Roof Replacement in San Antonio
San Antonio wears out roofs two ways: houses that are a few decades old and some of the largest hail in Texas. A replacement here should answer both.
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What usually triggers a replacement here
Age
Half of the homes in San Antonio were built before 1985 (U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2020-2024). At about 41 years, most are on a replacement roof that is aging too.
Large hail
NOAA's Storm Prediction Center logged 136 hail reports within 10 miles of San Antonio from 2015 through 2024, 48 of them 1.75 inches or larger.
Repeat leaks
Repairs that come back in new spots usually mean the roof as a whole is done.
Hidden deck damage
Big hail can crack the decking under the shingles, and only a tear-off fully shows it.
Pick a roof for the hail you actually get
The largest hail logged near San Antonio in that period measured 4.5 inches, on April 12, 2016. Stones that size can break almost any roof. Golf ball hail, which is far more common, is a different story: an impact-rated roof handles it much better than a standard one.
That is why we price UL 2218 Class 4 shingles from Owens Corning and GAF next to standard architectural shingles. The impact-rated option costs more up front, and some insurers offer a premium discount for it, depending on the company and the policy. Metal roofing is another option for owners who want a longer service life.
Color is worth a thought in San Antonio sun. Lighter shingles reflect more heat than dark ones, which can ease the load on the attic in summer. Both Owens Corning and GAF make impact-rated shingles in several colors, so choosing a Class 4 roof does not have to change the look of the house.
What your written estimate should spell out
Full tear-off or overlay, and the reason for it
How damaged decking is found, replaced and priced
Underlayment, flashing and drip edge in the scope
Ventilation changes, if the attic needs them. See roof ventilation.
Shingle line and color, and the manufacturer warranty that applies
Haul-off of the old roof and cleanup
From inspection to finished roof
Look
We inspect the roof and attic and record hail hits, wear and leak points.
Show
You get the photos, so the decision rests on what is actually up there.
Quote
A written estimate with options, impact-rated shingles included.
Build
Tear-off, deck repair, underlayment, flashing, vents and the new roof.
Clear
Old material hauled off and the property cleaned.
Planning the cost
Financing is available. Compare the interest rate, the term, the total cost and any prepayment penalty, and finance a written scope rather than a ballpark figure. GemSco offers discounts for military, first responders and seniors. See roof financing.
If a storm caused the damage, coverage depends on your policy and your insurer's decision. We document the damage and provide the estimate; you decide whether to file. Our roof replacement page explains the service in full, and our San Antonio roofing page covers the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a Class 4 roof survive any hail?
No roof is hail proof. Class 4 shingles passed the toughest level of the UL 2218 impact test, so they resist cracking from common hail much better than standard shingles. The very largest stones, like those logged near San Antonio, can still damage them. The benefit is fewer damaged roofs in typical storms.
Should I wait until after hail season to replace?
If the roof is leaking or failing now, waiting adds interior damage. If it is sound but aging, some owners plan the work for a calmer part of the year. An inspection tells you how much time the roof has. Do not delay reporting existing storm damage, since many policies set time limits.
Can I switch from shingles to tile or metal?
Often, with some checks. Tile is much heavier than shingles, so the structure has to be able to carry it. Metal is lighter and usually fits without structural changes. We look at the framing and the existing roof during the inspection and tell you which switches make sense for your house.
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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.