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.
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Roof replacement is not a one-size-fits-all project; your specific location will often present a number of unique challenges or considerations. For example, Sterling Heights homeowners will want to be mindful of the following:
Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about these issues when you rely on the pros at Schoenherr Roofing. We regularly provide roofing services for your Sterling Heights neighbors, so we can help you navigate the unique challenges the city presents.
We didn't pick Sterling Heights off a map. Our office sits at 42850 Schoenherr Rd, on the very road the company is named after, so when we say we're local, we mean it about as literally as a roofer can. Crews roll out of a shop that's already inside the city, and that changes how a roofing project feels from the first phone call. Estimates get scheduled fast, trucks reach your subdivision in minutes instead of after an hour on the highway, and if a finished job needs a second look, we're a short drive away rather than a scheduling headache. A roofer who works out of your own city has every reason to get the job right the first time.
Sterling Heights spent most of its history as farmland. Until the 1950s it was Sterling Township, known for rhubarb and produce grown for Detroit markets. Then the auto plants arrived, workers followed them north, and the old farms were sold off and platted into subdivisions almost all at once. The city incorporated in 1968, and by then whole neighborhoods of brick ranches and colonials were rising on former cropland, with Lakeside Mall following in 1976 as the growth kept spreading.
That building boom is written into the rooftops today. When a subdivision goes up over just a few years, its roofs get installed within a few years of each other too, and they reach the end of their service life on that same shared timeline. Plenty of the Sterling Heights homes built through the 1960s and 1970s are now on their second or third roof, and streets that were shingled together tend to need attention together.
Sitting in Macomb County just north of Detroit, Sterling Heights takes the full swing of Michigan seasons. Winter brings snow load and the freeze-thaw cycle that lifts shingles and cracks flashing, while the flat, open layout of much of the city leaves roofs exposed to straight-line winds and the hail that rolls through the area most summers. On the ranch and colonial homes that fill these subdivisions, the trouble tends to start in the same spots: three-tab shingles shedding granules, aging flashing around chimneys and vents, and valleys where runoff concentrates.
Because so many of these homes share a builder-grade origin, we see the same failure patterns repeat block to block. Catching them early, with proper attic ventilation, fresh underlayment, and flashing brought up to current standards, is what keeps a small repair from turning into rotted decking and stained ceilings. We also handle the Sterling Heights and Macomb County permitting, so the tear-off, inspections, and code details stay our job instead of yours.
Working out of a Sterling Heights office means our crews pass finished jobs every day and answer to neighbors they'll run into at the store. In a city this size, word travels, and a roof that fails a winter later is the kind of reputation a local company simply can't afford. That accountability is the quiet advantage of hiring the roofer whose name is already on the street sign.
Homeowners often wonder when it’s time to replace their roof. Here are some key signs it may be time for an upgrade:
Shingles that are curled, cracked, deteriorating, or missing
Water stains on ceilings or interior walls
Moss, mold, or algae growth on the roof
A roof that’s over 20 years old
Visible storm damage or other external damage
Building a new home or planning an addition?
A new roof installation is essential for new constructions or expansions. It offers protection from moisture and the elements, and when installed by professionals, ensures a durable, long-lasting roofing system.
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, trust us for expert installation and replacement services built for long-lasting performance. With over 30 years of experience in the community, we are committed to providing craftsmanship you can rely on. Our team specializes in:
Asphalt composite shingle roofing
Durable, long-lasting metal roofing
Rolled roofing, ideal for low-slope sheds and garages
Every roofing project begins with a detailed inspection. This essential step helps us identify any existing damage, uncover hidden issues early, and develop the best plan tailored to your specific needs.
New Construction: Installing a roof on a newly built home or structure.
Major Renovations: Making significant updates to an existing property that require a full roof installation.
This service becomes necessary when your existing 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 adequate protection.
Visible Damage: Missing shingles, significant leaks, or sagging areas may indicate serious structural issues beneath.
Frequent Repairs: If you’re constantly repairing your roof, a full replacement could be a more practical and cost-effective long-term solution.
Every roof is unique, which means that the prices associated with roof installation and replacement vary.
However, Sterling Heights homeowners will usually pay about $4.50 to $9.00 per square foot, for a total cost of between $8,000 and $20,000 for a new asphalt shingle roof. Metal roofs, on the other hand, are more expensive, with prices typically ranging from about $18,000 to $50,000 or more.
Material selection aside, there are a number of factors that’ll help determine the total cost of your new roof, including:
Contact us now to discuss your roofing needs!
Choosing Schoenherr Roofing for your roof replacement is an investment in durable protection and peace of mind. Our skilled team ensures that your new roof enhances your home’s curb appeal while providing a robust defense against the elements for 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 Sterling Heights’ trusted roofing expert. Homeowners rely on us for:
Fully licensed and insured roofing professionals
Transparent, 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 harsh the local weather can be on your roof. With years of hands-on experience, we’re well-equipped to tackle the unique challenges Michigan homeowners face year-round.
From heavy snow and ice in the winter to strong spring winds and intense summer heat, each season places stress on your roofing system. That’s why we offer solutions built to withstand it all—keeping your home safe and secure, no matter the conditions.
When you choose Schoenherr Roofing, you’re selecting expert service and tailored solutions designed to meet Michigan’s climate and your home’s specific needs.
At Schoenherr Roofing, we understand that lasting results begin with high-quality materials. That’s why we select trusted brands known for their strength and reliability—designed to endure Romeo’s unpredictable weather year-round.
But quality materials alone aren’t enough. We also employ advanced tools and technology—such as precision nailers and modern leak detection systems—to ensure every detail is executed flawlessly. This enables our team to work efficiently while upholding exceptional craftsmanship.
By pairing durable materials with state-of-the-art equipment, we provide roofs that are built to last, boosting 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 in-depth knowledge of roofing systems. We ensure our crew stays up-to-date with the latest installation techniques and safety standards.
Our commitment to ongoing training guarantees you’ll receive reliable, high-quality service—whether it’s a minor repair or a full roof replacement.
When you choose Schoenherr Roofing, you’re selecting a team renowned for expert craftsmanship, attention to detail, and dependable service.
Both roof installation and roof replacement result in a new roof, but the process, costs, and considerations differ.
Roof Installation:
Ideal for new construction or major renovations
Offers more flexibility in selecting materials and design
No existing roof to remove, making the process quicker and cleaner
Roof Replacement:
Involves removing the old roof before installing the new one
May require structural upgrades or adjustments to meet building codes
Can improve energy efficiency and boost your home’s value
Bottom Line:
If you’re building a new home or adding to your current one, roof installation is the best choice. If your roof is too old or damaged to repair, a full replacement provides the protection and performance your home needs.
Several factors impact the cost of roof installation or repair. One of the key considerations is the type of roofing material you select. Affordable options, like asphalt shingles, tend to be less expensive, while premium materials, such as slate or metal, can considerably raise the overall cost.
The complexity of the project also influences pricing. Roofs with steep slopes, multiple layers, or intricate designs typically require more time, specialized tools, and skilled labor, which can increase labor costs. Furthermore, roofs that are hard to access may demand additional time and effort, further impacting the total price.
By understanding these factors, homeowners can make informed and cost-effective decisions that align with both their immediate needs and long-term goals.
Roof Size:
Larger roofs require more materials, such as shingles, underlayment, and flashing. A bigger surface area also leads to increased labor time, which raises the total cost of the project.
Roofing Material Options:
Asphalt Shingles: A cost-effective and widely used option that fits most homeowners’ budgets.
Slate or Tile: While these materials come with a higher upfront cost, they offer exceptional durability and long-term performance.
Roof Complexity:
Roofs with steep slopes, multiple angles, dormers, or other intricate features require more time and specialized labor. The more complex the design, the higher the costs for both materials and labor.
Understanding the costs of these materials and the impact of roof size and complexity helps homeowners make informed decisions based on their specific needs and budget.
In Sterling Heights, Michigan, the seasons have a significant impact on 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 weather-related delays, both costs and timelines can increase.
Spring and fall are typically the best times to schedule roofing work. Milder temperatures and more predictable weather conditions allow crews to work safely and efficiently. These seasons also tend to offer better availability and more competitive pricing for homeowners.
By scheduling your roofing project around Michigan’s seasonal changes, you can reduce costs, avoid delays, and ensure the work is completed efficiently and on time.
Choosing the right roofing service—whether it’s a full installation or a simple repair—can make all the difference. Not only does it protect your home, but it can also save you money in the long run. Addressing minor issues early helps prevent costly damage or the need for a full replacement down the road.
A well-maintained roof helps prevent leaks, mold, and damage from aging or worn materials. While DIY fixes might seem like a quick solution, hiring a professional ensures the job is done properly and safely from the start.
Your roof is vital to your home’s protection and overall value. If you’re unsure about its condition, contact Schoenherr Roofing for a free inspection and expert advice you can count on.
Yes. Our office is at 42850 Schoenherr Rd, Sterling Heights, MI 48313, on the same road the company shares its name with, and you can reach it at (248) 639-4888. Because our crews work out of the city itself, we schedule estimates quickly, reach local subdivisions without a highway drive, and stay close by for any follow-up after the roof is finished.
It often does. Many Sterling Heights neighborhoods were developed over just a few years in the 1960s and 1970s, so the roofs went on within a short window of each other and now age out on a similar timeline. If your neighbors are replacing roofs, a builder-grade roof from the same era is worth having inspected, even if it still looks fine from the ground.
On the brick ranches and colonials that fill the city’s subdivisions, we most often see worn three-tab shingles losing granules, failing flashing around chimneys and vents, and leaks in the valleys where runoff concentrates. The underlayment and attic ventilation from the original build are frequently outdated too, which is why a full inspection matters before deciding between a repair and a replacement.
Yes. For roof replacements in Sterling Heights we pull the required permits through the city and coordinate any inspections as part of the project, so the paperwork and code compliance are handled for you. Michigan’s residential code also limits a roof to two layers of shingles, so if a home already has two, we plan for a full tear-off.
Michigan’s residential code allows a maximum of two layers of roofing on a home. If your Sterling Heights roof already carries two layers, code requires a complete tear-off down to the decking before a new roof goes on, rather than adding a third layer over the top. A tear-off also lets us inspect and repair the decking, which is the right approach on most homes anyway.
Spring and fall are usually ideal in Sterling Heights, with milder temperatures and steadier weather that let shingles seal properly and crews work efficiently. Roofing continues through summer and into winter when needed, and emergency repairs happen year-round, but planning a full replacement for the shoulder seasons tends to mean smoother scheduling.
You will need a permit from the Sterling Heights Building Department for your roof replacement. Unlike some other jurisdictions, this is even necessary for roof-over projects, in which the existing roof is left in place. Additionally, it’s important to note that Sterling Heights only allows for two roofing layers to be installed; if you’ve already had a roof-over project completed before, you’ll need to have both layers torn off before the new roof can be installed.
Fortunately, homeowners who partner with Schoenherr Roofing don’t have to worry about obtaining a permit — we’ll handle the entire process for you. Contact us now to get started.
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!
