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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about roofing, stucco, storm damage, and working with Alliance Construction Services in New Mexico.

Roofing General

A typical residential roof replacement in the Albuquerque metro area ranges from $6,500 to $7,800, depending on the size of your roof, the materials selected, and the complexity of the job. Flat roofs common in New Mexico tend to cost differently than pitched roofs with shingles. We provide free, no-obligation estimates so you know exactly what to expect before any work begins.

In New Mexico, most asphalt shingle roofs last 15 to 20 years, while flat roofs with TPO or modified bitumen typically last 15 to 25 years depending on maintenance. The intense UV radiation at our high altitude (over 5,000 feet) accelerates material degradation faster than in lower-elevation states. Regular inspections and prompt repairs can extend your roof's lifespan significantly.

For flat roofs, TPO and modified bitumen are excellent choices because they reflect UV rays and handle thermal cycling well. For pitched roofs, impact-resistant (Class 4) shingles are highly recommended due to the frequent hailstorms in the Albuquerque area — averaging 24 or more hail events per year. Many insurance companies offer premium discounts for impact-resistant shingles, which can offset the slightly higher upfront cost.

We recommend having your roof professionally inspected at least once a year, ideally in the spring before monsoon season hits in July through September. You should also schedule an inspection after any major hailstorm or high-wind event. Catching small issues early — like cracked flashing or lifted shingles — prevents costly water damage down the road.

Yes, New Mexico's mild winters and over 300 days of sunshine make roofing work possible throughout the year. Unlike states with harsh winters, we rarely have extended freezing periods that halt construction. The main scheduling consideration is monsoon season (July through September), when afternoon thunderstorms can temporarily delay work, but most projects proceed on schedule year-round.

If your roof is under 15 years old and the damage is limited to a small area, a repair is usually the most cost-effective option. However, if your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, has widespread hail damage, or you're seeing multiple leaks, a full replacement often makes more financial sense. We provide free inspections and will give you an honest recommendation — we never push a replacement when a repair will do.

Canales are the traditional scupper-style drains you see projecting from the parapet walls of flat-roofed homes throughout New Mexico. They channel rainwater off the roof and away from the building's walls and foundation. Proper canale maintenance is critical — if they become clogged with debris, water pools on your flat roof and eventually causes leaks. We inspect and repair canales as part of every flat roof service call.

Storm & Insurance

In most cases, yes. Standard homeowner's insurance policies in New Mexico cover hail damage to your roof as it is considered a sudden and accidental peril. However, coverage depends on your specific policy, your deductible (which may be a percentage-based wind/hail deductible), and whether the damage is from a recent storm versus long-term wear. We help homeowners understand their coverage and document damage properly for their claim.

First, document any visible damage with photos and note the date of the storm. Then contact your insurance company to open a claim. Before the adjuster visits, have a professional roofer inspect the damage so you have an independent assessment. We offer free storm damage inspections and can meet with your adjuster on-site to ensure all damage is accurately documented and nothing gets overlooked.

On shingle roofs, look for circular dents or bruises where granules have been knocked off, exposing the dark underlayment beneath. On flat roofs, hail can cause dents, punctures, or cracks in the membrane. Other signs include dented gutters, downspouts, or roof vents. Hail damage is often hard to spot from the ground, which is why we recommend a free professional inspection after any significant storm in the Albuquerque area.

Most insurance policies in New Mexico require you to file a claim within one to two years of the damage occurring, but the sooner you file, the better. Waiting too long can make it harder to prove the damage was storm-related rather than from normal wear and tear. We recommend contacting your insurance company within a few days of a major storm and scheduling a professional inspection immediately.

Filing a single weather-related claim typically does not raise your rates in New Mexico, as hail and wind damage are considered acts of nature beyond your control. However, filing multiple claims within a short period could impact your premiums or insurability. Each situation is different, so we recommend discussing your specific concerns with your insurance agent before filing. We can help you assess whether the damage justifies a claim based on your deductible.

Stucco

Stucco cracking in New Mexico is primarily caused by thermal cycling — our extreme daily temperature swings of 30 to 40 degrees cause stucco to expand and contract repeatedly. The intense UV radiation at high altitude also degrades the material over time, making it more brittle. Additionally, the low humidity and dry desert air can cause stucco to cure too quickly during installation if not properly managed, leading to shrinkage cracks.

A full re-stucco of a typical Albuquerque-area home ranges from $12,000 to $20,000, depending on the size of the home, the condition of the underlying substrate, and the type of stucco finish selected. Smaller patch repairs are significantly less expensive. We provide free estimates with a detailed scope of work so you understand exactly what's included before committing to any project.

In New Mexico's harsh desert climate, stucco should be visually inspected at least once a year for cracks, discoloration, or areas where it has pulled away from the wall. Small hairline cracks should be sealed promptly to prevent water intrusion during monsoon season. A fresh elastomeric coating every 5 to 7 years can dramatically extend the life of your stucco and keep it looking clean.

Traditional stucco (Portland cement-based) is a thick, three-coat system applied over wire lath. It's extremely durable in New Mexico's dry climate and has been used on Southwestern homes for generations. Synthetic stucco (EIFS — Exterior Insulation and Finish System) is a thinner, lighter system applied over foam insulation board. While EIFS offers better energy efficiency, traditional stucco is generally preferred in our climate for its breathability and resistance to impact damage.

An elastomeric coating is a thick, flexible paint-like coating that stretches and contracts with your stucco as temperatures change. It seals hairline cracks and creates a waterproof barrier that protects against monsoon rains while still allowing moisture vapor to escape. For New Mexico homes, an elastomeric coating is one of the best investments you can make to extend your stucco's lifespan and prevent water damage.

If both need work, the roof should almost always be done first. A compromised roof can allow water to penetrate behind your stucco from above, undermining even a brand-new stucco job. Once your roof is solid and properly draining, stucco repairs or replacement can proceed without risk of water damage from above. We handle both roofing and stucco, so we can coordinate the work efficiently.

Working with ACS

Absolutely. We provide free, no-obligation estimates for all roofing and stucco projects. We'll come to your property, thoroughly assess the work needed, and give you a clear, written estimate with no hidden fees. Most estimate requests are scheduled within a day or two of your call.

We serve the greater Albuquerque metropolitan area, including Rio Rancho, Albuquerque, Bernalillo, Corrales, and surrounding communities in Sandoval and Bernalillo counties. Whether you're in the North Valley, the West Side, or anywhere in between, we're happy to come to you for a free estimate.

Yes, Alliance Construction Services is fully licensed and insured in the state of New Mexico. We carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage to protect both our team and your property. We're happy to provide proof of insurance upon request — just ask when you schedule your estimate.

Most residential roof replacements are completed in 1 to 3 days, depending on the size and complexity of the roof. Flat roof replacements may take slightly longer due to the membrane installation process. We work efficiently to minimize disruption to your household and always clean up thoroughly when the job is done.

Yes, we have extensive experience helping homeowners navigate the insurance claims process for storm and hail damage. We provide detailed documentation including photos and damage reports, and we can meet with your insurance adjuster on-site to walk through the findings together. Our goal is to make sure you receive the full coverage you're entitled to under your policy.

Still Have Questions?

We're happy to answer any questions about your roofing or stucco project. Reach out for a free, no-obligation consultation.

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