Happened to me last year, actually. I thought I just needed a couple shingles replaced after a windstorm, but when the next heavy rain hit, water started dripping into my attic. Turned out there was some hidden rot under the underlayment that nobody caught at first glance. Ended up being a much bigger job—had to replace a section of decking too.
I think a lot of it is hidden damage, especially if you’ve got older materials or the original install wasn’t great. Some newer “eco” shingles are supposed to be tougher, but in my experience, they’re only as good as their installation and the local climate. I’m in the Midwest, so freeze-thaw cycles really do a number on roofs.
As for insurance, mine covered most of it, but I still had to pay for upgraded materials since I wanted something more sustainable this time around. If you’re just patching with basic stuff, insurance usually covers enough, but any upgrades or code-required improvements come out of pocket. It adds up fast.
That hidden rot gets people every time. I’ve seen folks think they’re just swapping a few shingles, then suddenly they’re staring at a whole section of mushy decking. Midwest winters are brutal—ice dams sneak water in places you’d never expect. Insurance helps, but those “better” materials always seem to cost more than you plan for. I’m curious, did your adjuster catch the rot right away or did you have to push for a second look? Sometimes they miss stuff under the surface.
Had the same issue last year—thought it was just a few missing shingles, but once the roofer pulled them up, half the decking was soft. My adjuster missed the rot at first, just quoted for the visible stuff. I had to push back and ask for a re-inspection after the contractor showed photos. It took a couple weeks, but they did end up covering most of the extra work. If you suspect hidden damage, definitely get your own photos and don’t be afraid to ask for a second look.
Funny how it always looks like “just a couple shingles” until you actually get up there and poke around. I once had a job where the homeowner thought it’d be a quick patch—turned out, the whole back half was so mushy I nearly lost a boot. Insurance adjusters are good at spotting what’s obvious, but man, they miss a lot under the surface. Photos help, but sometimes you gotta tap on the wood and listen for that hollow thunk... That’s when you know it’s about to get expensive.
- Happens all the time—folks see a few missing shingles and think it’s a $200 fix.
- Once you’re up there, soft decking or hidden leaks can turn it into a full tear-off.
- Insurance is hit or miss. Some adjusters are sharp, but I’ve seen plenty just check the surface and call it good.
- Tapping for that hollow sound is underrated... saved me from quoting too low more than once.
- Don’t beat yourself up if it turns out bigger than expected—storm damage hides in weird places, especially on older roofs.
