Roofing FAQs

If you have a question about your roof, there is a good chance someone else has asked it first. Below are the questions we hear most often from homeowners and commercial property owners across Central Arkansas. If yours is not here, call us at 501-747-1400 and we will give you a straight answer.

Roof Repair and Replacement

How do I know if my roof needs to be repaired or replaced?
The honest answer is that you need an inspection to know for certain, but there are signs that point in each direction. Isolated damage — a few missing shingles, a localised leak, flashing that has pulled away — is often repairable. Widespread granule loss, sheathing damage, multiple layers already on the roof, or storm damage affecting most of the surface typically points toward full replacement. We will look at the full picture and give you a straight answer about which way it goes.
How long does a roof replacement take?
Most residential roof replacements in Central Arkansas take one to two days for the installation itself. The full timeline depends on roof size, material selection, weather, and whether an insurance claim is involved. We give you a realistic schedule during the estimate and communicate before anything changes.
Do you tell customers when they do not need a new roof?
Yes, and we do it regularly. We have advised homeowners to wait two or three years when their roof still had serviceable life in it. That is the honest answer, and it is how we operate regardless of what the larger job would be worth.
Can you install a new roof over existing shingles?
In some cases, yes. A second layer is possible when the existing decking is sound and the structure can carry the additional weight. In other cases, removal of the existing material is the right call first. We assess this during the estimate and give you an honest read on which situation you are in.

Insurance and Storm Damage

Does Riley Hays work with homeowners’ insurance on storm damage claims?
Yes, and this is an area where we have a genuine advantage. Our owner, Riley Hays, is a former licensed insurance adjuster. He understands how claims are evaluated, what documentation adjusters look for, and where homeowners typically lose money they are owed. We coordinate directly with your insurance company and walk with you through the claims process from damage documentation to final settlement.
What storm damage is typically covered by homeowners’ insurance?
Most homeowners’ policies cover structural damage caused by hail, wind, and related storm events. The specific coverage depends on your policy, including any deductibles and exclusions. We recommend reviewing your policy before a storm season and calling us after any significant weather event to assess the damage before you contact your insurer. The documentation we provide at that stage matters for the claim outcome.
Should I call Riley Hays before or after contacting my insurance company?
Before, if possible. Having a contractor’s assessment in hand before the adjuster visits gives you an accurate picture of the full damage scope. Our owner’s background as a licensed adjuster means we document damage in a way that aligns with how insurers evaluate claims. That documentation can make a meaningful difference in the settlement.
Can I have a contractor present when the insurance adjuster visits?
Yes, and we recommend it. You have the right to have your contractor on-site during the adjuster’s inspection. Riley’s background means he can speak the same language as the adjuster, identify anything that may have been overlooked, and advocate for the full scope of work your roof requires.

Costs and Estimates

How much does a new roof cost in Little Rock?
Roof cost is calculated per square (100 square feet of roof surface) and varies based on material type, roof pitch and complexity, the number of existing layers to remove, and the scope of any underlayment or decking work required. We do not provide estimates without seeing the roof first, because a number without an inspection is not a reliable number. Our estimates are free, written, and cover the full scope of work before you commit to anything.
How much does a roof repair cost?
Repair costs range widely depending on what the problem is and how much of the roof is affected. A flashing repair is a different scope than replacing a large section of storm-damaged shingles. We need to see the roof before we can give you a real figure. Free estimate, same as for replacements.
Do you offer financing?
Contact us to discuss payment options. We will give you an honest answer about what is available and what makes sense for your project.

Materials and Products

What shingle brands do you use?
We are a Malarkey-certified installer, which means we meet the manufacturer’s standards for installation and our customers’ warranties are valid. We also work with CertainTeed and GAF across our residential shingle work. For commercial systems we use Polyglass, Mule-Hide, and LBP depending on the application.
What is a Class 4 impact rating on shingles?
Class 4 is the highest impact resistance rating for roofing materials. Shingles with this rating have been tested to withstand significant hail impacts without cracking or breaking. In Arkansas, where hail is a regular seasonal occurrence, impact-resistant shingles are worth considering for most residential installations. Some insurance carriers also offer premium discounts for qualifying impact-resistant materials.
Do you install metal roofing?
Yes. Metal roofing is one of our stronger areas. We fabricate metal panels in-house using our own metal breakers, shears, and roll-on form panel machine, which gives us more flexibility on custom profiles and dimensions than contractors who order pre-cut stock. We install metal for both residential and commercial properties.

Working With Riley Hays

How do I get an estimate?
Call 501-747-1400 or use our contact form. We will schedule an inspection, assess the roof, and give you a written estimate covering the full scope of work before you commit to anything. No charge for the estimate.
What areas do you serve?
Our primary market is Little Rock and Central Arkansas, including Benton, Conway, Bryant, Sherwood, Jacksonville, Cabot, and Maumelle. We also serve Northwest Arkansas through Fayetteville, Bentonville, Rogers, and Springdale.
What are your business hours?
Monday through Friday, 7:00am to 4:00pm. For emergency roof situations, we offer 24/7 response including same-night tarping. Call 501-747-1400 any time for emergencies.

Still have questions? We are happy to talk through your specific situation.

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