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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Our Novi office at 43000 W Nine Mile Road is only about 4 miles from Walled Lake, a quick 10-minute drive north. Walled Lake sits right next door to Novi, so it's one of the easiest cities for our crews to reach.
That closeness is a real benefit to you. We come out for free estimates quickly, our crews arrive on time, and warranty or touch-up visits are simple to schedule. When a home this close to the water springs a leak, being just up the road means we can get there fast. In a lake community, a small leak caught early is the difference between a simple repair and a soaked ceiling.
Walled Lake takes its name from a curious natural feature, a wall of glacier-piled boulders along the shore that early settlers spotted back in 1825. For decades in the early 1900s, the city was Metro Detroit's most popular summer destination, home to the famous Walled Lake Amusement Park and dance pavilions that drew crowds from across the region until the late 1960s.
That resort history defines the housing. Many of the compact homes here began as summer cottages on small lakeside lots and have since been refurbished or rebuilt as year-round dwellings, packed close together around the 670-acre lake. It's a dense, walkable city with a lot of character, and the homes nearest the water face the toughest conditions. Because the lots are small and the homes sit close to the shore, even a modest cottage here lives with weather off the open water most of the year.
Homes on and near the lake take steady wind and moisture off the open water, which lifts and creases shingles and pushes rain under flashing. The converted cottages are the ones to watch: many carry undersized, aging, or patched roofs from their summer-home days that were never built for four Michigan seasons. The small, close-together lots leave little room to stage a tear-off, and freeze-thaw cycles drive ice dams along the eaves.
We build these roofs to handle the setting. That means a proper tear-off and honest decking inspection when it's warranted, wind-rated, well-sealed shingles, careful flashing at every edge and penetration, and ice-and-water shield along the vulnerable eaves and valleys. On an old cottage that's become a full-time home, we'll tell you honestly whether it needs a complete re-roof or a targeted repair, and we plan access carefully on the tight lots. We also look closely at the gutters, fascia, and soffit on lakeside homes, since the steady moisture tends to find the trim before it shows up anywhere else.
We've roofed Oakland County since 1995, and Walled Lake is right on our doorstep. Around a small lake community, a contractor's name travels fast, so we treat every job like the reference it becomes. It's the same standard behind more than 6,200 Michigan roofs, just up the road from your door. Repair or full replacement, we'll give you a straight read before you spend a dollar.
Homeowners often wonder when it’s time to replace their roof. Here are some key signs that 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 provides 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 designed for long-lasting performance. With over 30 years of experience in the community, we are dedicated to delivering 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 thorough inspection. This important step allows us to identify any existing damage, uncover hidden issues early, and create 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 continually repairing your roof, a full replacement could be a more practical and cost-effective long-term solution.
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 designed to fit your budget and specific roofing needs.
Honest, transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
Premium materials selected to enhance and elevate your home’s curb appeal.
Since 1995, Schoenherr Roofing has been Walled Lake’s trusted roofing expert. Homeowners count 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 tough the local weather can be on your roof. With years of hands-on experience, we’re fully prepared to tackle 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, every season takes a toll on your roofing system. That’s why we provide solutions that are designed to endure it all—ensuring your home remains safe and secure, no matter the weather.
When you choose Schoenherr Roofing, you’re selecting expert service and customized solutions tailored 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 problems in the future. At Schoenherr Roofing, every team member is a trained professional with extensive knowledge of roofing systems. We ensure our crew stays up to date with the latest installation methods and safety standards.
Our commitment to continuous training guarantees you’ll receive reliable, top-quality service—whether it’s a minor repair or a full roof replacement.
When you choose Schoenherr Roofing, you’re choosing 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, 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 influence the cost of roof installation or repair. One of the key considerations is the type of roofing material selected. Affordable options like asphalt shingles are generally more budget-friendly, while premium materials such as slate or metal can significantly increase the overall cost.
The complexity of the project also affects pricing. Roofs with steep slopes, multiple layers, or intricate designs require more time, specialized tools, and skilled labor, which increases both material and labor costs. Additionally, roofs that are hard to access may require more time and effort, further impacting the total price.
By understanding these factors, homeowners can make informed and cost-effective decisions that align with 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 demands more labor time, which increases the overall project cost.
Roofing Material Options:
Asphalt Shingles: A cost-effective and widely used option that fits within most homeowners’ budgets.
Slate or Tile: These materials have a higher upfront cost but provide exceptional durability and long-lasting performance.
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.
By understanding the costs related to materials, roof size, and complexity, homeowners can make well-informed decisions that align with their specific needs and budget.
In Walled Lake, 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 term. Addressing small issues early can prevent costly damage or the need for a full replacement down the line.
A well-maintained roof helps prevent leaks, mold, and damage from aging or deteriorating 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 is crucial to your home’s protection and overall value. If you’re unsure about its condition, reach out to Schoenherr Roofing for a free inspection and trusted expert advice.
Our Novi office at 43000 W Nine Mile Road is only about 4 miles from Walled Lake, a quick 10-minute drive north. You can reach us at (248) 270-7344. Walled Lake sits right next door to Novi, so it’s one of the easiest cities for our crews to reach.
Yes. Homes on and near Walled Lake take steady wind and moisture off the 670-acre lake, which lifts and creases shingles and pushes rain under flashing. We build these roofs with wind-rated, well-sealed shingles and careful flashing at every edge and penetration so the lakefront exposure doesn’t cut their life short.
Yes, and it’s a common job here. Many Walled Lake homes began as summer cottages from the city’s resort days, with roofs never built for Michigan winters that have often been patched over the years. We inspect one honestly and, when it’s time, give it a full re-roof with proper ventilation and ice-and-water protection built for four seasons.
Carefully. The old cottage lots around the lake are compact and tightly packed, so there isn’t much room to stage a tear-off. We plan access, protect your property and your neighbor’s, keep the site tidy, and run a thorough cleanup with magnetic nail sweeps so nothing is left behind on the ground or in the water’s edge.
It can. The steady humidity off the lake tends to find the wood first, so on lakeside homes we look closely at the fascia, soffit, and gutters along with the shingles. Catching soft or rotting trim early keeps a moisture problem from spreading into the roof structure.
Often, yes. Many of the older lakeside homes here have under-insulated, poorly ventilated attics that drive ice dams along the eaves, and exposed lakefront roofs see hard freeze-thaw swings. When we re-roof, we improve attic ventilation and run ice-and-water shield along the eaves and valleys to keep the melt-and-freeze cycle outside.
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!
