Top 10 Questions About Installing A New Roof On Your House

You’re Not Buying a Roof—You’re Hiring a Way of Thinking

In the Raleigh area, spring means pollen as thick as sawdust, and by early summer, the thunderstorms start testing whatever your house is made of. Homeowners start asking the usual:
Is it time to replace the roof?
What’s the cost?
Will a new roof actually increase my home’s value?

But under those questions is something deeper—something we hear every day at Summit Roofing of NC:
Can I trust someone to do the job right?

We think that’s the real question. And it’s one that deserves better answers than you’ll get from a postcard mailer or a door-to-door sales pitch.

We’ve built this company on the idea that roofing is craft, not commodity. You deserve a roof that does more than meet code—you deserve one that holds up, looks good, and reflects a way of working rooted in care, not shortcuts.

Here’s What You’ll Learn in This Blog:

• Whether a new roof increases your home’s value—and by how much
• What kind of return you can expect on your investment
• Ten smart questions to ask before hiring a roofer
• What to know about materials, warranties, timelines, and prep

If you’re looking for a no-pressure inspection backed by honest work, Summit Roofing of NC can help.

Why Roof Replacement Matters in Raleigh: Weather, Codes & Value

Your roof isn’t just there to look nice. It’s the boundary between you and every kind of weather the Triangle throws at you: high winds, hurricanes, hailstorms, and summer heat that curls asphalt like old paper.

A new roof may not be exciting in the way a new kitchen is. But it’s a decision that carries real weight—especially when you’re trying to protect your family or preparing to sell your home.

There’s also the matter of local codes, regional climate, and materials that can hold up over time. That’s where working with a contractor who lives and works here—not a fly-in crew—really makes the difference.

Before You Start: What to Know About Roof Replacement

1. Understand the Cost

In Raleigh, a quality architectural shingle roof starts at around $20,000. Premium options like metal can range from $35,000 to $50,000. Be wary of quotes that sound too good to be true—they usually are.

2. Permits Are Required

Wake County and most Triangle municipalities require permits for residential roof replacement. We take care of that process for you.

3. Not All Materials Are Equal

Asphalt shingles are cost-effective but vary widely in quality. Metal roofing systems last longer and offer better storm protection but come at a higher upfront cost.

4. Check for Insurance Eligibility

If your roof was damaged by hail or high winds, your insurance may cover repairs or a full replacement. We’re storm damage and insurance claim specialists—and we won’t push you into a claim that doesn’t make sense.

Top 10 Roofing Questions—Answered by Professionals

1. Does a new roof increase home value?

Yes, a new roof increases home value by improving curb appeal, reducing buyer objections, and showing that your property has been responsibly maintained.

2. How much value does a new roof really add?

A new roof can add between $10,000 and $15,000 in value to your home, depending on its size, location, and materials. In competitive North Carolina markets like Raleigh or Cary, that number can be even higher.

3. What’s the return on investment for a new roof?

The return on investment (ROI) for a roof replacement in the Greater Triangle Area typically falls between 60 and 70 percent. Leaving a failing roof in place can lower your home's market value and reduce buyer interest.

4. How long does a roof replacement usually take?

A typical roof replacement takes one to two days to complete, weather permitting. More complex or larger roofs may require additional time.

5. What should I ask a roofing contractor before hiring them?

Before hiring a roofer, you should ask if they’re licensed and insured in North Carolina, what materials they recommend and why, what’s covered under their warranty, and whether their installation team is local and full-time.

6. Do I need to be home during the roof installation?

You do not need to be home during roof installation, but it’s helpful to be available by phone in case the crew needs to clarify any details.

7. How can I tell if I need a full roof replacement or just a repair?

You can determine whether you need a full roof replacement or just a repair by scheduling a professional inspection. At Summit Roofing of NC, we provide honest, pressure-free evaluations so you can make the right decision for your home.

8. What roofing material lasts the longest?

Metal Roofing—especially standing seam systems—lasts the longest, with a potential lifespan of 40 to 70 years. High-quality architectural shingles typically last 25 to 35 years in our climate.

9. Are roof warranties really worth it?

Roof warranties are worth it when they’re backed by a contractor who honors them. We provide strong manufacturer and workmanship warranties and stand behind every roof we install.

10. How should I prepare for roof installation day?

To prepare for roof installation, move vehicles out of the driveway, secure attic items, and notify nearby neighbors about potential noise. Our team handles the rest, including thorough clean-up after the job.

A Closer Look at Materials, Warranties, and ROI in the Triangle

If you're weighing which roofing system to invest in, it helps to compare the real costs, warranties, and lifespan side by side. Here's how the most common options perform in the Greater Triangle Area.

Standard Asphalt Shingles

Standard asphalt shingles are the most common and cost-effective option for Raleigh homeowners.

• Estimated Cost: ~$20,000
• Warranty: Lifetime
• Expected Lifespan: 25 to 30 years

These are a great fit for budget-conscious homeowners who still want durability and curb appeal.

Premium Architectural Shingles

Architectural shingles offer added thickness, wind resistance, and longer lifespan.

• Estimated Cost: ~$35,000
• Warranty: Lifetime
• Expected Lifespan: 30 to 35 years

If you want high performance without jumping to metal, this is the sweet spot.

Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Standing seam systems are top-tier for longevity and energy efficiency.

• Estimated Cost: ~$50,000
• Warranty: 40 Years
• Expected Lifespan: 40 to 70 years

Metal roofs hold up exceptionally well in the Triangle’s extreme weather and can significantly reduce long-term maintenance costs.

Exposed Fastener Metal Roofs

A more affordable alternative to standing seam with a slightly shorter lifespan.

• Estimated Cost: ~$35,000
• Warranty: 20 Years
• Expected Lifespan: 30 to 40 years

They offer solid protection, but the exposed fasteners can wear faster over time.

Why This Matters

Our region’s storms and temperature swings demand materials that can take a hit. What looks good on paper doesn’t always hold up in practice. That’s why we install roofing systems we’d trust on our own homes.

We don’t oversell. We explain your options clearly, offer flexible roof financing, and back our work with strong warranties—because we plan to be here if something goes wrong down the road.

Additional Roofing Questions from Homeowners in the Raleigh Area

How long should a roof last in this region?

A roof in the Raleigh area should last between 25 and 30 years when it’s installed with quality materials and proper technique. Metal roofing systems can last significantly longer—up to 70 years or more.

Is hail damage usually covered by insurance?

Hail damage is usually covered by homeowners insurance if it’s recent, visible, and properly documented. At Summit Roofing of NC, we help homeowners inspect, report, and work with their insurance carriers throughout the claims process.

Is metal roofing worth the extra money in North Carolina?

Metal roofing is worth the higher upfront cost in North Carolina due to its extended lifespan, strong resistance to storm damage, and lower long-term maintenance needs.

Do I need a permit to replace my roof in Raleigh or Wake County?

Yes, you do need a permit to replace your roof in Raleigh or elsewhere in Wake County. Our team handles all permitting and code compliance so you don’t have to worry about the paperwork.

Do you offer financing for roof replacements?

Yes, Summit Roofing of NC offers financing options to make roof replacements more accessible. We’ll walk you through the available options so you can choose a plan that fits your budget.

How soon can Summit Roofing of NC start a roofing project?

Summit Roofing of NC can typically start your roofing project within one to two weeks after your inspection and signed agreement, depending on weather conditions and material availability.

Can Summit Roofing of NC help with insurance claims?

Yes, Summit Roofing of NC can help with insurance claims related to storm damage. We provide detailed inspections, documentation, and direct support to make sure your claim is properly handled.

How does Raleigh’s climate impact roof longevity or material choice?

Raleigh’s climate—with heat, humidity, hail, and hurricane potential—impacts how long a roof lasts and what materials are best. We often recommend architectural shingles or metal roofing systems for their proven durability in the Triangle’s weather.

You’re Not Just Buying a Roof. You’re Choosing Who You Trust.

Replacing your roof isn’t just a line item on a to-do list—it’s a decision that affects your home’s future. A good roof protects your investment. A bad one compromises it.

At Summit Roofing of NC, we take that seriously. Since 2018, we’ve built our name by doing the job right, respecting the homeowner, and cleaning up after ourselves—literally and figuratively.

We don’t promise to be the cheapest. We promise to be the team you don’t have to second-guess.

Schedule your free inspection today. No pressure. Just honest answers and quality work.

‍