Here's the cold hard truth: roofing ain't cheap, especially in Detroit. You're looking at shelling out anywhere from $11k to $24k for a new roof on a 2,000 sq ft home, depending on the 'Waste factor.' You might think you’re getting a deal with the low end, but beware of 'Chuck in a truck' types that cut corners. I've seen too many roofs fail just because of cheap materials. (Starter strips and Ice and Water shields aren't just fancy words—they’re necessities.) The labor shortage ain't helping either—O&P is skyrocketing.

Look, you've got options. There's your 'Chuck in a truck'—the guy who promises the world for cheap. Then, you’ve got serious companies with experienced crews. The latter might cost more, but they know what they're doing. (Proper step flashing can save your butt during a Detroit winter or those spring storms.) I've seen too many DIY-disasters because folks skimped on the labor. You get what you pay for.

Look, it's all about trust. First off, ask for licenses and insurance. If a roofer balks, RUN. Check online reviews, but take 'em with a grain of salt. (Some are fake, believe me.) I've seen homeowners get sweet-talked by smooth operators. Don't be afraid to ask for references. A good roofer ain't afraid to show their work. Local forums and word-of-mouth are also your pals. Find someone who knows Detroit's weather quirks—hail, wind, and those sneaky UV rays.

Here's my take: it's not always the biggest names you should go for. Some smaller outfits deliver top-notch work. But do your homework! I've seen folks get starry-eyed by big ads and end up with subpar work because they missed the fine print. (Big name doesn’t always equal big quality.) Find a company with a reputation for honesty and craftsmanship. And ask around—word travels fast in Detroit.

Residential roofs and commercial roofs? Two different beasts. Residential is usually steeper pitch and shingle-heavy, while commercial might go flat with membranes or metal. (More ice and water shield on steep ones.) Here's the cold hard truth: not every roofer does both well, so don't let 'em tell you otherwise without proof. I've seen talented residential guys make a mess of a commercial job. Know what you need before you hire.

Look, it depends. A full replacement might take a few days to a week. Weather's the wild card here—any hint of rain or hail and things can stall. (Schedule around Detroit's unpredictable storms if you can.) Smaller repairs might only take a day or two, but don't expect miracles, especially with material and labor shortages in 2026 making everything slower. Patience is key.

Most do, but here's the trick—read between the lines. FREE CONSULTATIONS are a lure, but it's how they evaluate that matters. Watch for those who spend more time selling than listening. I've seen homeowners get bamboozled into unnecessary work. A good roofer will inspect and advise without the hard sell. (And if you feel pressured, just walk away.) Trust your gut—consultations should help, not hustle.