As a homeowner in Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Leander, Harker Heights, Temple, and the surrounding Central Texas region, you likely have questions about your roof—especially after severe weather events. At Verstera Roofing, we've compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions we receive from our clients.
Whether you're dealing with storm damage, planning a replacement, or simply trying to understand the roofing process, this comprehensive guide will help you make informed decisions about one of your home's most important investments.
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Storm Damage & Inspections
How do I know if my roof has hail or windstorm damage?
After a storm, you may notice shingles lifted, bruised, cracked, granule loss, dents on metal components, or leaks. However, most hail damage can be difficult to see from the ground. We recommend conducting a physical inspection on top of the roof itself.
You can perform this yourself if you feel safe doing so, or you can schedule an assessment with a reputable local roofing company. We provide free, photo-documented inspections along with a detailed report of any damage found, giving you the clear information you need to decide whether to file an insurance claim or take the next appropriate step.
How soon after a storm should I get inspected?
Immediately. Insurance companies allow only limited time windows for claims, and early documentation ensures the adjuster can't deny damage due to delay. The sooner you have professional documentation of storm damage, the stronger your insurance claim will be.
How often should I get my roof inspected?
There's no right or wrong answer here, but we recommend every 2-3 years, and after EVERY big hail or wind storm. The reason is that if you do have storm damage, you should get photo documented evidence of it in case you want to file an insurance claim to pay for the required repairs.
Roofing Costs & Pricing
How much does a new roof cost in Texas?
New roof costs vary widely, depending on roof size and desired material. For asphalt shingles in Central Texas, replacement typically ranges from $10,000–$25,000 for small to average home sizes, as of summer of 2025. Premium materials like metal, stone coated steel, or tile cost more.
If covered by insurance, your only out-of-pocket cost is your deductible—which is illegal to waive according to the Texas Department of Insurance.
Do I have to pay my deductible?
Yes. Texas law (HB 2102) requires homeowners to pay their deductible. Any contractor who "waives" or "absorbs" it is violating state law. We provide the proper paperwork (Certificate of Completion, RCV/ACV documentation, etc.) to ensure your claim and deductible are handled legally.
Why are some roofers offering to "pay my deductible"?
Because they're breaking the law to win your business. Texas law (HB 2102) prohibits deductible waiving. This often leads to fraudulent claims, low-grade material usage, and poor workmanship. We follow the law and provide transparent, ethical roofing.
We're a veteran owned business, so integrity first and doing the right thing (even if it means losing business) is more than just a buzzword to us.
Do you offer financing?
Yes, we offer financing options with competitive rates for upgrades or non-covered work. Most homeowners receive same-day pre-qualification.
Insurance Claims Process
Should I call my insurance company or a roofer first?
It really comes down to your personal preference—there's no single "correct" order. Some homeowners like to start with a roofer so they can get a free, photo-documented inspection and confirm whether the damage is substantial enough to warrant a claim. Others prefer to contact their insurance company first and use contractors recommended through their network.
Both approaches are valid as long as you work with people you trust. Make sure your roofer provides clear photo evidence of any damage, and ensure your insurer is recommending contractors based on quality—not just lowest cost. The goal is simply to have accurate information so you can make the best decision for your home.
How long does the insurance claim process take?
Most storm-damage claims take 7–14 days for an adjuster appointment and 1–3 weeks for approval. Once approved, we can usually schedule your roof replacement within a few days, assuming material availability.
Will my insurance go up if I file a claim?
Not individually. Storm claims fall under "Acts of God", and increases are based on regional storm history—not your personal claim. Your premiums won't rise just because you filed.
Can you meet my insurance adjuster for me?
Yes. We meet the adjuster at your property to ensure all damage is documented. This protects you from a partial or underpaid claim.
Roofing Materials & Installation
What roofing materials do you install?
We install premium hail resistant asphalt shingles, metal roofing, stone coated steel, tile roofing, synthetic underlayment, ice & water shield, ridge vents, and full roofing systems from leading manufacturers like Owens Corning, TAMKO, GAF, Malarkey, and CertainTeed.
How long does it take to replace a roof?
Most asphalt-shingle residential roofs are completed in one day. Larger or specialty roofs (metal, tile, steep pitch) may take 2–3 days.
What is the difference between repair and replacement?
A repair addresses local issues like leaks or missing shingles. A full replacement is needed when damage is widespread or when repairs would compromise roof integrity. After storms, insurance typically covers full replacement if the damage meets their threshold. That threshold varies by insurance provider, but often is 6-10 unique hail strikes per slope.
Warranties & Protection
What warranties do you offer?
You receive both a manufacturer warranty, which covers the roofing materials, and a workmanship warranty, which covers our labor and installation. We offer three tiers of protection: a 10-year warranty, an extended 15-year option, and premium 30–50-year coverage depending on the roofing system you choose.
We also provide additional third-party protection through Contractor Directorii, including a $30,000 deposit protection guarantee to safeguard you against contractor fraud or bankruptcy, and a $250,000 workmanship and material guarantee for added peace of mind.
Choosing the Right Contractor
How do I pick the right roofing contractor?
Review our article on this very topic here, and look for our checklist.
Otherwise, look for:
- Local presence (not storm chasers)
- Membership in local community, Chamber of Commerce, etc
- Google Reviews, Facebook, BBB, etc reviews
- Certification with major manufacturers
- Third-party backing with organizations like Austin's Contractor Verified or the nationwide Contractor Directorii.
- Proof of insurance
- Extended workmanship warranties
Roof Maintenance in Central Texas
How often should I conduct roof maintenance in Central Texas?
Ideally, once a year at least. In Central Texas, it makes the most sense to do this in the early winter months, after all the autumn leaves have fallen, and prior to the spring rainy season.
At Verstera Roofing, we recommend you or your roofer complete the five following roof maintenance tasks every year:
- Conduct a general shingle condition check – Look for granule loss on your shingles from overheating and age; look for nail pops, where the roofing nails are popping back upwards through the shingle above as this can cause leaks; and look for signs of hail or wind damage to your shingles. Check out our social media videos if you need help identifying these potential issues, or reach out to us to schedule an inspection and we'd be more than happy to help out.
- Clean all debris and organic materials from your roof (especially the valleys) – Organic material, such as sticks and leaves, decay and build up over time. If left unchecked, this can cause blockages to water flow runoff, causing pooling of water on top of your shingles. Water pooling on top of shingles almost always leads to roof leaks. Shingles are not waterproof; they are water shedding. If the water is not shedding properly, then you've got problems.
- Re-seal around all roof vents, accessories, and penetrations – Anything that penetrates your roof—skylights, vents, pipes—is a potential leak point and must be properly flashed and sealed. At Verstera Roofing, we've completed thousands upon thousands of roof inspections for our clients. We've noticed that even roof-approved sealant tends to dry rot and break down every 3-5 years in the Central Texas summer heat. This often leads to leaks right below pipe jacks and vents. Re-sealing every few years is an easy, low-cost preventative step (about $10 and 10 minutes) that can save hundreds or thousands in repairs. If you're not comfortable on the roof, get professional help—we are happy to assist. Book your maintenance appointment here.
- Seal overtop any exposed or rusty nail heads – Exposed nail heads will eventually rust, allowing water to seep through tiny gaps and into the attic. While the leak may start small, it can become a serious problem over time. Sealing over exposed nail heads will prevent this from happening. Once again, make sure to use roof-approved sealant.
- Clean your gutters – Gutters should be cleaned at least once a year to remove leaves and debris. This keeps water flowing properly and helps extend the life of your gutters and fascia. When gutters aren't cleaned, they can overflow, become heavy, and cause costly fascia rot. Replacing fascia is expensive—cleaning your gutters isn't.
Once again, be careful! If you are not comfortable climbing up on top of your roof or cleaning out your gutters, reach out for expert help by clicking here and filling out the form.
Final Thoughts
Your roof is one of the most important investments in your home, and understanding the basics of roofing maintenance, storm damage, and the insurance process can save you time, money, and stress.
At Verstera Roofing, we're committed to providing honest, transparent service to homeowners throughout Central Texas. Whether you need a storm damage inspection, a full roof replacement, or just have questions about your current roof, our team is here to help.
Have more questions? Don't hesitate to reach out. We offer free consultations and inspections throughout the Austin and Central Texas area.
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