Quick Jump → When to call a roofer in Texas → How to shortlist great roofers → What to ask during estimates → Common roofing problems contractors should prevent → Quotes, pricing, and contracts → Hail and insurance claim basics → Storm-chaser scams to avoid → Fast answers (FAQ) → Vetting checklist A great roofer […]
Quick Jump
A great roofer doesn’t just “put on shingles” — they protect your home from Texas hail, wind, heat, and humidity with a system that’s built to last.
Whether you’re replacing an aging roof in Central Texas, repairing storm damage in North Texas, or upgrading for better wind resistance near the coast, your results depend on the contractor you choose. This guide walks you through how to spot quality, compare quotes confidently, and avoid the most common roofing mistakes and scams.
Use it as a homeowner’s playbook: what to prepare before you call, what to ask during estimates, what should be in the contract, and what “red flags” should end the conversation immediately.
When to call a roofer in Texas
Texas roofs take a beating. Extreme heat bakes shingles, UV breaks down sealants, and sudden storms can create damage that isn’t obvious until you see a stain on the ceiling. If you’re seeing any of the signs below, it’s worth getting a professional inspection (and photos) before a small issue turns into sheathing rot or mold.
Common “call now” triggers include: missing or lifted shingles, granules collecting in gutters, new interior water stains, soft spots on the roof deck, loose flashing around chimneys/vents, or a roof that’s approaching the end of its expected lifespan. After a hail event, even if you don’t see leaks, a qualified roofer can document impact marks, bruising, and compromised seals.
If your home is in a high-wind or coastal area, ask your roofer about wind-rated installation methods and any additional inspection or documentation that may be required for certain windstorm coverage. Local requirements can vary, so a contractor who regularly works your county is a major advantage.
How to shortlist great roofers
Start by narrowing to contractors who are established in your area and willing to prove it. In many parts of Texas, there isn’t a single statewide roofing license you can look up the way you might for other trades, so your screening needs to focus on insurance, documentation, workmanship track record, and clear written scope.
A strong shortlist usually has 3 companies. Fewer and you risk overpaying; more and you’ll get overwhelmed comparing apples to oranges. Your goal is to compare the same scope, material grade, and warranty terms across each bid.
Focus on roofers who: carry current liability insurance and workers’ comp (or a legal equivalent), provide a detailed written estimate, can show recent local projects, explain ventilation and flashing (not just shingles), and have a physical presence you can verify (not just a temporary storm “office”).
What to ask during estimates
The best roofers educate you during the estimate. They’ll walk the roof (or use safe drone/photos where appropriate), check ventilation intake/exhaust, inspect flashing and penetrations, and explain what they’re seeing — with photos you can keep. If the “estimate” is a number scribbled on a card, keep shopping.
Ask these questions and listen for specific, confident answers:
What exactly are you replacing? A roof is a system: underlayment, drip edge, flashing, vents, pipe boots, and ridge components matter as much as the shingle.
How will you handle decking issues? Good contractors plan for the possibility of replacing damaged sheathing and spell out how it’s priced (per sheet) and approved (photos, change order).
How will you protect my property? Look for clear answers about landscaping protection, magnetic nail sweeps, dumpster placement, and daily cleanup.
Who is actually doing the work? Many roofers use crews. That’s normal — but you want a named project manager, clear supervision, and accountability in writing.
What warranties do I get? Separate the manufacturer warranty (materials) from the workmanship warranty (installation). A “lifetime roof” claim is meaningless without details and exclusions.
Common roofing problems contractors should prevent
1 Flashing shortcuts that cause “mystery leaks”
Leaks often start at transitions: chimneys, walls, valleys, skylights, and pipe penetrations. A great roofer details flashing properly and replaces worn components instead of smearing caulk and hoping for the best.
2 Poor ventilation that cooks your roof from below
Texas heat punishes attics. Without balanced intake and exhaust, shingles can age faster and moisture can accumulate. A pro calculates ventilation needs and explains how they’ll improve airflow — not just add a random vent.
3 Wrong underlayment for the roof and region
Underlayment is your backup water barrier. Cutting corners here can lead to leaks in wind-driven rain. Your estimate should specify the underlayment type and where ice-and-water style protection (or equivalent) is used in valleys and vulnerable areas.
4 “Roof-over” installs that hide problems
Installing new shingles over old layers can be allowed in some situations, but it can also hide deck issues, reduce shingle life, and complicate future repairs. A quality roofer explains the pros/cons for your home and codes, instead of defaulting to the fastest option.
5 Fastener mistakes that lead to blow-offs
High winds expose bad nailing patterns, incorrect nail length, and overdriven fasteners. Your contractor should follow the manufacturer’s installation requirements and adjust methods for high-wind zones where applicable.
6 Cleanup failures that create costly damage
Nails in driveways, torn gutters, crushed plants, and stained concrete are preventable. Great roofers plan protection upfront and do multiple magnetic sweeps, not just one quick pass.
7 Vague warranties that disappear when you need them
Some contractors promise big warranties but exclude flashing, ventilation, or “storm-related” issues — which is exactly when homeowners call. A reputable roofer provides clear, written workmanship coverage and explains what’s included.
Quotes, pricing, and contracts
The cheapest bid is often missing something important. The most expensive bid isn’t automatically better either. What you want is a complete scope, line-item clarity, and a contractor who can justify their approach with specifics.
A professional roofing estimate should clearly list the material brand/line, underlayment type, ventilation plan, flashing scope, drip edge, ridge/hip components, disposal, and any potential add-ons (like decking replacement) with transparent pricing. If it’s a one-line total, you can’t compare it fairly.
For the contract, pay special attention to: payment schedule (avoid large upfront payments), start and completion expectations, change-order rules (how additional work is approved), who pulls permits if needed, and what documentation you receive at the end (photos, warranty registration, invoice marked paid).
Hail and insurance claim basics
After a Texas hailstorm, it’s common to get a flood of roof “inspectors” at your door. Slow down and document everything. Take date-stamped photos around the property, note any interior leaks, and keep a simple timeline of who you spoke to and when.
A trustworthy roofer can help you understand roofing damage and produce photo documentation, but be cautious about anyone who pressures you to sign sweeping paperwork on the spot. If you’re filing an insurance claim, keep control of your claim and make sure you understand what you’re signing, what it authorizes, and how you can cancel if needed.
If you’re not sure whether damage is repairable or requires replacement, get multiple professional opinions with photos and written findings. That way, you’re making decisions based on evidence — not urgency.
Storm-chaser scams to avoid
“Free roof” promises that rely on shady paperwork
Be wary of anyone guaranteeing a free roof before your claim is approved. If the sales pitch is bigger than the inspection, that’s a problem. Get everything in writing and avoid signing documents you don’t fully understand.
High-pressure “today only” pricing
Great contractors don’t need countdown clocks. If someone insists you must sign immediately to “lock in materials,” pause and compare with other roofers who can provide the same scope in writing.
No proof of insurance (or “we’ll send it later”)
If a roofer can’t provide current insurance documentation, don’t let them on your roof. This is one of the fastest ways homeowners get exposed to liability and costly disputes.
Big cash deposit demands before materials arrive
A small scheduling deposit can be normal, but large upfront payments are risky. Your payment schedule should track real progress: materials delivered, tear-off complete, install complete, and final walkthrough.
“We found extra damage” without photos or change orders
Decking and flashing surprises happen — but professionals document them. Require photos and a written change order with pricing before any additional work is performed.
Fast answers (FAQ)
- How many roofing quotes should I get?
- Three is the sweet spot for most Texas homeowners. It’s enough to compare scope and pricing without turning the process into a confusing spreadsheet of mismatched materials and promises.
- How long does a roof replacement usually take?
- Many standard single-family homes can be completed in a day or two, but timing depends on roof size, pitch, decking repairs, weather, and material complexity. A quality contractor gives you realistic expectations and daily communication.
- Do I need a permit for a new roof in Texas?
- It depends on your city and county. Some areas require permits or inspections, others don’t, and rules can vary by project scope. Your roofer should know local requirements and clearly state who is responsible for permitting.
- Should I repair or replace after hail?
- It depends on the extent and type of damage. Localized issues may be repairable, while widespread impact marks, bruising, or compromised seals can shorten roof life. Get photo documentation and compare at least two professional assessments.
- Is “architectural” shingle worth it?
- Often, yes. Architectural shingles typically offer better durability and wind performance than basic three-tab options. The best choice still depends on your budget, roof design, and whether you’re prioritizing hail resistance, aesthetics, or energy efficiency.
- What should I never accept in a roofing contract?
- Avoid vague scope, missing material specs, unclear warranty terms, and payment terms that require a large percentage upfront. You should also be cautious with paperwork you don’t understand, especially anything that gives broad control over your insurance claim.
Vetting checklist
Use this checklist to quickly separate premium contractors from sales-driven installers. If a roofer can’t confidently meet these points, keep looking.
- Local track record: They can show recent projects in your area and provide references you can actually reach.
- Insurance proof: They provide current documentation for liability and worker coverage (not a verbal promise).
- Written scope: The estimate lists materials, underlayment, flashing, ventilation, disposal, and cleanup — not just a total price.
- Photo documentation: They provide inspection photos and explain what you’re seeing in plain language.
- Ventilation plan: They address intake and exhaust balance, not just “adding a vent.”
- Decking policy: They explain how decking repairs are found, documented, approved, and priced.
- Clear supervision: You know who the project manager is and how you’ll reach them during the job.
- Workmanship warranty: It’s written, specific, and separate from the manufacturer materials warranty.
- Reasonable payments: The schedule is tied to progress, with a clear final payment after walkthrough and cleanup.
- Professional closeout: You receive final photos, warranty documentation, and a paid invoice for your records.