordinated with others helping you. Some homeowners believe they can do the job alone but soon realize that carrying roof shingles up a ladder to the roof is very difficult to do alone. Homeowners often contact roofing contractors after they start an installation and then realize the project’s true scope.

Time to Completion

The time needed for a roof replacement needs to include preparation, installation, clean-up, waiting for construction permits, inspections, and other factors. All these can contribute to taking more time than expected to complete the installation. Inexperienced helpers also add to this equation.

Clean-up

After the job is complete, the clean-up begins. This clean-up involves removing all debris from the area, including landscaping near the home, driveway, and walkways. You will need a dumpster to haul everything away. Old roofing can be heavy. More than one person is needed to complete the clean-up process promptly.

Equipment Costs

Depending on the design of your roof, completing the job may require additional equipment. Extension ladders, scissors lifts, commercial nail guns, air compressors, shingle cutters, tarps in case of bad weather, Pry-bars, and other tools may be required to do the job correctly. Each helper will need tools. Renting these tools and equipment will drive up the overall cost.

Injury Risk

No one wants to think about this, but inexperienced roofers are unfamiliar with all the aspects of navigating a roof with different slopes and angles. Handling unfamiliar tools is also a risk. Your helpers may be family members or friends who are anxious to help you save on the cost of roof installation and disregard the possible dangers.

No Warranty

A warranty may not cover work done by a homeowner. This lack of coverage could wind up costing you over time. You may get a manufacturer’s warranty for defective materials, but nothing for poor workmanship. You will be responsible for the cost if significant repairs are necessary in the future.

Necessary Additional Repairs

A professional roofing company will do a complete inspection before starting the installation. During this careful examination of your roof, any damage to underlayment, structure, or other parts of your roof system will be uncovered and added to the time of completion and cost. It is difficult for a homeowner without extensive experience in roofing to spot these problems. A new roof installed over faulty decking or structure problems will certainly have a reduced lifespan and potentially need repairs. These repairs cannot be skipped, or problems will surface during the worst time, such as during a storm.

Additional Concerns

Like all construction projects, sometimes damage is discovered while doing a job. This damage needs to be repaired before continuing with installing the new roof. There may be bent or damaged flashing, gutters pulled away from the house, or damage to a chimney. Materials and extra time will be needed if this situation arises. Another problem that has become more common in recent years is lengthy delays in material delivery. These potential delays result in the need to coordinate a new time frame for the completion of the project. Hopefully, none of these problems will materialize, but you must be aware of the possibility.

The Bottom Line

Roof replacement involves all of these steps and more. The goal is to be aware of the scope of the construction before starting work to minimize frustration and estimate a realistic time frame for the completion of the project.

Saving money by thinking out of the box is commendable as long as you consider all these aspects of roof installation. Most homeowners realize the savings are far less than what was initially calculated in the budget. Additionally, a professional installation is a better solution to avoid the danger of injury to inexperienced family and friends recruited to assist with the construction. A professional roofing company will be able to help you install a quality roof safely. 

Please contact Allstate Exteriors to get a free estimate on a roof replacement. We have been proudly serving customers in Central Ohio and South West Florida since 2002. We aim to provide outstanding customer service and quality work on every job. Our friendly staff is always happy to answer any question regarding roof replacement or our services. We look forward to partnering with you for this roof replacement!

July 14, 2025
When it comes to choosing a contractor for your home, there’s something reassuring about working with a company that’s not just experienced — but rooted in family values. At Allstate Exteriors, we’re proud to be a family-owned and operated business that has served homeowners for more than 20 years. But what does that really mean for you? It means your home isn’t just another job to us. It’s personal. 🏠 Built on the Values That Still Guide Us Today Allstate Exteriors was built on a foundation of strong values that continue to guide everything we do today: Care about others. Always do the right thing, even when no one’s looking. Be a team player. Strive to be your personal best. These aren’t just words on a wall — they’re the principles we bring to every project, every home, and every interaction. Being family-owned means we hold ourselves to a higher standard, because our name and reputation are on the line — and we wouldn’t have it any other way. 💬 A Personalized, Hands-On Experience Unlike national chains or high-volume contractors, we don’t treat you like a number. From the first phone call to the final walk-through, we deliver a truly personal experience — rooted in genuine care and honest communication. We take the time to understand your goals, explain your options, and guide you through the process. Whether you’re dealing with storm damage or planning an upgrade, you’ll feel supported every step of the way. 🧰 Quality Work That Reflects Our Commitment After 20+ years in business, one thing remains true: we never cut corners. Every roof we install, every siding panel we place, and every gutter we replace is done with precision and pride. Because when you’re family-owned, your name is your brand — and your word matters. We use premium materials, hire skilled professionals, and stand behind our work with strong warranties and transparent communication. We believe that striving to be your personal best means never settling for “just good enough.” 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 A Team That Feels Like Family Our culture is built on teamwork — from our office staff to our crews in the field. Many of our team members have been with us for years, and that longevity shows in the way we work together and serve our customers. We show up on time. We clean up after ourselves. We treat your property with care. And if something isn’t right, we fix it — because doing the right thing, even when no one’s looking, is the only way we do business. 🌎 Proudly Serving Ohio and Florida Communities From the snow and storms of Ohio to the heat and humidity of Florida, we understand the different challenges homeowners face depending on their climate. Our team is trained and equipped to recommend the right materials and solutions for your specific region — so your home stays protected year-round. Whether you're in a quiet rural town or a busy coastal neighborhood, we’re committed to delivering top-notch service with hometown care. 💡 Why Being Family-Owned Still Matters In an industry where personal touch is often lost, being family-owned helps us stay focused on what matters most: people. We’re not just installing roofs or siding — we’re building trust, protecting homes, and showing up for our communities. When you work with Allstate Exteriors, you’re choosing a company that: Brings over two decades of industry experience Operates with heart, honesty, and teamwork Lives by values, not sales quotas There for you long after the job is done Ready to Experience the Allstate Exteriors Difference? Whether you need a roof replacement, new siding, updated gutters, or storm damage repair — we’d be honored to serve you. Let us show you what it’s like to work with a contractor who treats your home like their own. 👉 Contact us today for a free inspection or consultation — we’re here when you need us, like family should be.
July 11, 2025
At Allstate Exteriors, we take pride in delivering exceptional roofing solutions that are built to last. One of the ways we demonstrate that commitment is by holding the title of Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor—a designation that only the top roofing companies in the nation can claim. So, what does it really take to earn that status? And why should it matter to you as a homeowner? Let’s break it down. It’s Not a Badge You Can Just Buy Becoming an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor isn’t something you apply for online and get overnight. It’s invitation-only, and it’s reserved for roofing contractors who consistently meet the highest standards in workmanship, professionalism, and reliability. Out of all roofing companies in the U.S., only about 1% are selected for this elite program. What Owens Corning Looks for (and What We Delivered) To be selected as a Platinum Preferred Contractor, Owens Corning evaluated Allstate Exteriors on several strict criteria: ✅ Proven Longevity – We’ve been serving customers for over two decades with a track record of success. ✅ $1M+ Liability Insurance – To protect our customers and our team on every project. ✅ Workers’ Compensation Coverage – Meeting or exceeding all local and state requirements. ✅ Strong Financial Standing – No bankruptcies, consistent sales volume, and operational excellence. ✅ Impeccable Reputation – Verified through customer feedback and our A+ BBB rating. ✅ Workmanship Excellence – Our installations are reviewed and approved by Owens Corning inspectors. ✅ Ongoing Training – Our team regularly participates in manufacturer training to stay on the cutting edge of roofing technology and best practices. We don’t just meet these requirements—we exceed them. And that’s what earned us a place in this elite group. What That Means for You When you hire Allstate Exteriors, you're not just getting a contractor—you’re getting a Platinum Preferred Contractor backed by Owens Corning. Here’s what that means for your project: 🏠 Extended Warranties – We’re able to offer the exclusive Platinum Protection Limited Warranty, which covers workmanship for as long as you own your home. That’s peace of mind you won’t get with just any contractor. 🛠 Total Protection Roofing System – You get access to Owens Corning’s full system of products designed to work together for maximum durability, energy efficiency, and curb appeal. 📈 Higher Resale Value – That transferable warranty is a major selling point if you decide to sell your home down the road. 💬 Unmatched Customer Service – From your first phone call to your final inspection, we’re committed to delivering a 5-star experience every step of the way. Why Allstate Exteriors? There are thousands of roofing contractors out there—but only 1% earn the Platinum Preferred title. At Allstate Exteriors, we’re proud to be part of that 1%. We’ve earned Owens Corning’s highest distinction because we hold ourselves to the same standard they do: excellence in every detail. If you’re looking for a roofing contractor who’s been vetted by one of the most trusted names in the industry, we’d be honored to earn your business. Contact us today to schedule your free inspection and see the Platinum difference for yourself.
July 10, 2025
Keep Water Flowing and Big Problems Away Your gutters may not be the flashiest feature of your home, but when they’re working right, you probably don’t even notice them. And that’s exactly the point! A good gutter system quietly does the heavy lifting—protecting your roof, foundation, landscaping, and more from the damage water can cause. But when things go wrong? It doesn’t take long for a small gutter issue to become a much bigger (and more expensive) headache. At Allstate Exteriors, we’ve seen it all—from clogged-downspouts that flood basements to sagging gutters hanging on by a thread. Below, we’re sharing some of the most common gutter problems homeowners face—and the simple solutions to help you avoid serious water damage and costly repairs. 1. Clogged Gutters The Problem: Leaves, pine needles, twigs, and even roofing granules can quickly pile up in your gutters—especially in the fall or after heavy storms. Over time, these blockages prevent water from draining properly. Why It Matters: When water can’t flow through your gutters, it spills over the sides and starts soaking into places it shouldn’t—like your fascia boards, soffits, siding, or even your basement. The Solution: Gutter cleaning should be part of your regular home maintenance, ideally in spring and fall. Want a lower-maintenance option? Gutter guards help keep debris out and water flowing. 2. Sagging or Pulling Gutters The Problem: If your gutters are starting to dip, bend, or pull away from your home, it usually means they’re carrying too much weight (often from debris or standing water) or the fasteners have come loose. Why It Matters: Sagging gutters don’t just look bad—they also fail to channel water where it needs to go. Worse, they can eventually collapse or damage your home’s trim. The Solution: Reinforce the hangers or brackets and make sure the gutter slope is correct. If the gutters are old or badly damaged, a professional replacement might be the safest (and smartest) move. 3. Leaking Gutters or Seams The Problem: Leaks at seams, holes, or cracks in the gutters may seem small—but they’re often signs of aging materials or poor installation. Why It Matters: Over time, even a slow drip can erode your landscaping, damage your home’s foundation, or cause mold and mildew near your walls. The Solution: Apply gutter sealant to small cracks or leaks, or replace damaged sections. Looking for a leak-free future? Seamless gutters are a great investment that eliminate the most common leak points. 4. Incorrect Gutter Pitch The Problem: Gutters need a slight downward slope to guide water toward the downspouts. If the pitch is off—even just a little—water can start pooling. Why It Matters: Standing water can rust your gutters, attract pests (hello, mosquitoes!), and eventually cause them to sag or overflow. The Solution: Rehang the gutters or adjust the brackets to ensure proper pitch. As a rule of thumb, gutters should slope about ¼ inch for every 10 feet. 5. Downspout Dilemmas The Problem: Downspouts that are clogged, disconnected, or too short can’t do their job—which is to direct water away from your home. Why It Matters: If water pools near your foundation, you risk basement leaks, cracks, and major structural issues over time. The Solution: Make sure your downspouts are clear and properly connected. They should extend 4 to 6 feet away from your home. You can also add splash blocks or underground drainage for extra protection. 6. Ice Dams and Winter Woes The Problem: In colder climates, snow and ice can build up in your gutters, preventing water from draining. This leads to ice dams that force water back under your roof shingles. Why It Matters: Ice dams can cause roof leaks, damage to your insulation, and even mold growth inside your home. The Solution: Keep your attic properly insulated and ventilated to minimize heat loss that melts snow unevenly. In areas prone to ice, you might want to invest in heated gutter systems or schedule regular winter maintenance. Your gutters may not demand much attention—but when they do, it’s best to listen. Ignoring minor issues can lead to costly water damage, mold, foundation cracks, and more. At Allstate Exteriors, we provide expert gutter inspections , repairs, and full gutter replacement services for homeowners across Ohio and Florida. Whether you're dealing with a leaky joint or an aging system that just can't keep up, our team is here to help. Contact us today for a free estimate!
July 9, 2025
Metal Roofs That Look Like Shingles At Allstate Exteriors, we know homeowners want more than just protection—they want a roof that looks great, lasts for decades, and stands up to the elements. That’s why we’re proud to offer metal roofs that look just like traditional shingles. You no longer have to choose between durability and style. These modern roofing systems give you the aesthetic of shingles with the long-lasting performance of metal. Why More Homeowners Are Choosing Metal Roofs That Look Like Shingles ✅ Long-Term Durability Our shingle-style metal roofs are built to last 50+ years, easily outlasting traditional asphalt options. They resist wind, hail, heavy rain, and snow—making them ideal for both Florida hurricanes and Ohio winters. 💡 Energy Efficiency Metal reflects solar heat, helping you save on cooling costs—especially important in Florida's heat. It’s a smart move for energy-conscious homeowners. 🌱 Environmentally Friendly Most metal roofing materials are made from recycled content—and they’re recyclable again at the end of their life. 💸 Cost-Effective Over Time While the upfront cost may be higher than asphalt shingles, you’ll save money in the long run with lower maintenance, fewer repairs, and longer life. Curb Appeal Without Compromise Shingle-style metal roofs match beautifully with many home styles—from classic Craftsman homes to modern farmhouses. 🏡 Boost Your Home's Value A sleek, durable roof increases your resale value and curb appeal. Many of our clients say their neighbors can’t even tell it’s metal—until they mention it. Types of Shingle-Look Metal Roofs We Install At Allstate Exteriors, we offer a wide range of metal roofing options tailored to your style and budget: 🔷 Metal Shingle Panels Made from aluminum, steel, or copper, these panels closely replicate the look of architectural shingles. 🌊 Corrugated Panels with a Shingle Profile A textured, modern twist that’s perfect for rustic or industrial-chic homes. 📐 Standing Seam with Shingle-Inspired Design Clean lines meet traditional texture—great for contemporary homes with a classic touch. 🪵 Shake & Tile Metal Replicas Get the look of cedar shakes or Spanish tile—without the maintenance headaches. Design Options & Customization Whether you want subtle, earthy tones or a bold color pop, we’ll help you choose: Color options from matte black to terracotta Embossed textures for added realism Panel sizes to match your home’s style Professional Installation & Maintenance 🔧 Expert Installation You Can Trust Metal roofing requires precision. Our certified crews ensure proper underlayment, fastener placement, and ventilation—so your roof performs and looks its best. 🧽 Low Maintenance, Long-Term Payoff We recommend: Annual roof inspections Removing debris and checking for scratches Occasional re-coating to keep it looking like new What’s the Cost? We offer competitive pricing with financing options available. Most metal roofs come with 30–50 year warranties—some even lifetime. When properly maintained, you may never need another roof again. Real-World Results: See the Difference Our clients are often amazed at the before-and-after transformation. We’ve installed metal roofs that blend beautifully with historic homes, commercial buildings, and brand-new properties across Ohio and Florida. Let’s Get Started 🏠 Serving homeowners across Ohio and Florida 🔍 Free, no-pressure inspections 📅 Flexible scheduling that works for you 💬 Friendly, knowledgeable team ready to help 📞 Call Allstate Exteriors today or Schedule Your Free Estimate Online →
July 8, 2025
Water Dripping from Your Ceiling? Here’s What It Really Means—and Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Fix It Picture this: you’re relaxing at home when you notice a faint stain on your ceiling… or worse, you hear the slow drip drip drip of water. If you're like most homeowners, your first instinct might be to ignore it and hope it stops on its own. Unfortunately, ceiling leaks don’t go away—they get worse. At Allstate Exteriors, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you understand what a ceiling leak could mean for your home—and what to do about it before it turns into a much bigger, more expensive problem. What Does a Ceiling Leak Really Mean? A ceiling leak is almost never just a ceiling leak. It’s a warning sign that something behind the scenes isn’t right—and it’s usually related to your roofing system, gutters, or even attic ventilation. Common causes include: Damaged or missing shingles Improper roof installation Clogged or overflowing gutters Worn flashing or cracked vent boots Ice dams (in colder climates) Poor attic insulation or ventilation Regardless of the cause, the longer you wait, the more damage can occur to your ceiling, walls, insulation, and even your foundation. Signs of a Ceiling Leak Even if you haven’t noticed a full-on drip, your ceiling might be warning you that water is getting in. Watch for: Yellow or brown discoloration on the ceiling Bubbling or peeling paint Sagging drywall Musty smells or signs of mold Water stains that seem to grow over time These small signs can lead to big headaches—like mold growth, structural rot, and ruined insulation—if not handled quickly. What to Do if You Spot a Ceiling Leak If you see any of the signs above, don’t panic—but do act fast. Here’s your action plan: 1. Contain the water – Place a bucket under any active drips to prevent floor damage. 2. Protect your belongings – Move furniture, electronics, or anything valuable out of the way. 3. Call Allstate Exteriors – Our team will inspect your roof, attic, and exterior to find the *true source* of the leak—not just patch it up temporarily. 4. Get a detailed, free estimate – We’ll walk you through exactly what needs fixed, why, and how we can prevent future issues. Why Choose Allstate Exteriors? With over 20 years of experience in roofing, siding, and gutter systems, Allstate Exteriors is your trusted partner when your home’s been compromised. We're family-owned and operated, and we treat every home like it’s our own. We offer: ✅ Honest inspections ✅ Fast, professional repairs ✅ Owens Corning Platinum Preferred quality ✅ Insurance claim assistance ✅ Long-lasting peace of mind From small repairs to full roof replacements , we’re here to protect your home—and everything inside it. If you’ve noticed discoloration, drips, or water damage in your ceiling, now is the time to act. A ceiling leak might feel like a small inconvenience today, but it can lead to thousands of dollars in damage if left untreated. 📍 Serving Ohio and Florida homes with expert care and craftsmanship. Call us or request an estimate online—we’ll be there before the next drop falls.
July 2, 2025
Why That “Too Good to Be True” Price Might Be Exactly That From Allstate Exteriors | Roofing Experts You Can Count On in Florida & Ohio We get it — shopping for a new roof isn’t exactly fun. And when you're staring down a stack of quotes, one of them usually jumps out: 💥 A super low price. Maybe $5,000 for the full job. Sounds like a win, right? Not so fast. At Allstate Exteriors, we’ve had way too many homeowners call us a few years after going with the cheapest bid, saying, “I wish we would’ve known.” And honestly? We wish they would’ve too. So, let’s talk about what’s really going on behind those lowball roofing quotes — and how to protect your home from future headaches. What’s Usually Missing From a $5K Roof? If a quote comes in way lower than the others, there’s almost always a reason — and it usually means something essential got left out. Like: ❌ No Premium Underlayment Quality roofs need a protective barrier under the shingles. Many cheap quotes skip the synthetic underlayment or ice & water shield altogether — opening the door for future leaks. ❌ Old Flashing Gets Reused Flashing is what seals areas around chimneys, vents, and valleys. When it’s reused instead of replaced, it can let water in behind the scenes. ❌ Ventilation? What Ventilation? Proper attic airflow is critical to a roof’s lifespan. A lot of budget contractors won’t even check your vents, let alone upgrade them — which can cause mold, heat damage, and early shingle failure. ❌ Cover-Ups Instead of Tear-Offs Some roofers just install new shingles over the old ones to save time and labor. It’s faster, cheaper, and totally voids most manufacturer warranties. No thanks. ❌ Questionable Crews We’ve seen some shockingly low quotes come from crews with no insurance, no licensing, and no long-term plan to stick around. That’s not just a risk — it’s a liability. What That Cheap Roof Can Actually Cost You Let’s say you go with the $5,000 roof. It looks fine at first. But within a few years: The shingles are curling Water starts leaking in during storms You find soft spots in the decking The original roofer? Gone. No warranty. No support . Now you're looking at a $15,000 tear-off and redo — on top of the original cost. That “cheap” roof just got very expensive. What a Quality Roofing Quote Should Actually Include At Allstate Exteriors, we don’t cut corners to win bids. We build roofs that last — and we’re transparent about everything included. When you get a quote from us, here’s what’s part of the package: ✔️ Full tear-off (no cover-ups!) ✔️ Ice & water shield in all the right places ✔️ Premium synthetic underlayment ✔️ Upgraded ventilation and intake systems ✔️ Brand new flashing and drip edge ✔️ Manufacturer-compliant install (to keep your warranty valid) ✔️ Our 2-year workmanship warranty We’re not here to be the cheapest. We’re here to be the most trusted. Smart Questions to Ask Any Roofer Before You Hire Whether you go with us or not, here’s what you should always ask: What underlayment are you using? Will the old roof be torn off or shingled over? Are you upgrading attic ventilation? Will all flashing and drip edge be replaced? What kind of warranty comes with the work? If they hesitate, dodge, or brush you off — trust your gut. Final Thought: Pay Now or Pay Later A new roof is a big investment — and it should be one you only have to make once. A bargain quote might feel good today… until the leaks, the rot, and the bills start adding up. So take a breath. Ask the right questions. And choose a roofing partner who’s in it with you for the long haul. 📞 Schedule your free roof inspection with Allstate Exteriors today — and let’s build something that lasts.