If you dwelt in Texas for more than a few seasons, you know the saying is true: the awesome things the state possesses are counterbalanced by terrible ones. There is searing summer heat, the sudden spring hailstorms, dry west winds, and, not to mention, the occasional February polar vortex. All of these affairs are striking, in a rather savage manner, on roofs.

For homeowners, this climate presents real problems. It is not an issue of roofs for the aesthetics and curb appeal of a house. Rather, the climate is a roof to guide a house in extreme weather conditions. If you have damage, intend to replace a roof, or are in a situation of building a house from scratch, your knowledge of the Texas weather's influence on different roofing materials and the decision you make holds a lot of value.


The Texas Climate: Beautiful, But Tough on Roofs

The amount of varied weather means many different things for the roofing materials and roofing plans and decisions for a location. Centrals in Texas have to bear the heat and sun for entire months. North Texas has rather wet weather, hail, and even the occasional snow blizzard. Coastal regions are plagued by high humidity and hurricanes, and West Texas is just dry.

A roof in Texas goes beyond serving as a lid for a house in Texas. A roof in Texas provides defense. A Texas roof must endure the glaring sun, torrential rains, banging debris, and other extreme vs. elemental exposure. Not every roofing material can offer the same protection.


Asphalt Shingles: Affordable, But Not Always Long-Lasting

In Texas, asphalt roof shingles are classy, easy to install, and cost-effective. Because of these attributes, Texas homeowners use them. As well, the rest of the United States uses asphalt roof shingles. Shingles are a nice roofing choice countrywide, and Texas homeowners use them for the same reasons. With asphalt shingles, you can create an alluring custom design at an affordable cost. Along with being able to paint them in a wide variety of colors to match the desired attire of your house.

The sun, over the years, can and will cause the roof shingles to curl, crack, and lose protective granules. The Texas shingle roof is prone to hail. Asphalt or shingles can and will tear and bruise. Taped shingles will cause hidden leaks and will become heavy and require repairs. Though it’s a shame, they are not the best choice. Expect to spend more on maintenance if Adobe is in use.

Metal Roofing: Metal Is Built to Take a Beating

Apart from shingles, metal roofs certainly are more durable and also more common in Texas. These roofs also reflect sunlight and keep the building cooler; this is especially useful when it is 105 degrees outside and your AC is struggling. These roofs also outperform shingles when it comes to wind, hail, and storms; if the metal roofs are installed correctly, they are much more durable.

It is common for people to worry about how loud the rain is while a storm is passing, but new-age insulation has made this noise almost nonexistent. In this instance, the metal roofs certainly lack a few benefits. When it comes to the price, the metal roofs DO offer energy efficiency and peace of mind, and they will also outlast shingles. These roofs are much more cost-effective and offer many more benefits when it comes to long-term savings, unlike asphalt.

Clay and Concrete Tile Roofs: Great in Heat, Risky in Storms

If you are someone who drives around and looks for outstanding roofs that can be found in places like San Antonio or El Paso, then you must be aware of the beautiful tile roofs that give homes a Mediterranean or Southwestern vibe.

These roofs are more than just pleasing to the eye; they also work wonders when it comes to blocking heat and increasing airflow, which keeps attics cooler. Tile roofs are not perfect. They are heavy and will need extra structural support from the house. Even in hot, sunny areas, they still suffer from hailstorm fractures that are capable of springing leaks. Tile roofs are truly better in certain parts of Texas than in others.

Flat Roofs: Stylish, But High Maintenance

Like most unconventional features in Texas, flat roofs are also regarded with a degree of skepticism. The heavy rain Texas is notorious for causes quite a bit of disturbance if proper drainage systems are not put in place. Flat roofs also lose their structural integrity when the supporting structure fails to provide balance. Without balance, the flat tops will require additional support.


What Texas Homeowners Should Keep in Mind

Selecting a roof for a home is more complex than simply looking at the materials. Picking the proper roof depends on the location, in this case, Texas, and the surrounding challenges. People who live in Austin and Dallas may want to consider hail resistance and UV protection. If it is coastal, attention could be geared more toward protection from wind and moisture. Out West, it is primarily heat and dust.

Market value, the structure of the home, and the intended duration of the stay are some of the other considerations. While some materials may be more expensive initially, they last longer than others. Alternatively, some materials are easier to repair but have a shorter lifespan.

With the weather in Texas, it is always a good option to consult a roofing specialist. They will help you address all of these issues and come up with a solution that is appropriate for you and your home.

Maintenance of the Roof in a Texas Climate

Regardless of the roofing materials, the most effective tactic is preventive care. Inspections, especially after significant storms, can help catch the small issues and repair them before they escalate. Cleaning the gutters, pruning the branches directly above the roof, and inspecting for missing tiles and shingles are small efforts that could yield great returns.

It also helps to foster a bond with a reputable local roofer. That way, when things go wrong, you already have someone to contact. During a hailstorm or an urgent fix, you want to avoid the tendency to search for assistance.

Your roof’s covering is not the only part exposed to the wrath of Texas weather. With adequate materials, correct setup, and a little upkeep, the home will be able to withstand the worst Texas has to offer, no matter what is thrown at it.

Final Thoughts: Choose Smart, Prepare Well, and Stay Protected

If you are constructing, renewing, or just considering a roof, it is best to have a good understanding of it. This is the only way you will be ready to tackle the Texas weather. This is smart decision-making.

When confused, it is advisable to consult with a roofing professional. They understand what works and what does not in regard to your particular location. Remember, a roof is not just another component of the house. It also offers the first layer of protection from the fierce, untamed Texas beauty.