It depends on the age of the roof, the extent of the damage, and whether your existing shingles are still performing. As a general rule, if your roof is under 15 years old and the damage is limited to a small area, a repair makes sense. If it's over 20 years old, or if we're seeing widespread granule loss, curling shingles, or significant storm damage, replacement is usually the smarter long-term investment.

Watch for these warning signs: shingles that are curling, buckling, or missing entirely; dark streaks or moss and algae growth; granules collecting in your gutters; sagging areas on the roof deck; daylight visible from inside your attic; and water stains on your ceilings or walls. Any one of these warrants a professional inspection. Multiple signs together usually mean it's time for a replacement.

Not necessarily. A leak can often be traced to a specific failure point — a flashing issue around a chimney or vent, a few cracked shingles, or a problem in a valley. If we can isolate the source and the surrounding shingles are still in good shape, a targeted repair will solve it. If the leak is widespread or the shingles are past their useful life, replacement is the better call.

Don't ignore a leak. What starts as a small drip can cause serious structural and mold damage quickly.

Standard 3-tab asphalt shingles typically last 15–20 years in Colorado. Architectural (dimensional) shingles run 25–30 years. Premium Class 4 impact-resistant shingles can last 30–50 years depending on the product and conditions. Colorado's mountain climate — intense UV at elevation, wide temperature swings, heavy snow loads, and frequent hailstorms — all accelerate wear faster than lower-altitude regions.

Roof lay-overs are not permitted under most local building codes in our service area. The only jurisdiction where they are allowed is under the Teller County Building Department — and this does not include Woodland Park or Cripple Creek, which operate under their own separate building codes that prohibit lay-overs.

Even where a lay-over is permitted, we generally don't recommend them. They add weight to your roof structure, trap moisture between layers, void most manufacturer warranties, and make it impossible to properly inspect the underlying deck. When Rawson Roofing does a replacement, we always do a full tear-off — so we can see exactly what we're working with and ensure the new roof starts on a clean, solid foundation.

For most residential roofs in the Colorado Springs and Woodland Park area, a full replacement takes 1–2 days. Larger homes, complex rooflines, or roofs with multiple layers to tear off can take 3 days. Weather is always a factor here in the mountains. We'll give you an honest timeline before we start and keep you updated if anything changes.

Hail damage isn't always visible from the ground. On asphalt shingles, look for dark bruising or dents that feel soft when pressed, circular impact marks that have knocked off surface granules, and rough areas worn smooth. On metal roofing and gutters, you'll see visible dents. The best way to know for sure is a professional inspection after any significant storm.

No — not every hailstorm causes significant damage. Hail under 1 inch in diameter rarely causes functional damage to a newer roof in good condition. Once hail reaches 1.5 inches or larger, the risk increases substantially. The angle of the storm, wind speed, and roofing material all matter. If you're unsure after a storm, we'll come take a look. It's always better to know.

As soon as possible — ideally within a few weeks of the storm. In Colorado, your insurance policy typically gives you one year from the date of loss to file a claim, but documentation of fresh damage is far stronger than evidence from months later. Waiting also risks missing damage that gets progressively worse with weather exposure.

First, stay safe — don't get on your roof after a storm. Document anything visible from the ground with photos and note the date and storm details. Call Rawson Roofing for a free inspection before you call your insurance company. Having a contractor's assessment in hand before you file puts you in a much stronger position. If there's active leaking into your home, place buckets, take photos, and call us immediately — emergency tarping may be needed.

Storm chasers are out-of-state roofing contractors who flood into an area after a major hail event, often going door to door. Common problems include using low-grade materials, disappearing after the job is done, leaving homeowners with warranty issues that can't be honored, and high-pressure sales tactics designed to rush you into a decision.

In most cases, yes. Hail damage is a covered peril under standard homeowner's insurance policies in Colorado. Coverage depends on your specific policy type (ACV vs. RCV — see the Cost & Insurance section below), your deductible, the age of your roof, and whether your insurer applies a separate wind/hail deductible. We've helped hundreds of homeowners navigate the claims process and we're happy to walk you through yours.

We recommend a professional roof inspection at least once every two to three years under normal conditions — and after any significant storm, regardless of when your last inspection was. In Colorado's mountain communities, where UV exposure is intense and hail is frequent, annual inspections can catch minor issues before they become expensive problems.

A thorough roof inspection covers: the condition of all shingles (cracking, curling, granule loss, impact damage, missing shingles); the integrity of flashings around chimneys, vents, skylights, and valleys; gutters and downspouts for granule buildup or damage; the soffit and fascia for moisture or rot; ridge vents and attic ventilation; and — if accessible — the attic itself for signs of water intrusion, sagging, or inadequate ventilation. Rawson Roofing inspections are thorough, documented, and honest.

Absolutely — and this is non-negotiable advice. A general home inspector will give your roof a glance, but a dedicated roofing inspection is far more detailed. We've seen plenty of roofs that looked fine to the untrained eye but had hail damage, failing flashings, or decking issues that added up to thousands of dollars in near-term repairs. If you're buying a home in the Colorado Springs area or mountain communities, a pre-purchase roof inspection from a qualified local contractor is one of the smartest investments you can make.

We strongly recommend it. A pre-listing inspection lets you know what condition your roof is in before a buyer's inspector finds issues — and gives you the option to repair proactively rather than negotiate from a weak position. In a competitive Colorado real estate market, a recently inspected or replaced roof is a genuine selling point.

You can do a basic visual check from the ground using binoculars — looking for missing shingles, visible sagging, or obvious damage. But a trained eye on the roof itself will catch things that simply aren't visible from street level: soft spots, micro-cracking, flashing failures, and early-stage hail damage. We don't recommend homeowners get on their own roofs for safety reasons. Call a professional — our storm inspections are free.

Look for these essentials: licensed and insured in Colorado; verifiable local references and a real track record in your community; a written, itemized estimate; clear specifics on the materials being used including manufacturer names and warranty details; no pressure to sign anything on the spot; and a physical local address and phone number. Experience matters enormously in roofing. Cory Rawson has been doing this work in this region for over 20 years, and every job reflects that.

Yes — getting two to three quotes is always a reasonable approach for a major project. That said, the lowest quote isn't always the best value. Pay attention to what each contractor is including: the specific shingle brand and grade, whether a full tear-off is included, what underlayment they're using, warranty terms, and whether they carry a workmanship warranty in addition to the manufacturer's. Apples-to-apples comparison matters more than bottom-line price.

This is critically important: do not sign anything labeled a quote, estimate, or inspection report unless you have fully read it and are prepared to commit to that contractor for the actual job.

Some roofing companies — particularly storm chasers — use deceptive document labeling. What looks like an "inspection form" or "free estimate" may contain language that makes it a binding contract or an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) that transfers control of your insurance claim to them. Read every document before you sign it. If you're unsure what you're signing, don't sign it.

Sign a contract when — and only when — you are fully ready to commit to that contractor. That means: you've verified their license and insurance; you've reviewed their written proposal and understand exactly what is included; you've compared their quote fairly against others; you're comfortable with the payment terms; and your insurance claim (if applicable) has been approved and you know what your out-of-pocket costs will be.

A solid roofing contract should include: the full scope of work (tear-off, decking inspection and repair terms, underlayment type, shingle brand and style, flashing details, ridge cap, cleanup and haul-away); the total price and payment schedule; project start date and estimated completion timeline; the contractor's license number and insurance certificate; manufacturer warranty details; and any workmanship warranty the contractor provides. If any of these are missing, ask for them before you sign.

Be cautious if a contractor: shows up unsolicited right after a storm and pressures you to sign immediately; offers to waive your deductible (illegal in Colorado); asks for a large cash payment upfront before any work begins; can't provide proof of insurance; has no verifiable local address or references; uses vague language in their estimate instead of specifying materials by brand; or discourages you from contacting your insurance company directly. Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.

You don't have to be, but we recommend being reachable by phone. Our crews are professional and take their work seriously — you don't need to supervise. That said, if we open up the deck and find unexpected damage, we'll want to walk you through it and confirm how to proceed. At the end of the job, we always do a final walkthrough with you to make sure you're fully satisfied before we consider the project complete.

Roof replacement costs vary based on square footage, roof pitch and complexity, material selection, and whether tear-off and deck repair are needed. In the Colorado Springs and Woodland Park area, most residential replacements fall between $8,000 and $20,000+. Impact-resistant or premium shingles will be at the higher end. Insurance-covered replacements often reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket costs beyond your deductible. Rawson Roofing provides transparent, itemized estimates so you know exactly what you're paying for and why.

ACV (Actual Cash Value) — your insurance pays what your roof is worth today, factoring in depreciation. If your roof is 15 years old, you'll receive significantly less than the full replacement cost.

RCV (Replacement Cost Value) — your insurance pays the full cost to replace the roof with like-kind materials, regardless of age. RCV coverage is worth having and is increasingly common in Colorado. Review your policy carefully, or call us and we'll help you understand it.

Yes — your deductible is your contractual obligation to your insurance company, and you are legally required to pay it.

A reputable contractor can absolutely help you navigate the claims process — attending the adjuster inspection, pointing out missed damage, and helping with supplemental claims if the initial payout is insufficient. That's legitimate and helpful.

What you should avoid is signing an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) that legally transfers control of your claim to the contractor. With an AOB, decisions about your claim are no longer yours to make. Work with your contractor as a partner and advocate — not as someone with independent authority over your insurance.

A supplement is an additional claim submitted to your insurance company when the initial payout doesn't cover all the legitimate work required. This happens frequently — adjusters sometimes miss damage, underestimate material costs, or overlook code-required upgrades. At Rawson Roofing, we're experienced in identifying scope gaps and submitting thorough supplements on behalf of our customers so you receive the coverage you're entitled to.

Filing a single hail claim rarely results in cancellation, as hail damage is considered a weather event outside your control. However, filing multiple claims in a short period can affect your premium or renewability depending on your insurer and policy. That said, you pay for insurance for exactly this purpose — using it for a legitimate hail claim is entirely appropriate. If you have concerns about your specific policy, review it with your insurance agent before filing.

3-tab shingles are the older, flat, single-layer design — lighter, less expensive, but shorter-lived and more susceptible to wind and impact damage. Architectural shingles (also called dimensional or laminate shingles) are thicker, multi-layered, and shaped to mimic the look of wood shake or slate. They're significantly more durable, carry longer warranties, and look better on the roof. In Colorado's climate, we almost always recommend architectural shingles as the baseline — the cost difference over the life of the roof is minimal, and the performance difference is real.

Impact-resistant shingles — specifically Class 4 rated products — are engineered with a reinforced polymer core that resists hail penetration. In Colorado's hail belt, they are absolutely worth considering. Many Colorado insurance companies offer premium discounts of 20–30% for Class 4 roofs, which can offset the higher material cost over time. In high-hail-risk areas like the Pikes Peak region and Front Range, Class 4 shingles are one of the smartest investments you can make on your home.

For most Colorado homes, Class 4 impact-resistant architectural shingles are the top choice — they handle hail, UV exposure, and wind well, and qualify for insurance discounts. Metal roofing (standing seam or metal shingles) is the most durable long-term option and increasingly popular in mountain communities. For high-altitude homes with heavy snow loads, a metal roof's smooth surface sheds snow more effectively than shingles. We'll recommend materials based on your specific home, location, and budget — not what's easiest for us to install.

Steel siding offers excellent durability, low maintenance, and strong resistance to hail, wind, and moisture — all things that matter in Colorado. Unlike wood siding, it won't rot, warp, or require repainting every few years. Unlike vinyl, it holds up to impact without cracking. Rawson Roofing installs steel siding in addition to roofing, and we've seen it transform the look and resilience of mountain homes across Teller County. Ask us for a quote if you're thinking about an upgrade.

A repair addresses a specific damaged area. An overlay installs new shingles directly over existing ones without a tear-off. A full tear-off and replacement removes all existing material, inspects the decking, and starts fresh. For most situations in Colorado — especially after storm damage — a full tear-off is the right call. It's the only way to know what's really happening underneath and to start with a properly warranted installation.

Yes — and this is an area where local expertise really matters. At elevations above 6,000–8,000 feet, UV radiation is significantly more intense, which accelerates shingle degradation faster than at sea level. Temperature swings between day and night are more dramatic, causing repeated expansion and contraction stress on materials. Snow loads are heavier, ice dams are more common, and steeper pitches require specialized experience.

An ice dam forms when heat from inside your home warms the upper part of the roof, melting snow that then refreezes at the cold eaves — creating a dam that traps water and forces it under shingles and into your home. Prevention comes from two places: proper attic insulation (to keep warm air from escaping through the roof deck) and adequate attic ventilation (to keep the roof surface at a uniform temperature). If you're seeing heavy icicles forming along your eaves every winter, it's worth having your attic evaluated.

For mountain homes that see significant snowfall, metal roofing is often the best long-term choice. Its smooth surface sheds snow naturally rather than accumulating load, and it has exceptional structural performance under weight. If shingles are preferred, a steeper pitch helps with snow shedding, and proper structural engineering for snow load is critical. We work regularly in communities from Woodland Park to Divide, Florissant, and beyond.

Yes, with the right conditions. Most roofing work can be performed in fall and winter when temperatures are above 40°F, as shingles need warmth to properly seal. In our mountain climate, we schedule around weather carefully and never compromise an installation by working in conditions that would affect the finished product. If winter work isn't feasible, we'll be honest with you about timing rather than rush a job and deliver inferior results.

Rawson Roofing is based in Woodland Park and serves residential and commercial customers throughout Teller, El Paso, Douglas, Fremont, and Park Counties — including Colorado Springs, Falcon, Fountain, Florissant, Divide, Manitou Springs, Monument, Pueblo, Fairplay, and surrounding mountain communities. If you're unsure whether we cover your area, call Cory directly at 719-210-9235.

Yes. In addition to residential roofing, Rawson Roofing handles commercial roofing projects throughout the Colorado Springs and Woodland Park area. We work on flat and low-slope commercial roofs, metal commercial roofing, and storm damage repair for commercial properties. Commercial roofing requires a different set of materials and installation techniques than residential — experience and the right certifications matter. Call us to discuss your commercial project.

Twice a year is standard for commercial roofs — once in spring and once in fall — plus after any significant storm. Commercial roofs are typically larger, have more penetrations (HVAC units, skylights, vents), and support more foot traffic, all of which create more potential failure points. Catching issues early is especially important because interior water damage can disrupt business operations and affect tenant relationships.

We install and repair a range of commercial roofing systems including TPO and EPDM membrane roofing for flat and low-slope applications, metal roofing for commercial buildings, modified bitumen, and architectural shingles for commercial structures with sloped roofing. We'll recommend the right system based on your building's design, use, and budget. Contact us to schedule a commercial assessment.