Question 1

What’s the best shingle for Central Texas?

Accepted Answer

For most homes, an architectural shingle with SBS-modified asphalt (like Owens Corning Duration Flex or GAF Grand Sequoia AS) hits the sweet spot: 25-year lifespan, Class 4 impact rating, and a reasonable price. If you plan to stay 20+ years, metal is worth the upgrade.

Question 2

Are metal roofs really that much better?

Accepted Answer

For lifespan, yes — 40–70 years versus 20–25 for shingles. But they cost 2–3x upfront, and improperly detailed metal roofs leak just as badly as shingles. The installer matters more than the material.

Question 3

What’s the difference between Class 3 and Class 4 shingles?

Accepted Answer

Impact resistance rating from UL 2218 testing. Class 3 survives 1.75" steel ball impacts; Class 4 survives 2" impacts. Class 4 shingles typically qualify for a homeowner’s insurance discount in Texas — sometimes 20–30%.

Question 4

Do tile roofs need special structure?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Concrete tile weighs 9–12 lbs per sq ft; clay 6–10. Many stick-built homes weren’t engineered for tile and need structural reinforcement before installation.

Material	Lifespan	Wind rating	Hail	Cost	Ideal for
Architectural shingle	18–25 yrs	110–130 mph	Class 3	$	Most homes — the price-to-lifespan sweet spot.
Designer shingle	25–30 yrs	130 mph	Class 3–4	$$	High-visibility homes where curb appeal matters.
Class 4 impact-resistant	25–30 yrs	130 mph	Class 4	$$	Hail-prone areas — often earns an insurance discount.
Standing seam metal	40–70 yrs	150+ mph	Excellent	$$$	Modern homes, hill country, and long-term owners.
Concrete tile	50+ yrs	150 mph	Very good	$$$$	Mediterranean and Spanish-style architecture.
Clay tile	75+ yrs	150 mph	Very good	$$$$$	Historic and luxury homes with sufficient structure.

Every roofing material, honestly compared.

The full comparison table

Who we install — and why

How to actually choose

Material FAQs