Asphalt Shingle Roofing
Asphalt shingles cover most homes in Texas because they balance cost, looks and performance. GemSco installs and repairs them as an elite contractor for Owens Corning and GAF.
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Types of asphalt shingles
Architectural shingles
Thicker, layered shingles with a dimensional look. They are the most common choice for new roofs today and handle wind better than older flat styles.
Three-tab shingles
A flat, single-layer design. Lighter and simpler, but less durable, and many homeowners now move up to architectural shingles.
Impact-resistant shingles
Shingles rated UL 2218 Class 4, the highest impact rating in that test. A common choice in hail-prone parts of Texas.
Designer shingles
Premium lines made to look like slate or wood shake while keeping the installation of an asphalt roof.
Why asphalt shingles work in Texas
Asphalt shingles are affordable to install and repair, come in many colors, and work on most residential roof pitches. A well-installed asphalt roof typically lasts 20 to 30 years, depending on the product, ventilation, sun exposure and the storms it goes through.
Texas heat is hard on shingles. Strong sun dries out the asphalt over time, and a hot attic speeds that up. Good roof ventilation is part of a proper installation, not an extra. Hail is the other big factor, which is why many homeowners compare standard and impact-rated shingles before they choose.
Signs your shingles need attention
Curling, cupping or cracked shingles.
Bald spots and granules collecting in the gutters.
Missing shingles after wind.
Dark spots or soft bruises after hail.
Stains on ceilings or in the attic.
A roof that is 20 years old or more.
How GemSco installs an asphalt shingle roof
Inspection
We inspect the roof, decking and attic to see what the new roof will sit on.
Photos and written estimate
You get photos of the current condition and a written estimate with the product, scope and options.
Tear-off and decking
We remove the old roof and replace damaged decking found during the tear-off, after reviewing it with you.
Installation
Underlayment, flashing, shingles, ridge and ventilation installed to the manufacturer's instructions.
Cleanup
We haul away the old materials and sweep the property for nails.
What drives the cost of a shingle roof
Every roof is priced on its own measurements and conditions, which is why we give you a written estimate instead of a number over the phone. The main factors are the size of the roof, its pitch and complexity, the shingle line you choose, how many layers come off, and how much decking needs to be replaced once the old roof is removed.
Details count as much as the shingles. Valleys, chimneys, skylights and walls need flashing, every pipe needs a boot, and the attic needs balanced intake and exhaust. Those parts decide whether the roof stays dry, so a lower bid that skips them is not really cheaper. Color matters too: lighter shingles reflect more sun, which can help on hot Texas roofs, while darker colors absorb more heat. We can bring samples so you can see them against your home.
Repair or replace your shingle roof
Isolated wind or hail damage on a younger roof can often be repaired by replacing the damaged shingles and sealing the area. When the shingles are worn across every slope, a new roof is usually the better investment. Our roof repair and roof replacement pages explain that decision, and our hail damage roof repair page covers storm cases.
GemSco is family owned, fully licensed and insured, with more than 20 years of experience. We install and repair asphalt shingle roofs in Houston, DFW, Austin, San Antonio and surrounding areas, including San Antonio and Dallas. Estimates are free, financing is available, and we offer discounts for military, first responders and seniors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an asphalt shingle roof last in Texas?
Typically 20 to 30 years, but Texas conditions can shorten that. Intense sun, a poorly ventilated attic and repeated hail all wear shingles faster. Architectural and impact-rated shingles generally hold up better than three-tab. Regular inspections help you plan the replacement before leaks force the decision.
Are impact-resistant shingles worth it?
In hail-prone areas they are worth considering. Class 4 shingles resist impacts better than standard shingles, though no shingle is hail proof. Some insurance companies offer a premium credit for impact-rated roofs, so ask your insurer before you decide. We can show you options from Owens Corning and GAF.
Can new shingles go over the old ones?
It is sometimes allowed, but we generally recommend a full tear-off. Removing the old roof lets us see and repair the decking, install new underlayment and flashing correctly, and avoid adding weight. A layover also hides problems that would otherwise be fixed now.
What does being an elite contractor for Owens Corning and GAF mean for me?
It means GemSco holds contractor status with both manufacturers, the two shingle brands we install. That gives you access to their product lines and to the warranty options each manufacturer offers through its contractor programs. We explain the specific options for your roof in the written estimate.
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GemSco Roofing & Solar serves Houston, DFW, Austin, San Antonio and surrounding areas. We’re family owned and fully licensed and insured.