1. Roofs Don’t Last Forever Most asphalt shingle roofs in Mississippi last about 15–25 years. Metal roofs can last much longer—40–70 years—with proper care. 2. Gutters Protect More Than You Think Clogged or broken gutters don’t just cause puddles. They can lead to roof leaks, foundation damage, and rotting wood around your home. 3. Black Streaks on Your Roof Are Algae Those dark streaks aren’t just dirt. It’s a type of algae that loves Mississippi’s humid weather. It looks bad, but it can also shorten your roof’s life if left untreated. 4. Small Storm Damage Adds Up Missing shingles, dents from hail, or bent flashing may look minor, but even small problems can turn into expensive leaks over time. 5. Trees Can Harm Your Roof Branches rubbing against shingles wear them down, and leaves in gutters cause clogs. Keep trees trimmed back to avoid roof and gutter issues. 6. Gutters Need Cleaning—Even Without Trees Many homeowners think gutters only clog from leaves. But in Mississippi, pine needles, pollen, and storm debris can clog gutters just as easily. 7. Ventilation and Insulation Matter A roof isn’t just shingles. Without proper attic ventilation and insulation, summer heat can warp shingles, raise energy bills, and cause early roof failure. 8. Hail Damage Isn’t Always Visible Your roof may look fine after a storm, but hail can leave hidden bruises that weaken shingles and lead to leaks later. 9. Gutters Can Save Your Siding and Landscaping By directing water away, gutters prevent water stains on siding and stop heavy runoff from washing away flower beds or eroding soil. 10. Regular Inspections Save Money Having your roof and gutters checked once or twice a year can catch small issues before they become costly repairs. It’s one of the best investments a homeowner can make. In Mississippi, roofs and gutters take a beating from the weather. By staying on top of maintenance and knowing these simple facts, you can add years to your roof’s life and protect your biggest investment—your home. At Sumrall Construction & Roofing, we specialize in helping Mississippi homeowners with roof inspections, repairs, replacements, and gutter installations. Contact us today for your inspection and peace of mind before the next storm hits.

Understanding Deductible Differences A common misconception among homeowners is that their standard policy deductible applies to all types of claims. In reality, most Mississippi homeowners insurance policies now include separate deductibles for wind and hail damage—and these are often significantly higher than your regular deductible. Here’s the difference: Standard (All-Perils) Deductible: Usually a flat amount—often around $1,000. This applies to general claims like fire or theft. Wind/Hail Deductible: Often a percentage of your home’s insured value—typically 1% to 5%. Example: If your home is insured for $300,000 and you have a 2% wind/hail deductible, you’d be responsible for $6,000 out of pocket before insurance pays for storm-related roof repairs—even if your standard deductible is only $1,000. Questions to Ask Your Insurer Before Filing a Claim To avoid surprises and make informed decisions, ask your agent: What is my current deductible amount—and how is it applied? Do I have a separate wind/hail or named storm deductible? Is my policy based on replacement cost value (RCV) or actual cash value (ACV)? Consulting your insurer ahead of time helps you fully understand your financial responsibility and determine whether filing a claim makes sense based on your deductible and the extent of the damage. Need help assessing roof or exterior storm damage before contacting your insurance company? Call Sumrall Construction & Roofing for a free, no-pressure inspection. We’ll give you the facts—so you can make the best decision for your home.