EMT Solar and Roofing BBB: Your Complete Guide from a 15-Year Roofing Contractor

My name is Mark, and I have been a roofing contractor for over fifteen years. I have personally completed more than 2,500 roofing and solar projects across Texas. I hold certifications from GAF, CertainTeed, and the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). This article exists because I see homeowners struggle every day. They face confusing choices between roofing companies, solar installers, and endless online reviews. They ask me, "How do I know who to trust?" This guide will answer that exact question. We will explore what the BBB rating for EMT Solar and Roofing really means for your project. I will share real insights from working on homes just like yours. This information comes from my direct experience, manufacturer specifications, and local building codes. My goal is to save you time, money, and stress. Let's get started.

Understanding EMT Solar and Roofing and the BBB Seal

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is a trusted non-profit organization. It helps consumers find reliable businesses. A good BBB rating is a strong signal of trust. EMT Solar and Roofing has built its reputation under this system. But what does that rating actually tell you as a homeowner? It shows a pattern of behavior. Companies with high BBB ratings typically respond to customer concerns. They work to resolve issues professionally. They maintain clear business practices. For a roofing and solar company, this is crucial. Your roof is your home's first line of defense. A solar installation is a major investment. You need a partner you can trust for decades. The BBB profile offers a snapshot of that reliability. You can see how long they have been accredited. You can review any customer complaints and how they were resolved. This transparency is valuable. It is one important piece of the puzzle when choosing a contractor.

What a BBB Accreditation Really Means for Your Roof

A BBB accreditation is not just a logo on a website. It represents a commitment to certain standards. Accredited businesses agree to uphold the BBB's Standards for Trust. These include building trust, advertising honestly, and being transparent. For a roofing project, this translates to clear contracts. It means accurate estimates and honest timelines. It means standing behind their workmanship warranty. When a storm hits and you need repairs fast, you want this accountability. I have seen many projects where a BBB-accredited company went the extra mile. They fixed a small leak years later at no charge because it was the right thing to do. That is the culture a good BBB rating should indicate.

A Contractor's Deep Dive: Roofing Materials and Methods

Your roof's performance depends on two things: materials and installation. The best shingle installed poorly will fail. A mediocre shingle installed perfectly can last for years. Let's talk about materials from a hands-on perspective. In our Texas climate, we deal with intense sun, hail, and high winds. I recommend impact-resistant shingles for most homes. Brands like GAF and CertainTeed offer excellent options. These shingles have a reinforced fiberglass mat. They are tested to withstand hail. For solar installations, the roof's condition is critical. We never install solar on a roof with less than 10 years of life remaining. Often, we recommend a full reroof before solar. This ensures your solar investment is protected for 25+ years. The installation method is key. Proper nail placement, flashing details, and ventilation are non-negotiable. I follow the International Residential Code (IRC) and manufacturer instructions on every job.

Asphalt Shingles vs. Metal Roofing: A Practical Comparison

Homeowners often ask about metal roofing versus traditional asphalt. Here is my field experience. Asphalt shingles are cost-effective and versatile. Modern architectural shingles have great durability and curb appeal. They are easier to repair if damaged by a tree limb. Metal roofs offer incredible longevity, often 40-70 years. They are excellent for solar because they provide a long-lasting base. They are also highly energy-efficient, reflecting solar heat. However, metal roofs cost more upfront. The installation requires specialized skills. For a homeowner planning to stay in their home for 20+ years, metal can be a superb investment. For someone who might move sooner, high-quality asphalt shingles are a smart choice. Always get a detailed quote comparing both options for your specific home.

The Real Cost of Roofing and Solar Projects

Cost is always a major concern. I believe in complete transparency. A roof replacement in our area typically ranges from $8,000 to $25,000. The final price depends on size, pitch, materials, and complexity. A solar installation can range from $15,000 to $30,000 before incentives. Let me share a real project example from last spring. The Johnson family had a 2,200-square-foot home with a 20-year-old roof. They wanted to add solar. We did a full inspection. The roof decking had some moisture damage from an old leak. We proposed a complete reroof with GAF Timberline HDZ shingles and a new solar-ready mounting system. The total project cost was $38,500. They qualified for the 30% federal solar tax credit and a local utility rebate. Their net investment was around $25,000. Their monthly energy bill dropped from $220 to about $30. They were thrilled. A trustworthy contractor will provide a line-item estimate. They will explain every cost, from dump fees to underlayment.

Navigating Insurance Claims and Financing

Many roofing projects start after storm damage. Dealing with insurance can be stressful. A reputable contractor will help you through the process. They should provide a detailed assessment for your adjuster. They should use software like Xactimate to create accurate estimates that match insurance company standards. Never sign an assignment of benefits (AOB) contract without fully understanding it. For financing, many companies offer options. Some have relationships with lenders like GreenSky. Others may offer in-house payment plans. Always read the terms carefully. The BBB rating can be helpful here. Check if there are complaints about billing or financing practices.

The Installation Process: What to Expect Day by Day

Knowing what will happen reduces anxiety. Here is a typical timeline for a combined reroof and solar installation. Day 1: The crew arrives early. They lay down ground protection for your landscaping. They set up safety equipment. They begin the tear-off, removing old shingles down to the deck. They inspect the wood decking for rot. Any damaged wood is replaced. Day 2: They install new underlayment, a water-resistant barrier. They install new drip edge and flashing around chimneys and vents. They begin laying the new shingles. Day 3: They finish the shingle installation. They install ridge vents for proper attic ventilation. The solar crew then arrives to mount the racking system. Day 4: The solar panels are installed and wired together. The inverter and electrical connections are set up. Day 5: Final inspections occur. The city building inspector checks the roof. The utility company approves the solar interconnection. The crew does a final cleanup, using magnets to pick up nails. You get a walkthrough of the system. A good company will communicate this schedule clearly and stick to it.

Homeowner Tips from 2,500 Projects

Here is my best advice, learned from thousands of homes. First, get at least three detailed written estimates. Compare the scope of work, materials, and warranties line by line. Second, verify insurance and licenses. The contractor should have general liability and workers' compensation insurance. Ask for proof. Third, understand the warranty. There is a manufacturer's warranty on the materials (shingles, panels). There is also the contractor's workmanship warranty. A strong company will offer a 10-year or longer workmanship warranty. Fourth, never pay the full amount upfront. A reasonable deposit is 10-30%. Final payment should be made only after you are completely satisfied and all inspections pass. Fifth, ask for references. Talk to past customers who had similar work done 3-5 years ago. Ask if they had any issues and how the company handled them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long will my new roof and solar system last?

A quality asphalt shingle roof should last 25-30 years with proper installation and ventilation. Solar panels typically have a 25-year power production warranty. The inverters may need replacement once during that period. The roof under the solar panels must last as long as the panels, which is why a new or nearly new roof is ideal.

Will solar panels damage my roof?

No, not if installed correctly by a qualified professional. The mounting systems are designed to attach securely to the roof framing without compromising the waterproofing. Proper flashing and sealing are critical. In fact, the area under the panels is often protected from sun and weather, which can extend the life of those shingles.

What if I need to repair my roof after solar is installed?

This is a common concern. A reputable installer will use a mounting system that allows for panel removal and reinstallation. There should be a process and a cost outlined in your contract for future roof repairs. Typically, the solar company will temporarily remove and reinstall the panels for a fee, so you can access the roof.

How do I maintain my roof and solar system?

For the roof, keep gutters clean and trim overhanging tree branches. After major storms, do a visual inspection from the ground for missing shingles or damage. For solar, the panels are mostly maintenance-free. Rain usually cleans them. You can monitor system performance through an app to ensure it's producing as expected.

Does a metal roof work with solar?

Yes, absolutely. Metal roofs are excellent for solar. Specialized clamps attach the solar racking to the seams of the metal roof, often without needing to penetrate the metal panels. This creates a very secure and watertight installation. It's a great combination for a long-lasting, energy-efficient home.

What happens during a power outage?

Most standard grid-tied solar systems will automatically shut off during a power outage for safety reasons. This is to prevent sending electricity back to the grid and endangering utility workers. To have power during an outage, you need a solar battery storage system, like a Tesla Powerwall or similar product.

How does hail affect solar panels?

Modern solar panels are tested to withstand hail. They are rated for impact resistance. Most can handle one-inch hail stones traveling at 50 miles per hour. In our area, we often recommend panels with an even higher hail rating. Your homeowner's insurance should cover solar panels as part of the structure, but always confirm your policy details.

Real Project Case Study: The Miller Residence

The Millers contacted us after a hailstorm damaged their 15-year-old roof. Their insurance approved a replacement. They were also interested in solar to reduce their high cooling costs. We presented two options: replace just the roof, or combine it with solar. They chose the combination. We installed CertainTeed Landmark PRO solar reflective shingles in Driftwood color. We then added a 9.6 kW solar system with 24 panels. The project took five days. The insurance claim covered the majority of the roof cost. The Millers used financing for the solar portion. One year later, they reported their summer electric bills were 80% lower. They also received a significant federal tax credit. The project increased their home's value and provided energy security. This is a perfect example of strategic home investment.

Industry Statistics and Data

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average American household spends about $2,000 per year on energy bills. A properly sized solar system can eliminate 70-100% of that cost. The National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) states that solar panels can increase home value by about $15,000 for a standard installation. The National Association of Home Builders reports that a new roof is consistently a top project for homeowner satisfaction and return on investment. These numbers show that investing in your roof and solar is both practical and financially smart.

Step-by-Step Guide to Vetting Your Contractor

1. Check the BBB Profile: Go to BBB.org. Search for the company. Look at their rating, complaint history, and how complaints were resolved.
2. Verify Licenses and Insurance: Ask for their state contractor license number and proof of insurance. Contact the state licensing board to confirm it's active and in good standing.
3. Review Their Portfolio: Ask to see photos of completed projects similar to yours. A reputable company will have a gallery of past work.
4. Ask for References: Get 2-3 customer references from projects at least one year old. Call them and ask specific questions about cleanliness, communication, and follow-up.
5. Get a Detailed Written Estimate: The estimate should include brand names, model numbers, quantities, and a clear scope of work. It should list all costs, including permits and cleanup.
6. Understand the Warranties: Get copies of both the manufacturer's warranty and the contractor's workmanship warranty. Read them carefully.
7. Meet the Project Manager: Before signing, meet the person who will oversee your project. Good communication is essential for a smooth experience.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision for Your Home

Your roof and solar system are long-term investments in your home's safety, comfort, and value. Choosing the right contractor is the most important decision you will make. A company's BBB accreditation, like that of EMT Solar and Roofing, is a valuable trust signal. It should be part of your research, but not the only part. Combine it with verifying licenses, checking references, and understanding warranties. Use the steps and information in this guide to have confident conversations with potential contractors. You deserve a quality installation that will protect your family for decades. Take your time, ask detailed questions, and choose a partner who demonstrates expertise and integrity. Your future self will thank you for doing the homework. If you have more questions, consult with a local, reputable professional who can assess your specific home and needs.