Roofing Knowledge Base
Hail Damage Roof Inspection Guide for Michigan Homeowners
Michigan is no stranger to hail. Just in this past year, from June 2025 to June 2026, HailTrace reported over 69 hail events in Michigan.
Skip to content 
Our Rochester office at 425 Walnut Boulevard is about 25 miles south of Ortonville, a drive of a little over half an hour up M-24 and west on M-15. We work across northern Oakland County week in and week out, so a rural village like Ortonville is well inside the ground we cover.
That regular presence is what matters for you. We come out for free estimates, show up when we say we will, and stand behind the work with easy follow-up. Being farther north than a subdivision in town doesn't put Ortonville out of reach for a roof done right. We'll give you a straight estimate and a clear plan, same as any job closer to town.
Ortonville was founded in 1848 by Amos Orton, who dammed Kearsley Creek to power his gristmill. The town was platted in 1866 and incorporated as a village in 1902, and the Old Mill still stands on Mill Street as a museum of that history.
For roofing, the setting tells the story. Ortonville is genuinely rural and heavily wooded, wrapped by the 5,400-acre Ortonville State Recreation Area of forested hills and fishing lakes. Homes here sit on wooded lots and near water, and many of the older houses around the village center carry steep roofs from the town's mill-era days. Larger rural properties bring outbuildings into the picture too: pole barns, detached garages, and sheds, all of which add roof surface and often low-slope sections that a house roof doesn't have.
Tree cover is the big one. Constant shade keeps north-facing slopes damp enough to grow moss and rot the surface, storms drop limbs onto the roof, and leaves pack into valleys and gutters until water backs up. Homes along Kearsley Creek and the lakes take extra humidity and wind off the open water. Out on the rural lots, wind gets a clean run at aging shingles and lifts them. On the older village homes, worn flashing and tired decking under steep roofs are the usual culprits behind a leak.
We handle all of it the right way. That means a full tear-off and decking inspection when it's warranted, solid attic ventilation, ice-and-water shield along the eaves and valleys, and algae-resistant shingles for the shaded slopes. For the barns and garages, we use the proper low-slope membrane instead of forcing shingles where they won't shed water. We finish by cleaning up every nail and scrap, which matters even more on rural lots where a stray nail can find a tractor tire or a pet.
We're up in northern Oakland County regularly, and we stand behind every roof we install. In a village of around 1,400 people, a contractor's name gets around fast, so we treat each Ortonville job like the reference it becomes. Out here, one well-built roof turns into the next three jobs down the road, and that suits us fine. It's the same standard we've held across more than 6,200 Michigan roofs since 1995.
Homeowners often wonder when it’s time to replace their roof. Here are a few key signs that it may be time for an upgrade:
Shingles that are curled, cracked, crumbling, or missing
Water stains on interior walls or ceilings
Moss, mold, or algae growing on the roof surface
A roof that’s over 20 years old
Visible damage from severe weather or storms
Building a new home or planning an addition?
If you’re looking for a reliable team for roof installation or replacement, contact Schoenherr Roofing. We start with a free, no-obligation consultation to figure out if your home needs a full replacement or just some repairs.
When it’s time for a new roof, you can count on us for expert installation and replacement services designed for long-lasting performance. With over 30 years of experience in the community, we’re committed to delivering craftsmanship you can trust. Our team installs:
Asphalt composite shingle roofing
Durable, long-lasting metal roofing
Rolled roofing, ideal for low-slope sheds and garages
Every roofing project begins with a comprehensive inspection. This important step allows us to identify any existing damage, uncover hidden issues early, and create the best plan tailored to your needs.
New Construction: Installing a roof on a brand-new home or structure.
Major Renovations: Making significant updates to an existing property that require a full roof installation.
This service becomes necessary when your current roof is beyond repair or has reached the end of its useful life. Here are some clear signs that a full roof replacement may be the best option:
Aging Roof: If your roof is over 20 years old, the materials may be deteriorating and no longer providing proper protection.
Visible Damage: Missing shingles, significant leaks, or sagging areas often signal serious structural issues beneath.
Frequent Repairs: If you’re constantly repairing your roof, a full replacement could be a more cost-effective and long-term solution.
Choosing Schoenherr Roofing for your roof replacement is an investment in long-lasting protection and peace of mind. Our experienced team ensures your new roof not only boosts your home’s curb appeal but also offers a strong, reliable defense against the elements for many years to come.
Customized solutions tailored to fit your budget and specific roofing needs.
Honest, transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
Premium materials chosen to enhance and elevate your home’s curb appeal.
Since 1995, Schoenherr Roofing has been Ortonville’s trusted roofing expert. Homeowners rely on us for:
Fully licensed and insured roofing professionals
Honest, upfront pricing with no hidden fees
Exceptional craftsmanship on every project
Factory-trained and certified installers
A strong commitment to our local community, built on trust and integrity
As a Michigan-based company, we understand how tough the local weather can be on your roof. With years of hands-on experience, we’re fully equipped to handle the unique challenges Michigan homeowners face throughout the year.
From heavy snow and ice in the winter to strong spring winds and intense summer heat, each season puts stress on your roofing system. That’s why we offer solutions designed to withstand it all—keeping your home safe and secure, no matter the weather.
When you choose Schoenherr Roofing, you’re selecting expert service and custom solutions designed to meet Michigan’s climate and your home’s specific needs.
At Schoenherr Roofing, we understand that lasting results start with top-quality materials. That’s why we choose trusted brands known for their strength and reliability—engineered to withstand Romeo’s unpredictable weather throughout the year.
However, quality materials alone aren’t enough. We also use advanced tools and technology—such as precision nailers and modern leak detection systems—to ensure every detail is completed accurately. This allows our team to work efficiently while maintaining superior craftsmanship.
By combining durable materials with cutting-edge equipment, we deliver roofs that are built to last, enhancing both the value and curb appeal of your home.
Your roof is a significant investment, and trusting it to unqualified workers can lead to costly issues down the road. At Schoenherr Roofing, every team member is a trained professional with extensive expertise in roofing systems. We make sure our crew stays up to date with the latest installation methods and safety standards.
Our commitment to ongoing training ensures you’ll receive reliable, high-quality service—whether it’s a small repair or a full roof replacement.
When you choose Schoenherr Roofing, you’re selecting a team known for expert craftsmanship, attention to detail, and dependable service.
Both roof installation and roof replacement result in a new roof, but the process, cost, and considerations differ.
Roof Installation:
Ideal for new construction or major renovations
Offers greater flexibility in choosing materials and design
No existing roof to remove, making the process quicker and cleaner
Roof Replacement:
Involves removing the existing roof before installing the new one
May require structural upgrades or updates to meet building codes
Can improve energy efficiency and increase your home’s value
Bottom Line:
If you’re building a new home or adding on, roof installation is the best option. If your current roof is too old or damaged to repair, a full replacement provides the protection and performance your home needs.
Several key factors affect the cost of a roof installation or repair. One of the most significant is the type of roofing material you choose—affordable options like asphalt shingles are more budget-friendly, while premium materials such as slate or metal can significantly raise the total cost.
The complexity of the project also influences pricing. Roofs with steep slopes, multiple layers, or intricate architectural features typically require more time, specialized tools, and skilled labor, which increases labor costs. Additionally, roofs that are difficult to access may require extra time and effort, further impacting the overall price.
By understanding these factors, homeowners can make informed, cost-effective decisions that align with their needs and long-term goals.
Roofing Material Choices:
Asphalt shingles: A cost-effective and widely used option that works for most homeowners.
Slate or tile: Higher upfront cost but highly durable and long-lasting.
Understanding the cost of each material helps homeowners make an informed choice based on their needs and budget.
Roof Size:
Larger roofs require more materials, such as shingles, underlayment, and flashing.
A larger surface area also means more labor time, increasing the overall project cost.
Roof Complexity:
Roofs with steep slopes, multiple angles, dormers, or intricate features require additional time and skilled labor.
The more complex the design, the higher the costs for both materials and labor.
In Ortonville, Michigan, the seasons significantly affect the timing and efficiency of roofing projects. Winter brings snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, making roofing unsafe or even impossible. With fewer contractors available and delays caused by weather, both costs and timelines can increase.
Spring and fall are typically the best times to schedule roofing work. With milder temperatures and more predictable weather, crews can work safely and efficiently. These seasons also tend to offer better availability and more competitive pricing for homeowners.
By planning your roofing project around Michigan’s seasonal changes, you can reduce costs, avoid delays, and ensure the work is completed smoothly and on time.
Choosing the right roofing service—whether it’s a full installation or a simple repair—can make a significant difference. It not only protects your home but can save you money over time. Addressing small issues early on helps prevent costly damage or the need for a full replacement later.
A well-maintained roof prevents leaks, mold, and damage from aging or worn materials. While DIY fixes may seem like a quick solution, hiring a professional ensures the job is done correctly and safely from the start.
Your roof plays a vital role in your home’s protection and overall value. If you’re unsure about its condition, contact Schoenherr Roofing for a free inspection and trusted expert advice.
Not at all. Our Rochester office is about 25 miles south of Ortonville, roughly a 35-minute drive up M-24 and west on M-15, and we cover northern Oakland County regularly. You can reach us at (248) 720-5847. Being a rural village does not put Ortonville out of range for a free estimate, a full roof replacement, or a warranty visit down the road.
Ortonville sits among the forested hills of the Ortonville State Recreation Area, and homes on wooded lots deal with constant shade, falling limbs, and leaves piling in the valleys. The shade keeps north slopes damp enough to grow moss and rot the surface over time. We clean and treat that growth, keep valleys and gutters clear, and can install algae-resistant shingles and reinforced flashing to stand up to the conditions.
Yes. Rural Ortonville properties often have pole barns, detached garages, and other outbuildings with large or low-slope roofs that need different materials than a steep house roof. We handle those alongside the main house, matching shingles where it makes sense and using the right low-slope membrane where a shingled roof would not shed water properly.
Yes. The homes around Ortonville’s historic Mill Street district date back to the village’s mill-town days and carry older, steeper rooflines. We choose shingle profiles and colors that suit their age and detail the valleys, dormers, and flashing carefully, so the new roof protects the home and keeps the character that fits the old village center.
Yes. Homes along Kearsley Creek and the lakes around Ortonville live with extra humidity and wind off the open water, which wears shingles and pushes rain under flashing. We build these roofs to handle the moisture, with wind-rated shingles, sealed flashing, and ice-and-water shield along the vulnerable edges and valleys.
Yes. A full roof replacement in Ortonville and the surrounding Brandon Township requires a building permit, and we pull it through the local building department as part of the job. Handling the permit means your roof is inspected and up to code, which protects you now and when it comes time to sell.
Michigan is no stranger to hail. Just in this past year, from June 2025 to June 2026, HailTrace reported over 69 hail events in Michigan.
Calling your insurance company immediately after a storm is a common and understandable reaction, but it might not always be the most helpful first step.
Michigan weather can change on a dime. One minute, you’re enjoying a quiet summer afternoon. The next, hail is pelting your roof and wind is
Feel free to leave your contact information on our online form. A consultation is always free, and it’s the first step towards finding an expert roofing solution from Schoenherr!
