In Texas, how often you should replace your roof depends heavily on the roofing material, climate exposure, and maintenance history. Here’s a general guideline for Texas homes:
๐ Average Roof Lifespans in Texas
Roofing Material | Average Lifespan in Texas | Notes |
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Asphalt Shingles | 15โ20 years | Hail and heat can shorten life |
Architectural Shingles | 20โ30 years | More durable than 3-tab shingles |
Metal Roof | 40โ70 years | Resistant to wind, fire, and pests |
Clay or Concrete Tile | 40โ50 years | Durable but can crack under hail |
Wood Shingles/Shakes | 20โ30 years | Susceptible to mold and pests |
Slate | 50โ100+ years | High-end, heavy, and long-lasting |
โ๏ธ Why Roofs Wear Faster in Texas
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Extreme Heat: UV rays degrade shingles over time.
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Hail & Storms: North and Central Texas are hail-prone.
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Wind Damage: High winds can lift or tear off shingles.
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Humidity (in East Texas): Increases moss, algae, and rot risks.
๐ Signs You Need to Replace Your Roof
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Curling, cracked, or missing shingles
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Sagging or soft spots on roof decking
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Water leaks or water stains inside
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Mold/mildew in the attic
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Roof is over 20 years old (for asphalt shingles)
๐งฐ Tips to Extend Your Roof Life
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Annual inspections (especially after storms)
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Gutter cleaning and proper attic ventilation
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Prompt repairs of minor damage
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Algae-resistant shingles in humid areas
If you’re in hail-heavy areas like DallasโFort Worth, Waco, or Amarillo, you might need replacement every 10โ15 years for asphalt roofs due to insurance claims from storm damage.
Here’s both a homeowner roof inspection checklist and a guide to filing a roofing insurance claim in Texas:
๐งพ Texas Roof Inspection Checklist (DIY or for contractor use)
Use this checklist once a year (and after major storms):
๐ Visual Exterior Inspection
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โ Missing, cracked, or curling shingles
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โ Loose or exposed nails
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โ Granule loss (check gutters for granules)
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โ Soft or sagging roof areas when walked on (if safe to access)
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โ Rusted, bent, or loose flashing (around vents, chimneys, etc.)
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โ Cracked or missing caulking/sealant
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โ Moss, algae, or mildew growth
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โ Visible hail or wind damage (dents, bruises, torn shingles)
๐ง Interior Inspection (Attic & Ceiling)
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โ Water stains or discoloration on ceilings
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โ Signs of active leaks (wet insulation, wood rot)
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โ Mold or mildew smell
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โ Daylight coming through the roof boards
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โ Proper attic ventilation and insulation intact
๐ช Gutter & Drainage Check
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โ Clean, clog-free gutters and downspouts
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โ No sagging or separated gutter sections
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โ No signs of water pooling around foundation
Tip: Take clear photos of any damage โ these are vital for insurance claims.
๐ ๏ธ How To File a Roofing Insurance Claim in Texas
1. Document the Damage
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Take photos/videos of roof and interior damage
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Save newspaper articles or online alerts about the storm
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Write the date/time the damage occurred (important for claims)
2. Contact Your Home Insurance Provider
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Notify them ASAP (within a few days of the storm is best)
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Ask how long you have to file the claim (varies by policy)
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Request a claim number and the name of your assigned adjuster
3. Schedule a Roof Inspection
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Some insurance companies will send their own adjuster
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You can also have a licensed roofing contractor inspect first (many offer free inspections)
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A contractorโs written report can help dispute a denial
4. Get Estimates
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Get at least 2โ3 quotes from reputable, insured roofers
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Make sure they include materials, labor, permits, and timelines
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Donโt sign anything labeled “Assignment of Benefits” unless you fully understand it โ it can transfer your insurance rights to the contractor
5. Meet with the Adjuster
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Have your contractor present if possible
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Show them your documentation, photos, and inspection report
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Ask questions and take notes
6. Review Your Settlement
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The adjuster will send a repair estimate and whatโs covered
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The payout may be split into two checks: initial + depreciation (released after work is completed)
7. Get Work Done
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Once insurance approves, schedule the roof work
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Keep records of all invoices and correspondence
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Some insurers require final inspection before releasing final payment
โ ๏ธ Texas Tips & Warnings
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After a storm, “storm chasers” (out-of-state roofers) may show up โ check for Texas licensing, insurance, and reviews
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Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) protects you from fraud. Visit: https://www.tdi.texas.gov
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If your claim is denied or underpaid, you can request a reinspection or hire a public adjuster
Always keep up with regular roofing inspections to ensure your roof remains in good shape. Contact the team at Roof Pros Dallas for more information!
Residential & Commercial Roofing Services By Roof Pros Dallas, Inc.
If you are searching for commercial or residential roofing services in Addison, Arlington, Dallas, Fort Worth, Garland, Mesquite, or Plano, TX, Roof Pros Dallas, Inc. is here for you! You can trust the reliable repair service and high-quality materials we use for each and every project. From a small roofing repair to a complete replacement, the team at Roof Pros Dallas, Inc has you covered! Contact our experienced team today!