Frequently Asked Questions About Houston Roofing

Most asphalt shingle roofs around South Texas last 15-20 years, which is shorter than the national average due to extreme weather conditions. Premium materials like metal (30-50 years), clay tile (50+ years), or slate (75+ years) offer longer lifespans despite harsh regional conditions.

For a typical 2,000 sq ft home in Houston, Texas:

  • Asphalt shingles: $10,000-$16,500
  • Metal roofing: $18,400-$35,000
  • Clay/concrete tile: $25,300-$43,750
  • Slate: $34,500-$56,250

Look for contractors who:

  • Have established local presence (5+ years in community)
  • Comply with Texas state and local licensing (requirements vary by municipality)
  • Carry general liability insurance ($1M minimum) and workers’ compensation
  • Are certified by major roofing manufacturers like GAF Master Elite, Owens Corning Preferred, and others
  • Are members of regional associations such as Roofing Contractors Association of Texas
  • Can provide local references from your specific community
  • Have a high rating on local roofing business directories such as HoustonRoofingNearMe.com and Google Business Profiles

Yes, coastal Texas properties require:

  • Corrosion-resistant materials (aluminum, certain coated steels, or special composites)
  • Wind-resistant installation methods with additional fasteners
  • Waterproofing underlayment to prevent saltwater intrusion
  • Regular maintenance to address salt buildup and moisture issues

Texas has specific insurance claim processes:

  • Texas allows two years from date of damage to file claims
  • Texas has specific protections against improper claim denials
  • The Texas Department of Insurance offers consumer protection resources
  • Most policies in Texas have moved to percentage-based deductibles (typically 1-2% of home value) rather than fixed amounts
  • Recent legislation in Texas has targeted “storm chaser” contractors who manipulate the claims process

Due to extreme heat and weather conditions in South Texas:

  • Twice yearly inspections are recommended (spring and fall)
  • Additional inspection after any significant storm event (hail, high winds)
  • Focus on flashing, pipe boots, and sealants that deteriorate faster in extreme temperature fluctuations
  • Inspection of attic ventilation systems critical for preventing heat-related shingle damage

For Houston, Texas homes, “cool roof” materials with high solar reflectance are ideal:

  • Metal roofing with reflective coatings
  • Concrete or clay tiles (particularly lighter colors)
  • Specially designed “cool” asphalt shingles with reflective granules
  • TPO or PVC membrane roofing for flat or low-slope roofs

These materials can reduce attic temperatures by 20-40 degrees and can cut air conditioning costs by 15-30%.

Yes, most municipalities require permits for roof replacements and large repair areas.

  • Most Texas cities require permits for new roofs, decking repairs, or when changing materials
  • Permit costs typically range from $70-$300 depending on location and project scope
  • The City of Houston requires a permit for most large roof repairs and replacements

Texas building codes vary by municipality but generally include:

  • Energy efficiency requirements under the Texas Energy Code
  • Special requirements in coastal regions and Historic district architectural requirements in certain areas 
  • Houston enforces IRC and IBC international building codes

Following major storms in Houston and South Texas:

  • Local contractors can become overwhelmed with calls, estimates, insurance claims and emergency roof replacements (sometimes handling 5-10× normal volume)
  • Shortages of roofing materials may occur if suppliers cannot meet sudden demand
  • Insurance agents and adjusters experience long backlogs, potentially delaying claim approvals

    All together, delays can exceed 3-6 months after major storms in damaged areas.

Local area labor considerations include:

  • Seasonal labor fluctuations with shortages during peak seasons (spring/summer)
  • Higher costs during storm seasons when demand spikes
  • Training and certification gaps with rapid industry growth
  • Labor shortage in rural areas requiring travel costs from Houston’s urban areas
  • Increasing labor costs (15-25% rise over the past three years)
  • Federal immigration policy changes and enforcement

Yes, several programs offer benefits:

  • Federal tax credits for ENERGY STAR certified roofing materials (up to 30% of material costs)
  • Texas utilities (including CPS and CenterPoint) provide rebates for reflective roof coatings
  • Property tax incentives in Houston and other municipalities for certain energy-efficient roof installations
  • Reduced insurance premiums for impact-resistant materials (up to 28% discount in high-risk areas)
  • Houston’s Under 1 Roof program offers incentives, credits and rebates for green roofs, solar installations and insulation systems