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Several factors need to be considered when you are choosing the best roofing materials for Texas homes, including your budget, HOA restrictions, and how much weather protection you actually need. In this roofing materials guide, we are breaking down the basics, so you have an overview of the most common materials used on DFW roofs.
Our expert roofing team understands how these materials perform in North Texas conditions, and we’ll help you find the ideal solutions for your home.
Why DFW’s Climate Is Unique
Did you know that Dallas has the highest occurrence of hail insurance claims? Roofing that holds up in mild climates might fail in the harsh conditions that occur during a North Texas storm, which is why it’s critical to choose the right materials for your new roof.
A variety of factors can take a toll on roofing materials over time, including heat, UV exposure, and thermal shock. The roofing materials expand and contract on a daily basis, which can cause degradation and shingle cracks over time. As a result, the roof’s life is shorter than normal.
In the DFW area, you need to make sure that you have roofing materials with a class 4 impact-resistant rating. In fact, some insurance providers will offer premium discounts (ranging between 20-30%) when you choose materials that qualify, which helps to offset your out-of-pocket costs.
The 5 Best Roofing Materials for Texas Homes: Pros, Cons & Costs
Here are the best roofing materials for our DFW climate, based on the many projects and homes that we’ve seen over the years:
- Architectural Asphalt Shingles: It’s easy to see why these shingles are the standard for homes in DFW. Not only are they cost-effective, but when these shingles are installed properly with underlayment, they can often last for 15-20 years, even in the intense weather conditions here in Texas.
- Class 4 Impact-Resistant Shingles: If you are making a roof material comparison and looking for the smartest upgrade, then consider these class 4 shingles. They are effective when hailstorms come through. These shingles are engineered to absorb the hail impact without cracking.
- Metal Roofing: For the best long-term results, consider metal roofing. There’s a reason why metal is known as the best roof for Texas weather because it can handle heat, hail, and UV better than other available roofing materials. Plus, a metal roof has an anticipated lifespan of 40-70 years. Even though the upfront costs are higher, there is an undeniable long-term value.
- Clay and Concrete Tile: If you are looking for something that is beautiful and offers great performance in high-heat conditions, then you might consider tile. But these materials are heavy, so a structural evaluation is essential. Plus, these materials aren’t ideal for hail, which is why they are more commonly used in west Texas and hill country.
- Slate Roofing: For property owners who aren’t limited by budget, slate can be a great solution. Not only does it last for a century (or more), but it looks great. But slate isn’t the right choice for all installations, especially because of the high upfront costs and weight requirement limitations.
The Complete System to Ensure Optimal Performance of Roofing Materials for DFW Climate
While the shingles that you choose will have an impact on the durability of your roof, it’s just as important to look beyond the shingles and at the overall roofing system. For example, the condition of the roof decking will have an undeniable effect on how well any material performs. If you put new shingles over OSB that is deteriorating, then you can expect problems.
The quality of the underlayment also matters. Even when shingles start to fail, the underlayment provides another layer of protection to avoid damage to your home.
Additionally, it’s important to understand how attic ventilation can affect shingle durability. When the ventilation is good, it helps to prevent heat from getting trapped in the attic, which decreases the risk of faster degradation over time. In fact, poor attic ventilation can even void manufacturer warranties because of the potential damage to the roofing materials.
In addition to roofing installation and repair, we also offer a full range of services to protect your home’s exterior. Other available services include solar installation, window replacement, gutters, and more. Contact us today to discuss your goals and get a free estimate for your project.