Complete Reroofing: What It Means and When It’s the Right Call

When it comes to keeping your home protected in Phoenix, Glendale, or Avondale, few things are more critical than a properly functioning roof. But what happens when a few patches just won’t cut it? Complete reroofing becomes necessary when the current roofing system is no longer repairable, or when insurance companies determine that a partial repair won’t restore the structure to safe and insurable condition.

Unlike simple repairs or single-section replacements, complete reroofing refers to the total removal of your existing roofing system—shingles, underlayment, and flashing—and the full installation of a brand-new system from the decking up. This isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade. In areas like Tempe, Peoria, and Surprise where sun damage, monsoon storms, or aging tiles wreak havoc on older rooftops, total roof replacement is often the only responsible solution.

But how do you know when your home crosses the line from needing a patch job to needing a complete reroofing?

Let’s break it down.

When Do You Need Complete Reroofing?

There are several red flags that may indicate a full reroof is your best option:

Widespread Shingle Deterioration: If more than 25–30% of your shingles are curling, missing, or cracking, localized repairs won’t cut it. Asphalt and tile roofs in Sun City or Goodyear can degrade fast under UV exposure.
Multiple Leaks in Different Areas: Leaks appearing in separate areas—especially after storms—often suggest systemic failure of the underlayment or flashing.
Water Damage in the Attic or Ceiling: Discoloration, mold, or sagging drywall are symptoms of deeper issues that require a full tear-off.
Roof Age Exceeds Life Expectancy: Most asphalt roofs last around 20–25 years. Tile underlayment often fails after 30 years. If you’re at or beyond this range, replacement becomes a structural necessity.
Insurance Denial of Spot Repairs: Insurance adjusters often favor complete reroofing when it ensures long-term stability and avoids piecemeal repairs that might not hold up in future storms.

For insurance-related scenarios, roofing contractors like Castile Roofing work hand-in-hand with adjusters to determine whether spot repairs or a full replacement are warranted. Many carriers base their decision on the percentage of roof damage sustained in a covered event. According to NAIC guidelines, if over 25% of the roof is damaged, insurers often authorize a total replacement instead of patching—especially in monsoon-prone regions like Buckeye or Casa Grande.

If you suspect your roof might fall into this category, you can schedule an evaluation with our team. We specialize in helping homeowners navigate their claims and make informed decisions. Get started here: Castile’s Roof Insurance Assistance.

What’s Involved in the Complete Reroofing Process?

Choosing complete reroofing isn’t just about starting fresh—it’s about rebuilding your roof from the foundation up. At Castile Roofing, we walk you through each step of the process, ensuring transparency, durability, and compliance with Arizona building codes. Here’s what homeowners in Phoenix, Queen Creek, and Maricopa can expect:

1. On-Site Inspection and Consultation

Our team begins with a detailed inspection. We evaluate shingle condition, underlayment integrity, flashing damage, attic ventilation, and decking soundness. If needed, we help homeowners coordinate with their insurance provider, especially in storm-damage scenarios. You can learn more about that support here: Roofing Damage Insurance Info.

2. Tear-Off of the Old Roofing System

We completely strip away all shingles, tiles, underlayment, and damaged flashing. Unlike overlay methods, which add new shingles on top of old ones, complete reroofing allows us to assess and correct any hidden structural issues before rebuilding. Overlaying, while cheaper upfront, can void warranties and cause long-term problems.

3. Decking and Structural Repairs

If we uncover rotted plywood or warped sheathing—common in older homes in places like Anthem or Tonopah—we replace it immediately. Structural integrity is a non-negotiable step in the complete reroofing process.

4. Waterproofing and Underlayment Installation

High-performance synthetic underlayment is installed across the entire deck. This waterproof membrane is crucial for protecting against Arizona’s intense UV rays and monsoon rains. We often recommend reinforced ice-and-water barriers in vulnerable valleys or low-slope areas. To better understand underlayment options, GAF Roofing provides a reliable comparison of modern materials.

5. Flashing and Ventilation Upgrades

We install new flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights, and eaves. Proper ventilation is also re-evaluated during complete reroofing to ensure your attic can breathe, which extends shingle life and reduces energy costs.

6. New Roofing System Installation

Whether you choose architectural asphalt shingles, clay tiles, or metal panels, we follow all manufacturer specs and code-compliant fastening methods. For example, 6-nail asphalt shingle installation is a popular option for homeowners concerned about wind uplift or storm resilience in places like Surprise or Tolleson.

7. Final Cleanup and Quality Inspection

Our crew performs a full debris sweep, including magnetic pickup for stray nails, and then walks the entire roof to ensure every seam and shingle is secure. You’ll receive photo documentation and a post-installation briefing.

Homeowners often ask if this entire process is disruptive. While complete reroofing is more labor-intensive than minor repairs, we complete most residential projects in 2–3 days, weather permitting. Our crews respect your space and clean up thoroughly each evening.

Ready for that level of professionalism and clarity? Contact us today to set up a consult: Castile Roofing Contact Page.

Why Arizona Homeowners Trust Castile Roofing for Complete Reroofing

Across Maricopa County and beyond, Castile Roofing has earned a reputation for transparency, reliability, and quality workmanship. From the older homes of Mesa and Tempe to new builds in Buckeye and Goodyear, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners decide when complete reroofing is necessary—and we deliver it with precision.

Our Approach Is Local, Professional, and Personalized

Unlike national chains or low-bid storm chasers, Castile Roofing is a locally owned, ROC-licensed company with 14+ years of deep Valley experience. Every complete reroofing job is handled by crews who live and work in Arizona, not outsourced contractors. Our CEO is a Stanford MBA with a business-first mindset—meaning your estimate, timeline, and final product will always reflect professional standards.

And that professionalism isn’t just talk. Our reviews across Glendale, Peoria, and Tempe speak for themselves. We’re consistently rated as one of the most trusted names in the Valley.

Reroofing vs. 2nd Layer: We Do It Right

Some homeowners are told by other contractors that they can simply “overlay” new shingles on old ones to save money. What they’re not told is that most reputable roofing manufacturers—like Owens Corning—will void their product warranties if a roof is installed over an existing one.

At Castile Roofing, we don’t cut corners. We don’t offer 2nd-layer installation because it compromises the structural integrity of your home and costs you more in the long run. Our focus is always on roofing done right, which is why complete reroofing—when warranted—is our preferred approach for longevity, code compliance, and peace of mind.

Serving All Corners of the Valley

No matter where you’re located—be it the foothills of Cave Creek, the retirement communities of Sun City, or the expanding neighborhoods of Queen Creek—we bring the same thorough process, experienced project management, and responsive service. We also specialize in both residential and commercial roofing needs, making us one of the few full-spectrum providers in the region.

Help with Insurance? We’ve Got You Covered

Navigating insurance claims for roof damage can be frustrating. We help our clients in places like Surprise and Avondale document their losses, work with adjusters, and ensure that their claim aligns with what’s actually needed—especially if complete reroofing is the safest and most economical choice. You can read more about how we help here: Roofing Damage Insurance.

We’re not just roofing contractors—we’re problem solvers, advocates, and your long-term partner in protecting your home.

How to Know When It’s Time for Complete Reroofing

It’s not always obvious when your home needs complete reroofing. Small leaks and patch repairs might buy you time, but eventually, every roof reaches the point where repair is no longer a viable or cost-effective option. Knowing when to make the call can save thousands in secondary damage—and extend the life of your property.

Key Warning Signs to Watch For

Widespread Shingle Damage
If shingles are curling, cupping, cracking, or missing across large portions of your roof, it’s no longer just a cosmetic problem. Shingles are your home’s first defense against UV exposure, water infiltration, and Arizona’s brutal heat. At that stage, a patch job won’t help—you need a full evaluation. We offer shingle roofing repair services, but if damage is widespread, complete reroofing becomes the safer long-term investment.
Granule Loss and Bald Spots
Asphalt shingles gradually shed protective granules over time. If your gutters and downspouts are filling up with grit—or your shingles appear “bald” in spots—moisture intrusion is next. That’s especially concerning in monsoon-prone cities like Phoenix, Peoria, and Glendale.
Sagging or Soft Decking
This one’s serious. A sagging roof deck usually indicates rot, structural fatigue, or long-term water damage. No patch can solve that. It’s time to call in an expert roofing contractor immediately for a full tear-off and rebuild. We recommend referencing FEMA’s roofing standards for more context on structural expectations.
Roof Age Over 20 Years
Even if everything looks okay from the ground, most roofing systems in Arizona start to fail after 18–22 years due to UV exposure and thermal cycling. If your roof is nearing that mark—and especially if it’s had previous repairs—it’s wise to request an inspection and get ahead of the issue.

Still Unsure? Request a No-Pressure Inspection

We don’t just show up with a quote—we explain what’s going on, whether or not complete reroofing is necessary, and which alternatives (like blown asphalt shingle repair) might still be on the table. Unlike pushy sales outfits, we’re in this for the long haul.

What to Expect During a Complete Reroofing Project

Once you’ve decided to move forward with complete reroofing, it’s helpful to know what the process actually looks like from start to finish. Whether you’re in Phoenix, Scottsdale, or Avondale, understanding the typical stages can reduce anxiety and help you budget more effectively.

1. Tear-Off and Deck Inspection

The first step is to remove every layer of old roofing material, all the way down to the roof deck. This is a critical step—especially in Arizona, where sun damage and dry rot can hide under shingles for years. Once everything is stripped, we inspect the deck for structural integrity. Soft spots, mold, or signs of water damage must be addressed before new materials go on. If decking repair is necessary, we always inform homeowners first and provide transparent pricing.

You can learn more about our approach on our Residential Roof Repair page, which outlines our inspection process and repair protocols.

2. Material Selection and Underlayment Installation

Once the deck is sound, we lay down underlayment—usually synthetic felt or self-adhering membrane—to form a secondary water barrier. In cities like Buckeye or Goodyear, where sudden downpours hit hard in monsoon season, this step is essential.

Next comes the material selection:

Asphalt Shingles: Cost-effective and popular, but must be high-quality to handle Arizona’s heat.
Tile Roofing: More durable but heavier and more expensive. May require structural reinforcement.
Modified Bitumen or TPO: Ideal for flat roofs on commercial buildings or modern home designs.

Need help comparing materials? Visit our guide on shingle roofing repair or check out our recommendations for commercial roofers in Phoenix, which includes details on low-slope options.

3. Installation and Final Inspection

Roofing crews will begin installing your new roof according to manufacturer specs and local building codes. Depending on material type and weather, the job usually takes 2 to 5 days. At Castile Roofing, our crews are ROC-licensed and rigorously trained for both residential and commercial jobs.

After installation, we conduct a multi-point quality assurance inspection to ensure everything is sealed, ventilated, and up to code. We’re also happy to work with your insurance adjuster to document the scope of work for claim purposes—more on that in the next section.

4. What Does Complete Reroofing Cost?

Every project is unique, but here are general ballpark ranges:

Asphalt Shingles: $8,000–$13,000
Tile Roofs: $15,000–$30,000+
Flat Roof Systems: $10,000–$18,000

Your final price depends on roof pitch, square footage, material choice, and whether structural repair is needed. Our team always offers a written estimate, and we never surprise customers with hidden fees. For more info, visit our Contact Page to request a free consultation.

How Insurance Companies Handle Complete Reroofing Claims

For many homeowners, the decision to move forward with complete reroofing doesn’t just hinge on the condition of the roof—it hinges on whether insurance will cover the cost. Understanding how insurance companies evaluate roof claims can make or break your budget, especially if you’re dealing with storm damage in cities like Glendale, Casa Grande, or Surprise.

When Does Insurance Cover a Complete Reroofing?

In general, insurance will cover a complete reroofing only if the damage is caused by a covered peril. That includes:

Hailstorms
High winds (especially during Arizona’s monsoon season)
Falling trees or debris
Fire damage

What it doesn’t typically cover is normal wear and tear or neglect. So, if your roof is simply old and worn out from age or sun exposure, insurance is unlikely to approve a claim for a full replacement.

If you’re unsure where your situation falls, check out this excellent resource from the Insurance Information Institute that breaks down how roof insurance works in plain language.

What the Inspection Process Looks Like

Once a claim is filed, your insurance company will usually send out an adjuster to inspect the roof. At Castile Roofing, we highly recommend having one of our experienced contractors present during this inspection. We know how to spot damage that adjusters may miss—and we know how to document it in a way that meets insurance standards.

Our team regularly assists homeowners with this process, and you can learn more about it on our roofing damage insurance page. We help gather photo evidence, write detailed reports, and even communicate directly with your insurer if needed.

The Myth of “Like Kind and Quality”

One issue that often arises is the insurer’s desire to replace your roof with materials of “like kind and quality.” This might sound fair, but in practice, it can be limiting. If you want to upgrade your roof—say from basic shingles to a more durable option like architectural asphalt or tile—you may have to pay the difference out of pocket.

In many cases, however, we can help homeowners appeal this. Especially if the original materials are no longer available or if local building codes have changed, insurers may be required to cover upgrades to meet current standards.

Learn more about Arizona roofing codes from the Arizona Registrar of Contractors, which outlines what’s legally required for residential and commercial roofing systems in the state.

Castile Roofing Works With You, Not Against You

We’ve handled complete reroofing claims from Buckeye to New River and everywhere in between. Our team understands the fine print of insurance policies, and we work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for every homeowner. We’ve even had customers in places like Tolleson and Verado tell us that our guidance was the only reason they received a full claim approval.

Need help getting started? Visit our About Us page to learn more about our leadership and customer-first mission—or contact us directly to schedule a roof inspection and insurance consultation.