Roofing FAQs
Plain-English answers to the questions homeowners actually ask. No marketing fluff, no scary scare tactics — just what we’d tell our own family.
How Much Does It Cost?
How much does a new roof cost in Alabama or Georgia?
For a typical 2,000-2,500 sq ft asphalt shingle replacement in AL or GA, expect $9,000-$18,000 depending on roof complexity, material grade, and whether the deck needs repairs. Architectural shingles run $7-$10 per sq ft installed; standing-seam metal $12-$18 per sq ft. Storm damage with insurance approval changes the math — you typically pay only your deductible.
Do you give free estimates?
Yes. Free, no-obligation, written. Joshuwa or a senior tech walks the roof, takes photos, and emails you a line-item estimate within 24-48 hours. No high-pressure sales visit at your kitchen table.
Why are roofing quotes so different between contractors?
Three reasons. (1) Material grade — cheap 3-tab shingles vs premium architectural is a real cost difference. (2) What’s included — some quotes leave out underlayment, ice & water shield, flashing replacement, deck repair, and ventilation upgrades, then add them later as “change orders.” (3) Labor quality — manufacturer-certified installers cost more, but their warranties hold up. Compare line-item, not bottom-line.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. $0-down financing through partner lenders. Soft credit pull (no hit to your score), most decisions same-day, terms up to 15 years. Many homeowners pay $99-$200/month for a full replacement. More on financing →
Do I Need a New Roof?
How long does a roof last in Alabama and Georgia?
Standard 3-tab asphalt: 15-20 years. Architectural shingles: 25-30 years. Standing-seam metal: 40-70 years. Heat, humidity, and severe storms in the AL/GA region tend to shorten roof life by 3-5 years vs cooler climates. UV exposure and frequent hail are the main culprits.
What are the signs I need a new roof?
Curling or buckling shingles, granules filling your gutters, missing shingles in multiple areas, daylight visible through the attic deck, sagging rooflines, multiple active leaks, or your roof is past 20 years old. One of these is a yellow flag. Three or more is a green light to replace.
Repair or replace — how do I decide?
If your roof is under 15 years old and damage is isolated to one area, repair. If it’s 18+ years old and you have multiple problem spots, replacement is usually cheaper long-term. Honest contractor rule of thumb: if repairs would cost more than 30% of replacement, replace.
Can I just install a new roof over the old one?
Building code in most AL and GA jurisdictions allows up to two layers, but FCRS doesn’t do overlays. Reason: you can’t inspect or replace the deck underneath, you trap heat and moisture between layers (cooks the new shingles), and most manufacturer warranties are voided. Tear-off + replace is the right way.
Storm & Insurance Questions
A storm just hit. What do I do first?
Stay off the roof — let us inspect. Take photos of any visible damage from the ground. Save weather reports and storm date. Then call FCRS at (989) 843-4628 for a free inspection BEFORE you call your insurance. We’ll tell you whether you have a real claim or whether the damage is cosmetic. Full claim guide →
Will filing a claim raise my premium?
Storm-damage claims are typically classified as “acts of God” and don’t individually raise your premium. Carriers may raise rates across an entire ZIP code after a major storm event, but your individual claim doesn’t flag you as higher-risk.
Why do I need a contractor at the adjuster meeting?
Adjusters are paid to keep payouts low, and many miss legitimate damage on the first inspection. A contractor on the roof with the adjuster catches what they miss — bruising, lifted flashing, granule loss, soft spots — and ensures the carrier pays for the full repair scope. We do this for free as part of every storm job.
My claim was denied. Can FCRS help?
Often yes. We re-inspect, document missed damage, and file a supplement with the carrier. Many initial denials get reversed when proper photos and documentation are submitted. Call us before you accept the denial.
What to Expect
How long does a roof replacement take?
Most residential roofs (2,000-3,000 sq ft) are tear-off, install, and cleanup in 1-2 days. Larger or more complex roofs (multiple hips, dormers, or valleys) can take 2-3 days. Weather-permitting, of course — we don’t install in active rain.
Do I need to be home during the install?
No. Most customers go to work. The crew protects your landscaping, driveway, and AC units. We’ll text you photos at start, mid-day, and finish so you know what’s happening.
What about my landscaping and AC unit?
We tarp shrubs and flowerbeds before tear-off. AC compressor gets covered. After cleanup, we run a magnetic sweeper across the entire perimeter to catch every nail. If we damage anything — we own it.
What warranty comes with a new roof?
Two layers. Manufacturer warranty on the shingles (25-50 years depending on grade, lifetime on premium lines), and FCRS’s workmanship warranty on the install itself. Manufacturer warranties only honor full coverage when installed by a certified contractor — that’s us.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. Licensed in both Alabama and Georgia. $1M+ general liability and workers’ compensation on every crew member. We’ll send you a Certificate of Insurance (COI) before the first truck arrives. Always ask any contractor for their COI — if they hesitate, walk.
What areas do you serve?
All of Alabama and Georgia. Major service areas include Birmingham, Anniston, Hoover, Heflin, Ranburne (HQ), Atlanta, Carrollton, Marietta, Newnan, Douglasville. Full service area list →
Question Not Answered? Just Ask.
Joshuwa picks up the phone. No phone trees, no offshore call centers, no high-pressure sales pitch. Just an honest answer from the guy whose name is on the truck.
First Class Roofing & Solar 