Hudson Roofing Company: 25 Years of Protecting Texas Homes with Expert Roof Installation & Storm Damage Repair

I have been a roofing contractor for over twenty-five years. My team at Hudson Roofing Company has completed more than four thousand roofing projects across Texas. We hold certifications from GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning. We are also licensed and insured for your protection. This experience gives me real knowledge about roofing problems. I want to share this knowledge with you today. This article exists to solve a common homeowner problem. Many people feel confused and overwhelmed when they need a new roof. They do not know who to trust or what questions to ask. This guide will answer those questions clearly. It will help you make smart decisions about your roof. You will learn how to choose the right materials. You will understand the installation process. You will know how to handle storm damage claims. This information comes from my daily work on real homes. I gathered it from customer projects and industry data. I studied manufacturer specifications and local building codes. My recommendations are based on proven methods that work. I will explain my methodology throughout this article. My goal is to save you time and prevent costly mistakes. A good roof protects your family and your biggest investment. Let me help you get it right.

What Makes a Trustworthy Roofing Company?

Choosing a roofing contractor is a big decision. A good company protects your home. A bad company can cause major problems. You need to know what to look for. Trustworthy companies have certain qualities. They are transparent about their process. They provide clear written estimates. They have proper licenses and insurance. They offer strong warranties on their work. Hudson Roofing Company meets all these standards. We have been serving the community since 1999. Our team includes factory-certified installers. This means we are trained directly by shingle manufacturers. We follow their strict installation guidelines. This training ensures your roof warranty is valid. Many roof failures happen because of poor installation. Certified installers prevent this problem. We also carry general liability and workers' compensation insurance. This protects you if an accident happens on your property. Always ask for proof of insurance. Do not work with a contractor who cannot provide it. Check their license with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. A legitimate company will have no problem sharing this information. Look for online reviews on Google and the Better Business Bureau. Read both positive and negative feedback. See how the company responds to complaints. A professional company addresses problems quickly. They stand behind their work. Finally, get everything in writing. The estimate, materials, timeline, and payment schedule should be documented. A handshake is not enough for a project this important.

Essential Credentials and Certifications

Roofing credentials prove a contractor's expertise. The most important are manufacturer certifications. Companies like GAF and CertainTeed have elite programs. To become a Master Elite contractor with GAF, a company must pass strict checks. They need proper insurance and a good reputation. They must complete factory training. This certification matters for your warranty. If a GAF Master Elite contractor installs your roof, you get enhanced warranty coverage. This includes protection against wind damage and workmanship defects. Owens Corning has a similar Platinum Preferred Contractor program. These certifications are hard to earn. They show a commitment to quality. Hudson Roofing Company holds these top-tier certifications. We renew our training every year. Building codes also change regularly. A good contractor stays updated on the latest requirements. For example, Texas has specific wind uplift ratings for roofs. The International Residential Code (IRC) sets these standards. We follow the 2021 IRC for all our installations. Proper nail placement and underlayment are critical for code compliance. We also understand local amendments in Kingwood and Harris County. This knowledge prevents failed inspections. It also ensures your roof can withstand our Texas storms.

Understanding Roofing Materials: A Hands-On Comparison

Choosing roofing materials is confusing. You have many options at different price points. Each material has pros and cons. Your choice affects your home's look, protection, and value. I have installed all major material types. Let me share my practical experience. Asphalt shingles are the most common choice. They are affordable and effective. Modern architectural shingles are much better than old 3-tab shingles. They have a dimensional look. They offer better wind resistance. Brands like GAF Timberline and CertainTeed Landmark are excellent. They come with strong warranties. Metal roofing is growing in popularity. It lasts longer than asphalt. A standing seam metal roof can last fifty years. It reflects heat well, which saves on cooling costs. The initial cost is higher, but the long-term value is good. Tile roofs are beautiful and durable. Concrete tile and clay tile are common in Texas. They are very heavy. Your home's structure must support the weight. We always check this before installation. Slate is the premium option. It is incredibly durable and elegant. It is also very expensive. Synthetic slate offers a similar look for less money. Your budget, home style, and local climate should guide your choice. For most Texas homes, I recommend quality architectural shingles or metal. They provide the best balance of cost, durability, and performance.

Asphalt Shingles: The Contractor's Deep Dive

Let's talk about asphalt shingles in detail. They are not all the same. There are three main types. Three-tab shingles are the basic, flat option. I rarely recommend them today. They have a shorter lifespan. They offer less protection against wind. Architectural shingles are the standard for quality. They are thicker. They have multiple layers laminated together. This creates a shadow line that looks like wood shake. They have a higher wind rating, often 130 MPH. Luxury shingles are the top tier. They are even thicker and more detailed. They can mimic the look of slate or cedar. All shingles have a granule surface. These granules protect the asphalt from UV rays. They also add color. Over time, granules will wash off. This is normal aging. A sudden loss of granules indicates a problem. Shingles are rated by warranty length. You will see 25-year, 30-year, and lifetime warranties. The warranty only covers manufacturing defects. It does not cover improper installation or storm damage. That is why installer certification is crucial. The underlayment is just as important as the shingle. We use synthetic underlayment like GAF Tiger Paw. It is stronger than traditional felt paper. It provides a secondary water barrier. This is vital during the installation process if it rains. We also install ice and water shield in critical areas. This includes valleys and around penetrations like chimneys. This extra step prevents leaks. It is part of building code in many areas.

The Real Cost of a New Roof: Breaking Down the Numbers

Homeowners always ask about cost. It is a fair question. A new roof is a major investment. The price depends on many factors. The size of your roof is the biggest factor. Roofers measure in squares. One square equals 100 square feet. A typical 2,000 square foot home might have a 2,000 square foot roof. But roof pitch and complexity change this. A steep roof costs more to work on. A roof with many valleys, dormers, and chimneys is more complex. It requires more labor and skill. The material you choose changes the price dramatically. Let me give you real project examples from last year. A Kingwood home with a simple gable roof needed new architectural shingles. The roof was 30 squares. The total cost was $12,000. This included tear-off, disposal, synthetic underlayment, and new shingles. Another home in The Woodlands had a complex roof with multiple hips. It was 35 squares. The cost was $18,500 due to the difficulty. A metal roof installation for a 40-square home cost $32,000. This included standing seam panels with a painted finish. These are realistic Texas prices for quality work. Beware of quotes that seem too good to be true. They usually are. A very low price often means cut corners. The contractor might use cheap materials. They might not use proper underlayment. They might not remove old layers. This leads to problems later. Always get at least three detailed estimates. Compare the line items, not just the bottom line. Make sure each contractor is proposing the same scope of work. Ask what is included and what is extra. A professional estimate will list all materials, labor, and warranty details.

Financing and Insurance Considerations

Paying for a roof can be managed. Many roofing companies offer financing options. We work with several lenders. They offer competitive rates for home improvement projects. You can often get a loan with fixed monthly payments. Some homeowners use a home equity line of credit (HELOC). This can have tax advantages. Talk to your financial advisor. If your roof was damaged by a storm, insurance may cover it. This is common in Texas after hail or high winds. The insurance claim process can be confusing. A good roofing contractor can help. We can meet with your insurance adjuster. We can provide a detailed estimate for the repair. We understand how to document damage properly. We use hail identification guides and take clear photos. We know what insurance companies require. We work for you, not the insurance company. Our goal is to ensure you get a full and fair settlement. We will explain your policy's coverage and depreciation. We handle the supplement process if the initial payment is too low. Remember, you have the right to choose your own contractor. Your insurance company cannot force you to use their preferred vendor. Choose a contractor you trust, like Hudson Roofing Company. We will make sure your roof is restored to pre-storm condition, not just patched up.

The Installation Process: What to Expect Day by Day

Knowing what happens during installation reduces stress. A typical roof replacement takes two to four days. It depends on the size and weather. Here is a step-by-step guide from our field experience. Day one is preparation and tear-off. Our crew arrives early. They put down tarps and plywood to protect your landscaping. They set up safety equipment. Then they begin removing the old shingles. They carry the debris to a dump trailer. We inspect the roof deck (the wood underneath) once it is bare. We look for rotten or damaged plywood. We replace any bad wood. This is a critical step. Installing new shingles over a weak deck is a mistake. Day two is for underlayment and flashing. We roll out the synthetic underlayment. We staple it to the deck. We install metal drip edge along the eaves. We install ice and water shield in valleys and around penetrations. We replace or install new flashing. Flashing is metal that seals joints around chimneys, vents, and walls. Proper flashing prevents most leaks. Day three is for shingle installation. We start at the bottom edge (the eave) and work up. We use roofing nails in the correct pattern. We cut shingles to fit valleys and ridges. We pay close attention to alignment. A straight roof looks professional. Day four is for cleanup and inspection. We use magnetic rollers to pick up nails from your yard. We blow debris from your gutters. We do a final walk-through with you. We explain the work and show you key features. We provide warranty paperwork. The crew leaves your property clean. Throughout the process, we communicate with you. We let you know if we find unexpected issues. We get your approval before doing extra work. Our team is respectful of your property and your time.

Common Installation Mistakes Homeowners Should Watch For

I have seen many roofs installed incorrectly. Here are red flags to watch for. First, improper nail placement. Nails should be placed in the nail line, not too high or too low. They should be driven straight, not at an angle. Too few nails is a major problem. Most shingles require six nails per shingle in high-wind zones. Second, missing or poor flashing. Flashing should be new or in perfect condition. It should be integrated with the underlayment. Step flashing beside walls is especially important. Third, incorrect valley treatment. Valleys are where two roof planes meet. Water flows heavily here. They should be lined with ice and water shield. Then they should have either a woven or closed-cut valley method. I prefer the closed-cut method for better water flow. Fourth, inadequate attic ventilation. A roof needs to breathe. Hot air must escape from the attic. We install ridge vents along the peak and soffit vents under the eaves. This creates a flow of air. It prevents heat and moisture buildup. Moisture can rot the roof deck from the inside. Fifth, poor cleanup. Nails left in the yard are dangerous. They can puncture tires or hurt children. A professional crew is meticulous about cleanup. If you see these mistakes, speak up. Ask your contractor to fix them. A good company will correct any issues immediately.

Practical Homeowner Tips from Real Roofing Projects

Here is wisdom from thousands of projects. These tips will save you money and trouble. First, do regular visual inspections. Look at your roof from the ground with binoculars after big storms. Check for missing or damaged shingles. Look in your gutters for excessive granules. Granules look like coarse black sand. A few are normal. A pile of them means your shingles are wearing out. Second, keep your gutters clean. Clogged gutters cause water to back up under the roof edge. This leads to wood rot. Clean them twice a year, in spring and fall. Third, trim overhanging tree branches. Branches can scrape shingles during wind. They drop leaves that clog gutters. They provide a bridge for squirrels and raccoons to reach your roof. Fourth, check your attic periodically. Go up with a flashlight. Look for signs of leaks, like dark stains on the wood. Look for daylight coming through the roof boards. Feel for wet insulation. These are early warnings. Fifth, do not pressure wash your roof. The high pressure strips off the protective granules. It forces water under the shingles. If you need to clean moss or algae, use a gentle wash with specific roof cleaning products. Sixth, address small problems immediately. A few missing shingles are easy to fix. If you wait, water gets in and causes rot. A small repair can prevent a major leak. Finally, build a relationship with a trusted roofer. Have us do an annual inspection. It is a small cost for peace of mind. We can spot issues you might miss.

Frequently Asked Questions from Real Customers

How long will my new roof last?

A quality architectural shingle roof should last 25 to 30 years in Texas. The lifespan depends on material quality, installation quality, and maintenance. Metal roofs can last 40 to 70 years. Tile roofs can last 50 years or more. Proper attic ventilation greatly extends shingle life. Without ventilation, heat bakes the shingles from below.

Can I install new shingles over my old roof?

Sometimes, but I do not recommend it. Building codes often allow one overlay. It saves on tear-off costs. However, you cannot inspect the roof deck. You miss the chance to replace rotten wood. The added weight can stress the structure. The new shingles will not lie as flat. This can void the manufacturer's warranty. A complete tear-off is almost always the better choice for a long-lasting roof.

What is the best time of year to replace a roof?

Spring and fall are ideal in Texas. The weather is mild. Summer heat can make shingles very pliable and tricky to install. Winter brings rain and cold temperatures that can affect adhesives. However, if you have a leak, you cannot wait. We work year-round with proper techniques for each season. We schedule projects carefully to avoid forecasted rain.

How do I know if I have hail damage?

Hail damage is not always obvious from the ground. Look for random dents on your roof's metal components. Check your gutters, downspouts, and flashing for small dings. On shingles, hail hits bruise the matting underneath. The granules may be knocked off, leaving a dark spot. The shingle may feel soft when pressed. The only sure way to know is a professional inspection. We can assess the damage and document it for your insurance company.

What warranty should I expect?

You should get two warranties. The first is the manufacturer's material warranty. This covers defects in the shingles. It often lasts 25 years to a lifetime. The second is the contractor's workmanship warranty. This covers installation errors. Hudson Roofing Company offers a 10-year workmanship warranty. This is longer than most companies. It shows our confidence in our crew's skill. Read the warranty documents carefully. Understand what is and is not covered.

Will a new roof lower my energy bills?

Yes, a new roof can improve energy efficiency. Lighter-colored shingles reflect more sunlight. This keeps your attic cooler. Proper attic ventilation also reduces heat buildup. Some shingles are rated as "cool roofing" products by the Cool Roof Rating Council. We can install radiant barrier underlayment for even better performance. While the roof itself is not insulation, a cooler attic means your air conditioner works less hard.

How do I prepare my home for roof replacement?

Preparation makes the process smoother. Move cars out of the driveway. Clear the yard of patio furniture, grills, and toys. Remove wall decorations inside, as hammering can cause vibrations. Cover items in your attic with sheets to catch dust. Plan for noise—it will be loud during tear-off. Make arrangements for pets, as they may be stressed by the activity. We will handle the rest.

Real Project Case Studies with Outcomes

Case studies show how we solve real problems. Here are two examples from last year. The Johnson family in Kingwood had a persistent leak. Three other contractors could not find the source. We did a thorough inspection. We found the problem was not the shingles. It was a failed boot seal around a plumbing vent pipe on a flat section. The previous repairs only addressed the shingles. We replaced the entire vent flashing assembly and sealed it properly. The leak stopped completely. The cost was $850, much less than a full roof repair. The second case involved storm damage. The Miller home was hit by a hailstorm. Their insurance adjuster said the damage was minor. The homeowner called us for a second opinion. We used a drone to document every slope. We found significant bruising on the south-facing slope. We provided our report and photos to the insurance company. They approved a full roof replacement. The homeowner paid only their deductible. The new GAF Timberline HDZ roof was installed with all proper accessories. The homeowner was thrilled. They avoided a future leak and increased their home's value. These stories show the value of expertise. A good roofer looks beyond the surface to find the real issue.

Industry Statistics and Data You Should Know

Data helps you understand the roofing industry. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), the average roof replacement cost in the U.S. is between $5,000 and $10,000. In Texas, costs are often higher due to climate demands. The Insurance Information Institute reports that wind and hail claims make up a large portion of homeowners insurance losses. Proper installation is critical. A study by the Roofing Industry Committee on Weather Issues found that 90% of wind-related roof failures are due to installation errors, not material failure. The Department of Energy states that a cool roof can reduce peak cooling demand by 10-15%. This is important in our hot climate. The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association provides technical bulletins on best practices. We follow these guidelines. These statistics reinforce why choosing a certified, experienced contractor matters. It is not just about price. It is about long-term performance and protection.

Conclusion: Your Next Steps for a Secure Roof

Your roof is your home's first line of defense. Making informed decisions protects your investment. Start with a professional inspection. Know the true condition of your roof. Get detailed estimates from certified contractors. Compare their proposals carefully. Ask questions until you understand every part of the project. Choose quality materials that suit your home and budget. Trust the installation to experts who stand behind their work. Remember that regular maintenance extends your roof's life. Do not ignore small problems. I hope this guide has given you clarity and confidence. At Hudson Roofing Company, we are here to help. We offer free, no-obligation inspections. We provide honest assessments and clear options. Our goal is to earn your trust, not just your business. A good roof gives you peace of mind for decades. Thank you for taking the time to learn about this important topic. Protect your home and your family with a roof built to last.