Which path are you on?
The first question on any roof replacement is not which shingle, but who pays. A roof that is old, curling and losing granules from age is a maintenance item — insurance generally does not pay for wear and tear. A roof that was in decent shape until hail or wind damaged it may be a covered loss. Many roofs fall somewhere in between, which is why an honest inspection with photos comes first.
Path 1: Insurance-paid replacement after a storm
- Inspection. A roofer inspects and documents the damage with photos and a written report.
- Report the claim. You contact your insurance company. Many policies have deadlines for reporting storm damage, so do not wait.
- Adjuster visit. The insurer sends an adjuster. Your roofer can meet the adjuster on the roof to review damage.
- Scope and estimate. The insurer issues an estimate of covered repairs or replacement.
- Supplements. If items were missed — code-required components, additional damaged areas — the roofer may submit documentation for review.
- Replacement. The roof is installed, and final paperwork goes to the insurer.
See our storm damage page and our hail inspection guide.
Your deductible is your responsibility
On an insurance claim, the homeowner pays the deductible. Offers to “cover” or “waive” your deductible are a red flag and are illegal in Missouri and Illinois. Our article on deductible waivers explains why.
How depreciation and payments often work
Many policies pay a claim in stages. Some pay actual cash value first, which accounts for the roof’s age, and release the remaining replacement cost after the work is completed. Others pay differently, and some older roofs are covered only at actual cash value. Read your policy or ask your agent how your roof coverage works before the adjuster visits.
Path 2: Out-of-pocket replacement for an aging roof
When a roof has reached the end of its life without storm damage, you pay directly. The benefit is control: you choose the timing, the shingle line, the color and any upgrades such as better ventilation, impact-rated shingles or new gutters, without an adjuster’s scope limiting the project. Get written estimates, compare them line by line, and schedule when it works for you.
Financing a roof replacement
Many homeowners finance an out-of-pocket roof. Options can include contractor-offered financing programs, home equity lines of credit, or personal loans. Compare interest rates, terms and any promotional periods carefully. Ask your roofer what financing is available, and visit our financing page for current options.
Upgrades worth considering either way
- Impact-rated shingles where hail is common; some insurers offer premium credits.
- Improved attic ventilation to extend shingle life and reduce winter condensation.
- Full ice and water shield in valleys and at eaves.
- New gutters sized for the roof’s runoff.
- A manufacturer system warranty through a certified contractor.
On an insurance claim, upgrades beyond the insured scope are paid by the homeowner.
Timelines compared
Out-of-pocket replacements often go from inspection to install within a few weeks, depending on the season. Insurance replacements add steps — the claim, the adjuster visit, the estimate, sometimes supplements — and after a big regional storm, insurers and roofers are both busy. Starting quickly with documentation is the best way to keep an insurance project moving.
Questions to ask a roofer near you
- Is my roof damaged by a storm, or simply worn out?
- Will you document the damage and meet my adjuster?
- What does your estimate include, line by line?
- What financing options are available?
- Which warranties come with the roof?
Roof replacement from John Beal Roofing
We handle both paths every day, from local offices across Missouri, Illinois, Indiana and western Kentucky. We have been family-run since 1947, are an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor and CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster, offer system warranties, and back every roof with a limited lifetime workmanship warranty. Learn about the process in roof replacement, step by step, or call 1-800-564-6232 any hour.
Frequently asked questions
Will insurance pay for my roof replacement?
Insurance may pay when a covered event like hail or wind damaged the roof. It generally does not pay for normal wear and age.
Can a roofer pay my insurance deductible?
No. Waiving or covering a deductible is illegal in Missouri and Illinois, and the homeowner is responsible for it.
Can I upgrade my shingles on an insurance claim?
Yes, but the cost of upgrades beyond the insured scope is paid by the homeowner.
How can I finance a roof replacement?
Options can include contractor financing programs, home equity lines of credit and personal loans. Compare rates and terms carefully.
Which is faster, insurance or out-of-pocket replacement?
Out-of-pocket replacements are usually faster because they skip the claim, adjuster and estimate steps.