Recent Storm Damage in Reno
November 2024: Winter storm affected Reno, Sparks, Greater Reno area. If your roof was damaged, act now to prevent further damage.
2025 Storm Events in Reno
Recent severe weather that may have damaged roofs in your area
November 2024
Winter storm
Winds: High
Affected Areas:
Reno, Sparks, Greater Reno area
Heavy snow and strong winds caused roof damage concerns and power outages in many neighborhoods
Reno, Nevada
Find Trusted roofing contractors in Reno
8+ Local Prosready to help in Reno
Connect with licensed, insured roofing contractors in Reno, Nevada. Compare options and get a free quote today.
Local Contractors
8
verified & ready to help
Avg Rating
4.8/5
Best Time
March - April
All contractors licensed & insured
Photo: Photo by Nicholas Ceglia on Unsplash
Climate Impact
Climate Considerations in Reno
Understanding Reno's weather patterns helps you choose the right roofing materials and plan your project timing.
Photo by Jasmin Schuler on Unsplash
Challenge 1
High desert climate with extreme temperature swings between day and night
Challenge 2
Strong UV radiation and intense sunlight year-round
Challenge 3
Seasonal snowfall with potential for heavy snow loads
Best Time to Roof
Optimal months for roofing projects
Best Months
MarchAprilMaySeptemberOctoberNovember
Avoid if Possible
DecemberJanuaryFebruaryJulyAugust
Energy Considerations
How your roof affects energy costs
- Cool-roof and reflective materials significantly reduce cooling costs
- Energy Star-rated roofing may qualify for utility rebates
- Proper ventilation essential for temperature regulation
- Light-colored tiles and reflective metal reduce surface temperatures
- Quality underlayment extends roof life and improves energy efficiency
Reno's high desert climate presents unique challenges that significantly impact roofing systems throughout the year. Known as "The Biggest Little City in the World," Reno sits at approximately 4,500 feet elevation in the rain shadow of the Sierra Nevada mountains, creating weather patterns that demand careful consideration when selecting and maintaining roofing materials.
The region experiences dramatic temperature swings that can exceed 40 degrees in a single day, causing roofing materials to expand and contract repeatedly. This thermal cycling accelerates wear on shingles, flashing, and sealants, often reducing the effective lifespan of roofing systems compared to more temperate climates. During summer months, temperatures regularly exceed 90 degrees with intense UV radiation that can cause asphalt shingles to become brittle and lose protective granules prematurely.
Winter brings its own set of challenges to Reno rooftops. The city averages 22 inches of snowfall annually, with periodic heavy storms that can dump significant accumulations in short periods. A notable winter storm in November 2024 brought heavy snow and high winds that caused roof damage and power outages across many neighborhoods. Ice dam formation poses a particular threat when snow melts during warm days and refreezes at roof edges during cold nights, potentially forcing water beneath shingles and into the home.
The low humidity characteristic of high desert environments causes wood components to dry out and crack, while the region's susceptibility to high winds during storm events can lift shingles and damage flashing. Additionally, Reno's location near wildfire-prone areas makes fire-resistant roofing materials an important consideration for many homeowners. Understanding these climate factors is essential for selecting materials that will provide lasting protection and making informed decisions about maintenance schedules and replacement timing.
The region experiences dramatic temperature swings that can exceed 40 degrees in a single day, causing roofing materials to expand and contract repeatedly. This thermal cycling accelerates wear on shingles, flashing, and sealants, often reducing the effective lifespan of roofing systems compared to more temperate climates. During summer months, temperatures regularly exceed 90 degrees with intense UV radiation that can cause asphalt shingles to become brittle and lose protective granules prematurely.
Winter brings its own set of challenges to Reno rooftops. The city averages 22 inches of snowfall annually, with periodic heavy storms that can dump significant accumulations in short periods. A notable winter storm in November 2024 brought heavy snow and high winds that caused roof damage and power outages across many neighborhoods. Ice dam formation poses a particular threat when snow melts during warm days and refreezes at roof edges during cold nights, potentially forcing water beneath shingles and into the home.
The low humidity characteristic of high desert environments causes wood components to dry out and crack, while the region's susceptibility to high winds during storm events can lift shingles and damage flashing. Additionally, Reno's location near wildfire-prone areas makes fire-resistant roofing materials an important consideration for many homeowners. Understanding these climate factors is essential for selecting materials that will provide lasting protection and making informed decisions about maintenance schedules and replacement timing.
How Reno's Climate Affects Materials
asphalt Shingles
Can turn brittle in cold, soften in extreme heat, and lose granules from prolonged sun exposure. 15-25 year lifespan typical.
metal Roofing
Excellent performance - reflects heat, resists UV damage, handles thermal expansion well. 40-60 year lifespan.
tile Clay
Excellent heat resistance and longevity. Requires quality underlayment as water can get under tiles.
wood Shake
Not ideal for Reno's dry climate - can crack and split. No longer permitted by building code due to fire risk.
slate
Exceptional performance even in extreme conditions, excellent UV resistance.
Finding the right roofing contractor in Reno starts with understanding what separates qualified professionals from the rest. With Northern Nevada's challenging high desert climate demanding specialized expertise, connecting with contractors who truly understand local conditions can make the difference between a roof that lasts decades and one that requires premature repairs.
Nevada requires all roofing contractors to hold a valid C-15 Roofing and Siding license issued by the Nevada State Contractors Board. This license confirms the contractor has demonstrated at least four years of verifiable experience in the roofing trade within the past 15 years, passed both business law and trade-specific examinations, and maintains required bonding and insurance coverage. Verifying this license takes just moments through the NSCB online portal but provides essential protection for your investment.
Reno homeowners have access to several highly-regarded roofing contractors with deep roots in the community, from family businesses with over 75 years of local experience to specialized firms holding manufacturer certifications from industry leaders. The key is identifying contractors who combine technical expertise with honest communication and proven results on homes facing the same UV intensity, temperature swings, and winter weather as yours.
Nevada requires all roofing contractors to hold a valid C-15 Roofing and Siding license issued by the Nevada State Contractors Board. This license confirms the contractor has demonstrated at least four years of verifiable experience in the roofing trade within the past 15 years, passed both business law and trade-specific examinations, and maintains required bonding and insurance coverage. Verifying this license takes just moments through the NSCB online portal but provides essential protection for your investment.
Reno homeowners have access to several highly-regarded roofing contractors with deep roots in the community, from family businesses with over 75 years of local experience to specialized firms holding manufacturer certifications from industry leaders. The key is identifying contractors who combine technical expertise with honest communication and proven results on homes facing the same UV intensity, temperature swings, and winter weather as yours.
When evaluating Reno roofing contractors, verification of Nevada State Contractors Board licensing should be your first step. The NSCB issues C-15 licenses specifically for roofing work, requiring contractors to pass rigorous examinations covering both trade skills and business practices. You can verify any contractor's license status, check for disciplinary actions, and confirm current bond status directly through the Board's online license lookup tool at nvcontractorsboard.com.
Beyond state licensing, look for manufacturer certifications that indicate advanced training and access to enhanced warranty programs. GAF Master Elite contractors, for example, represent only the top three percent of roofing contractors nationally and must maintain specific quality standards. Malarkey Premium Installers, like Mountain Vista Roof Systems here in Reno, have demonstrated expertise with high-performance roofing systems. CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMasters undergo factory training to ensure proper installation techniques.
When meeting with potential contractors, ask specific questions about their experience with Reno's climate challenges. How do they address ice dam prevention in their installations? What underlayment products do they recommend for our intense UV exposure? Have they worked in your specific neighborhood and understand any HOA requirements? Quality contractors welcome these questions and provide detailed answers.
Request written estimates that itemize materials by brand and model, specify warranty terms for both materials and workmanship, outline the project timeline, and confirm who handles permit acquisition. Obtain at least three estimates to compare not just overall project scope but also the specific products and approaches each contractor recommends. Be cautious of bids significantly lower than others, as this often indicates inferior materials or shortcuts in installation.
Watch for red flags including demands for large upfront deposits, door-to-door solicitation following storms, pressure to sign immediately, inability to provide local references, or reluctance to pull required permits. Legitimate contractors understand that informed homeowners make better clients and welcome the opportunity to demonstrate their qualifications.
Beyond state licensing, look for manufacturer certifications that indicate advanced training and access to enhanced warranty programs. GAF Master Elite contractors, for example, represent only the top three percent of roofing contractors nationally and must maintain specific quality standards. Malarkey Premium Installers, like Mountain Vista Roof Systems here in Reno, have demonstrated expertise with high-performance roofing systems. CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMasters undergo factory training to ensure proper installation techniques.
When meeting with potential contractors, ask specific questions about their experience with Reno's climate challenges. How do they address ice dam prevention in their installations? What underlayment products do they recommend for our intense UV exposure? Have they worked in your specific neighborhood and understand any HOA requirements? Quality contractors welcome these questions and provide detailed answers.
Request written estimates that itemize materials by brand and model, specify warranty terms for both materials and workmanship, outline the project timeline, and confirm who handles permit acquisition. Obtain at least three estimates to compare not just overall project scope but also the specific products and approaches each contractor recommends. Be cautious of bids significantly lower than others, as this often indicates inferior materials or shortcuts in installation.
Watch for red flags including demands for large upfront deposits, door-to-door solicitation following storms, pressure to sign immediately, inability to provide local references, or reluctance to pull required permits. Legitimate contractors understand that informed homeowners make better clients and welcome the opportunity to demonstrate their qualifications.
Roofing Materials for Reno
Selecting the right roofing material for a Reno home requires balancing durability, energy efficiency, and climate performance. Each material type offers distinct advantages and limitations when facing the region's intense sun, temperature extremes, and winter weather conditions.
Asphalt shingles remain the most popular choice in Reno, covering approximately 80 percent of residential roofs in the region. Standard three-tab shingles provide an accessible entry point, while architectural shingles offer enhanced durability and a more dimensional appearance. For Reno's high desert climate, cool-roof shingles with reflective granules are highly recommended as they reduce heat absorption and help lower cooling demands during intense summer months. Homeowners can expect 15-25 years of service life from quality asphalt shingles, though the intense UV exposure at elevation may accelerate aging compared to lower-altitude regions.
Metal roofing has emerged as an excellent choice for Northern Nevada properties, offering superior performance that many homeowners find compelling for the long term. Standing seam metal roofs reflect solar heat effectively, resist UV degradation, handle thermal expansion without damage, and shed snow efficiently during winter months. With lifespans reaching 40-60 years and minimal maintenance requirements, metal roofing delivers exceptional long-term value for homeowners planning to stay in their properties.
Clay and concrete tiles deliver exceptional longevity, often lasting 50-100 years with proper maintenance, and provide inherent fire resistance that's particularly important given regional wildfire risks. These materials offer excellent heat resistance and a distinctive southwestern aesthetic that complements many Reno neighborhoods. However, tile systems require quality underlayment since water can penetrate beneath tiles during heavy storms, and the weight demands adequate structural support.
Slate represents the premium option for discerning homeowners, offering unmatched durability exceeding 100 years with proper maintenance. Its exceptional UV and heat resistance make it ideal for Reno's intense sun exposure. Wood shake, once popular in mountain communities, is no longer permitted by Reno building codes due to fire risk and performs poorly in the dry climate where it tends to crack and split.
Asphalt shingles remain the most popular choice in Reno, covering approximately 80 percent of residential roofs in the region. Standard three-tab shingles provide an accessible entry point, while architectural shingles offer enhanced durability and a more dimensional appearance. For Reno's high desert climate, cool-roof shingles with reflective granules are highly recommended as they reduce heat absorption and help lower cooling demands during intense summer months. Homeowners can expect 15-25 years of service life from quality asphalt shingles, though the intense UV exposure at elevation may accelerate aging compared to lower-altitude regions.
Metal roofing has emerged as an excellent choice for Northern Nevada properties, offering superior performance that many homeowners find compelling for the long term. Standing seam metal roofs reflect solar heat effectively, resist UV degradation, handle thermal expansion without damage, and shed snow efficiently during winter months. With lifespans reaching 40-60 years and minimal maintenance requirements, metal roofing delivers exceptional long-term value for homeowners planning to stay in their properties.
Clay and concrete tiles deliver exceptional longevity, often lasting 50-100 years with proper maintenance, and provide inherent fire resistance that's particularly important given regional wildfire risks. These materials offer excellent heat resistance and a distinctive southwestern aesthetic that complements many Reno neighborhoods. However, tile systems require quality underlayment since water can penetrate beneath tiles during heavy storms, and the weight demands adequate structural support.
Slate represents the premium option for discerning homeowners, offering unmatched durability exceeding 100 years with proper maintenance. Its exceptional UV and heat resistance make it ideal for Reno's intense sun exposure. Wood shake, once popular in mountain communities, is no longer permitted by Reno building codes due to fire risk and performs poorly in the dry climate where it tends to crack and split.
Roofing Permits in Reno
Roof replacement in Reno requires a building permit from the City of Reno Development Services Department. All permit applications must be submitted electronically through the ONE Regional Licensing and Permitting portal at www.onenv.us, which serves Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County as a unified regional system.
For straightforward residential roof replacements, homeowners can often use an EZ Permit, which streamlines the process for projects that don't require detailed building plans or discretionary review. The City of Reno adopted the 2024 International Building Code effective July 1, 2025, along with 2024 Northern Nevada Amendments that address regional requirements including snow load specifications and fire resistance standards.
Permits and applications expire after 180 days of inactivity, so it's important to keep projects moving forward once the permit process begins. Extensions are available if needed. Most reputable roofing contractors handle the entire permit process as part of their service, ensuring all documentation is properly filed and inspections are scheduled appropriately.
Inspections can be scheduled through the city's mobile app or online portal, with inspectors providing same-day text notifications about arrival times for convenient scheduling. Working without required permits can result in compliance issues and potential complications when selling your home. Ensuring proper permits and inspections protects your investment and confirms the work meets current building codes designed for Northern Nevada's unique climate demands.
For straightforward residential roof replacements, homeowners can often use an EZ Permit, which streamlines the process for projects that don't require detailed building plans or discretionary review. The City of Reno adopted the 2024 International Building Code effective July 1, 2025, along with 2024 Northern Nevada Amendments that address regional requirements including snow load specifications and fire resistance standards.
Permits and applications expire after 180 days of inactivity, so it's important to keep projects moving forward once the permit process begins. Extensions are available if needed. Most reputable roofing contractors handle the entire permit process as part of their service, ensuring all documentation is properly filed and inspections are scheduled appropriately.
Inspections can be scheduled through the city's mobile app or online portal, with inspectors providing same-day text notifications about arrival times for convenient scheduling. Working without required permits can result in compliance issues and potential complications when selling your home. Ensuring proper permits and inspections protects your investment and confirms the work meets current building codes designed for Northern Nevada's unique climate demands.
Choosing a roofing contractor in Reno
Choosing the right roofing contractor in Reno is crucial given the region's demanding climate conditions. Local experience matters significantly, as contractors familiar with Northern Nevada understand the specific challenges of high desert weather, from ice dam prevention to UV-resistant material selection.
Start by verifying Nevada State Contractors Board licensing, which can be checked online. Look for contractors with manufacturer certifications from brands like GAF, Malarkey, and CertainTeed, as these indicate specialized training and often provide enhanced warranty coverage. BBB accreditation with an A+ rating, like that held by Quality First Home Improvement and East Fork Roofing, demonstrates a commitment to customer service standards.
Several established contractors serve the Reno area with strong reputations. Scott Roofing LLC has operated as a family-owned business since 1948, offering over 75 years of local experience with both residential and commercial projects. Mountain Vista Roof Systems specializes in Northern Nevada climate conditions and is a Malarkey Premium Installer. Sierra Roofing Contractor brings 30+ years of experience and offers 24/7 emergency services for storm damage.
Obtain at least three detailed written estimates that specify materials, labor, warranties, and timeline. Be wary of contractors who demand large upfront deposits, appear after storms soliciting door-to-door, or provide bids significantly below competitors. Quality contractors will handle permit acquisition, provide both workmanship and material warranties, and maintain clear communication throughout your project. Many Reno contractors offer financing options to help manage the investment in your home's protection.
Start by verifying Nevada State Contractors Board licensing, which can be checked online. Look for contractors with manufacturer certifications from brands like GAF, Malarkey, and CertainTeed, as these indicate specialized training and often provide enhanced warranty coverage. BBB accreditation with an A+ rating, like that held by Quality First Home Improvement and East Fork Roofing, demonstrates a commitment to customer service standards.
Several established contractors serve the Reno area with strong reputations. Scott Roofing LLC has operated as a family-owned business since 1948, offering over 75 years of local experience with both residential and commercial projects. Mountain Vista Roof Systems specializes in Northern Nevada climate conditions and is a Malarkey Premium Installer. Sierra Roofing Contractor brings 30+ years of experience and offers 24/7 emergency services for storm damage.
Obtain at least three detailed written estimates that specify materials, labor, warranties, and timeline. Be wary of contractors who demand large upfront deposits, appear after storms soliciting door-to-door, or provide bids significantly below competitors. Quality contractors will handle permit acquisition, provide both workmanship and material warranties, and maintain clear communication throughout your project. Many Reno contractors offer financing options to help manage the investment in your home's protection.
Local Insights
Reno's diverse neighborhoods each present distinct roofing considerations shaped by their architectural character and microclimate conditions. In the historic Old Southwest district near downtown, older homes feature unique architectural details and mature landscaping that can affect roof access and material choices, with many properties requiring careful attention to preserve their historic character while upgrading to modern, fire-resistant materials. The newer master-planned communities of South Meadows and Double Diamond showcase large stucco-style homes with mountain views, where HOA requirements typically mandate earth-tone roofing materials that complement the southwestern aesthetic and coordinate with neighboring properties.
Damonte Ranch offers a mix of single-family homes, condos, and apartments within its master-planned layout, where consistent architectural standards help maintain property values but require homeowners to submit detailed roofing plans for HOA approval before any replacement project. The prestigious Somersett community in northwest Reno encompasses over 3,700 homes surrounding a golf course and recreation center, with strict architectural guidelines that often specify premium roofing materials like tile or architectural shingles in approved color palettes.
Midtown's revitalized urban character features many older converted homes where roof replacements may uncover decades-old materials and require additional structural assessment. Spanish Springs north of Sparks attracts homeowners seeking larger lots and single-family homes, where the open terrain increases wind exposure during storms. The North Valleys communities of Cold Springs, Lemmon Valley, and Stead offer spacious properties including horse acreage, where roofs face particularly harsh conditions from their elevation east of Peavine Mountain. For those in the exclusive Galena and Montreux areas southwest near Mount Rose, forested settings and secluded custom homes demand fire-resistant materials and careful attention to debris accumulation from surrounding trees.
Damonte Ranch offers a mix of single-family homes, condos, and apartments within its master-planned layout, where consistent architectural standards help maintain property values but require homeowners to submit detailed roofing plans for HOA approval before any replacement project. The prestigious Somersett community in northwest Reno encompasses over 3,700 homes surrounding a golf course and recreation center, with strict architectural guidelines that often specify premium roofing materials like tile or architectural shingles in approved color palettes.
Midtown's revitalized urban character features many older converted homes where roof replacements may uncover decades-old materials and require additional structural assessment. Spanish Springs north of Sparks attracts homeowners seeking larger lots and single-family homes, where the open terrain increases wind exposure during storms. The North Valleys communities of Cold Springs, Lemmon Valley, and Stead offer spacious properties including horse acreage, where roofs face particularly harsh conditions from their elevation east of Peavine Mountain. For those in the exclusive Galena and Montreux areas southwest near Mount Rose, forested settings and secluded custom homes demand fire-resistant materials and careful attention to debris accumulation from surrounding trees.
Connecting with the right roofing contractor protects both your immediate project and your home's long-term value. Nevada's licensing requirements exist specifically to ensure contractors have demonstrated competence, but going beyond minimum requirements to find contractors with local expertise and manufacturer certifications provides additional assurance.
Start your search by requesting detailed estimates from established Reno contractors like Scott Roofing, Mountain Vista Roof Systems, or East Fork Roofing. Verify their NSCB license status, check BBB ratings, and ask for references from recent projects in your area. Taking time to find the right partner for your roofing project means working with professionals who understand exactly what your Reno home needs for lasting protection against our demanding high desert climate.
Start your search by requesting detailed estimates from established Reno contractors like Scott Roofing, Mountain Vista Roof Systems, or East Fork Roofing. Verify their NSCB license status, check BBB ratings, and ask for references from recent projects in your area. Taking time to find the right partner for your roofing project means working with professionals who understand exactly what your Reno home needs for lasting protection against our demanding high desert climate.
8
Verified roofing contractors
Verified local contractors serving Reno, Nevada. All contractors are licensed and insured for roofing work in your area.
Highest Rated
Mountain Vista Roof Systems
4.9(40 reviews)
Locally owned, offers free consultations, specializes in Northern Nevada climate conditions
Licensed
Residential roofingRoof replacementRoof maintenanceGutter servicesSolar installation
2
Scott Roofing LLC
4.8
3
East Fork Roofing LLC
4.7
4
Quality First Home Improvement
5
Sierra Roofing Contractor
6
Tahoe Brothers Construction
+ 2 more roofing contractors
More roofing contractors in Reno
Great Basin Roofing LLC
Specialties
Residential roofingCommercial roofing
Serves Washoe Valley and Northern Nevada region
Alpine Roofing Co., Inc.
Specialties
Residential roofingCommercial roofing
Located at 25 Greg Street, Sparks, NV
Ready to Get Started?
Get matched with a licensed roofing contractor in Reno — free estimates, no obligation.
Call (888) 292-4579 - Free QuoteComplete Reno Roof Replacement Guide
Everything you need to know about roof replacement in Reno. Expand any section for details.
Interior Signs
- Water stains on ceilings or walls
- Daylight visible through roof boards in attic
- Mold or mildew growth in attic spaces
- Sagging roof deck visible from inside
- Increased energy bills from poor insulation
Exterior Signs
- Cracked, curled, or buckling shingles
- Missing shingles or tiles
- Bald spots where granules have worn away
- Excessive granules in gutters
- Damaged, loose, or missing flashing
- Sagging or uneven roofline
- Visible moss, algae, or dark streaks
- Rusted or damaged metal components
25% Rule: If damage affects more than 30% of the roof surface, the roof is over 20 years old, or you're experiencing persistent leaks despite repairs, replacement is typically more effective. Reno's climate accelerates aging, so roofs often need replacement sooner than the material's stated lifespan.
Reno at a Glance
Local neighborhoods, climate conditions, and landmarks that influence roofing decisions
Aerial view of Reno Nevada with snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains in the background
Photo by Manny Becerra on Unsplash
Local Climate
Nevada winter blizzard with heavy snowfall covering evergreen trees
Photo by Jasmin Schuler on Unsplash
Local Landmark
Truckee River flowing through downtown Reno Nevada with bridge and city buildings
Photo by Nicholas Ceglia on Unsplash
Residential
Charming residential home exterior in Reno Nevada with ivy-covered facade and mature trees
Photo by Lucky Camera on Pexels
Historic Huffaker Elementary School building in Reno Nevada showcasing classic American architecture
Photo by Michael Villanueva on Pexels
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about roof replacement in Reno, Nevada
Still have questions? Speak with a local expert.
Call (888) 292-4579Get Your Free Roofing Estimate
Fill out the form below and we'll connect you with trusted local contractors in Reno, Nevada.
More Cities in Nevada
Compare roof replacement costs in nearby NV cities
Ready to Get Your Roof Replaced?
Connect with trusted roofing contractors in Reno, Nevada today. Get free estimates from licensed, insured professionals.
Free estimates in 24 hours
Licensed & insured contractors
Top-rated local companies