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Roofing and insurance questions, answered plainly.
The questions Chicagoland homeowners ask us most, from what happens after a storm to what ice and water shield actually does.
How a storm-damage claim typically works.
We are a roofing contractor, not a public adjuster. We document, estimate and do the work. You file. Your insurer decides.
Notice a problem
A few shingles in the yard after a wind storm, dents in soft metals after hail, a tree limb on the roof, or a stain on a ceiling. Any of these is reason enough to get it looked at.
We recommend calling us first. A free inspection documents the damage before anything is filed, so nothing is missed or disputed later. Coming in after a claim is already filed can add months to the process and reduce what the claim ultimately recovers.
We inspect the roof and exterior, show you photos or video of what we found, and walk you through what we found in person.
You file the claim with your insurance company. Our documentation supports it, and your insurer makes the coverage decision.
We document the damage with photos, meet the adjuster on the roof, submit supplements for anything the first scope missed, pull permits, and keep the paperwork moving so there's very little for you to do. We're a contractor, not a public adjuster: you file the claim and your insurer makes the coverage decision.
Once your insurer has made its decision, we go over the project with you: products, colors, upgrades and warranty options, all in writing before work is scheduled.
The crew finishes, cleans up, and we walk the roof and the grounds with you. You get your written warranty at the end.
Notice a problem
A few shingles in the yard after a wind storm, dents in soft metals after hail, a tree limb on the roof, or a stain on a ceiling. Any of these is reason enough to get it looked at.
Call ProCare before you call your insurance company
We recommend calling us first. A free inspection documents the damage before anything is filed, so nothing is missed or disputed later. Coming in after a claim is already filed can add months to the process and reduce what the claim ultimately recovers.
Documented inspection
We inspect the roof and exterior, show you photos or video of what we found, and walk you through what we found in person.
You decide whether to file
You file the claim with your insurance company. Our documentation supports it, and your insurer makes the coverage decision.
Adjuster visit
We document the damage with photos, meet the adjuster on the roof, submit supplements for anything the first scope missed, pull permits, and keep the paperwork moving so there's very little for you to do. We're a contractor, not a public adjuster: you file the claim and your insurer makes the coverage decision.
Scope, materials and warranty
Once your insurer has made its decision, we go over the project with you: products, colors, upgrades and warranty options, all in writing before work is scheduled.
Completion and walkthrough
The crew finishes, cleans up, and we walk the roof and the grounds with you. You get your written warranty at the end.
Everything else homeowners ask.
Do you do remodeling, or just roofs?+
Both. ProCare is a licensed general contractor. We handle interior remodels like kitchens, bathrooms and basements, decks and additions, and full exterior projects, along with roofing.
Can you fix the inside damage from a roof leak too?+
Yes. We repair the roof and the drywall, ceilings and paint the leak damaged, and work with your insurer on both when it's a covered claim.
What is my insurance company looking for after a hail storm?+
Usually prominent hail hits and other weather-related damage. Shingle granules block the sun's UV and protect the asphalt underneath; hail knocks granules loose, speeds up aging and can void manufacturer warranties. Hail damage rarely threatens the structure right away, but it leads to leaks if left alone, and many policies have time limits for weather claims. It's worth calling soon after a major storm.
Why are there granules in my gutters and on my driveway?+
Some granule loss is a normal part of a shingle roof weathering. Small hail, heavy rain, wind, snow, ice and foot traffic can all knock granules loose. A sudden increase after a storm is worth an inspection.
Does the age and condition of my roof affect coverage?+
It can. Some policies pay the depreciated value of an older roof rather than the full replacement cost, and the condition of the roof factors into how a claim is evaluated. Every policy is different, so your insurer or agent is the right person to tell you which terms apply to you.
What's the difference between an Actual Cash Value and a Replacement Cost policy?+
In general terms, an Actual Cash Value (ACV) policy pays what your roof is worth today after depreciation, while a Replacement Cost (RC) policy pays the cost to replace it minus your deductible, often in two installments with the second released after the work is complete. Settlement checks also typically have an expiration date. Your agent can confirm which type you carry and how your carrier handles payment.
How do I choose a roofing contractor?+
Look for an established, licensed contractor and ask for references. Ask to see certificates of insurance for general liability and workers' compensation. Get the estimate and the warranty in writing before anything is signed. ProCare provides all of this, and the inspection is free.
How long will the work take?+
Most residential roof replacements are completed in one to two days once materials are on site, weather permitting. Larger or more complex roofs take longer. Your written estimate includes the expected timeline for your project.
Can you install new shingles over my existing ones instead of tearing them off?+
We recommend a full tear-off in nearly every case. An overlay hides damaged decking, adds weight to the structure, shortens the life of the new shingles and can affect manufacturer warranty coverage. If there's ever a situation where an overlay makes sense, we'll say so in the estimate and explain why.
What do you do about roof flashing?+
Flashing goes wherever something meets the roof: chimneys, walls, skylights, pipes, vents and gutter lines. These are the most leak-prone areas on any roof. Sheet metal, ice and water shield, membranes and sealants can all be used. Existing flashing in good shape can sometimes be reused, but because it's so critical, we recommend new flashing whenever there's any doubt.
What is ice and water shield, and do you install it?+
It's a self-sealing underlayment installed on the wood deck before the shingles, in the places most prone to leaks and ice backup. We install it along the eaves, around chimneys and skylights, and in every valley.
Should I replace my gutters at the same time?+
Often, yes. When a roof is ready to be replaced, the gutters are frequently near the end of their life too. We install aluminum and copper gutters and can replace them with or without a new roof. We'll tell you honestly whether yours need it.
What about skylights?+
The best time to add or replace a skylight is while the roof is being replaced. If you have skylights that leak, we'll diagnose the problem and give you options. If you'd like to add one, tell our estimator and we'll include choices in your estimate.
Do you clean up when you're finished?+
Yes. We keep the job site clean from start to finish, run magnets to pick up nails, and do a final inspection of the roof and the grounds with you before we leave.
Do you carry workers' compensation and liability insurance?+
Yes, both. That means you're never responsible for those costs if something happens on your property. We're happy to provide certificates of insurance.
How can I prevent future roofing problems?+
At least once a year, take a look at your roof for cracked or missing shingles, deteriorated flashing and loose seams. Inside, watch for discolored drywall, peeling wallpaper or cracked paint near the ceiling. If you see any of these, call us for an evaluation. The sooner it's addressed, the less damage spreads.
Should I replace my windows when I replace my siding?+
Yes, if you can. With the siding off we can install new windows with a nailing flange that is taped and weatherproofed into the wall. Insert replacements rely on caulk around the old frame, and caulk fails within a few years.
Didn't see your question? Ask us directly and we'll give you a straight answer.
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