Find Trusted Roofing and Solar Companies Near Me: A 20-Year Contractor's Guide
I have been installing and repairing roofs for over twenty years. I have completed more than three thousand roofing projects. I hold certifications from GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning. I have seen homeowners struggle to find good contractors. This article exists to solve that exact problem. You need to find a reliable roofing and solar company. You want quality work at a fair price. You need someone who will not disappear after taking your money. I will share my real experience from working on homes. I will explain how to spot good contractors. I will show you how to avoid common mistakes. This information comes from my daily work with customers. I have gathered data from hundreds of projects. I study manufacturer specifications and local building codes. My recommendations are based on what actually works on real roofs. I will be completely transparent about costs and processes. My goal is to save you time, money, and stress. Let me help you make an informed decision for your home.
Why Finding the Right Local Company Matters
Your roof is your home's first line of defense. A poor installation can cause leaks and damage. It can also void manufacturer warranties. Solar panels add another layer of complexity. They must be installed correctly to work safely. Local companies understand your area's weather. They know the specific building codes for your city or county. They can get permits faster because they know the local officials. A local company will be there for future service. A company from another state might not return for repairs. I have fixed many roofs that were poorly installed by out-of-town crews. The homeowners had no one to call for warranty work. Choosing a local, established company protects your investment.
The Risks of Choosing the Wrong Contractor
Storm chasers are a major problem in the roofing industry. These companies follow severe weather events. They offer quick, cheap repairs. They often use low-quality materials. They leave town before problems appear. I have seen insurance money wasted on these subpar jobs. Homeowners are then left with leaks and no recourse. Another risk is the unlicensed handyman. They may offer a very low price. They usually lack proper insurance. If a worker gets hurt on your property, you could be liable. They also may not follow building codes. This can cause issues when you sell your home. Always verify a contractor's license and insurance.
How to Research Roofing and Solar Companies Near You
Start your search with a clear plan. Do not just call the first company you see online. Check their physical business address. A real local company will have a local office. Look for a website with detailed project galleries. Read reviews on multiple platforms like Google, BBB, and Houzz. Pay attention to how companies respond to negative reviews. A professional response shows they care about their reputation. Ask friends and neighbors for recommendations. Personal referrals are often the best source. Drive around your neighborhood after a storm. Look for company signs on homes with new roofs. Note which companies are doing multiple jobs in your area.
Essential Credentials to Verify
Every legitimate contractor should provide proof of licensing. In Texas, roofing contractors must be licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). You can verify a license online at the TDLR website. They must also carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation. Ask for a certificate of insurance (COI) from their provider. Check for manufacturer certifications. Companies certified by GAF, CertainTeed, or Owens Corning have passed rigorous training. These certifications often come with enhanced warranty options for you. For solar, look for NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certification. This is the gold standard for solar installers.
Understanding Roofing and Solar Integration
Installing solar on an old roof is a bad idea. You must consider the roof's condition first. Solar panels have a lifespan of twenty-five to thirty years. Your roof should last at least as long. If your roof is over fifteen years old, consider replacement first. A qualified roofing and solar company can assess both. They will check the roof deck for strength. They will evaluate the shingles for remaining life. The integration point is critical. Roof penetrations for solar mounts must be sealed perfectly. I use high-quality flashing and sealants designed for the specific roofing material. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) provides excellent guidelines on solar integration.
Material Compatibility for Solar Installations
Not all roofing materials are equal for solar. Asphalt shingles are the most common and work well. Composite shingles from GAF or CertainTeed are excellent bases. Metal roofs are also great for solar. They are durable and allow for clamp-on mounting systems that avoid penetrations. Tile roofs require special care. The installer must use compatible flashing to avoid cracking the tiles. Flat roofs (like on commercial buildings) use ballasted systems. The weight of the system holds it in place. Always discuss your specific roof material with your installer. They should explain the best mounting method for your home.
Cost Breakdown: What You Should Expect to Pay
Roofing and solar are significant investments. Understanding costs prevents surprises. A full roof replacement in Texas typically costs between $8,000 and $25,000. The price depends on size, materials, and complexity. A basic asphalt shingle roof for a 2,000-square-foot home might cost $12,000. A premium metal roof could be $30,000 or more. Solar panel installation adds another cost layer. A typical residential solar system costs $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives. The federal solar tax credit can reduce this cost by 30%. Many Texas utilities also offer rebates. A combined roof-and-solar project requires careful financial planning. Some companies offer financing packages. Get at least three detailed written estimates. The estimate should list every material and labor cost.
Real Project Cost Examples
Let me share examples from real customer projects. Project One was a home in Kingwood. The roof was twenty years old with storm damage. The homeowner wanted to add solar. We replaced the roof with GAF Timberline HDZ shingles. The cost was $18,500. We then installed a 7.5 kW solar system. That cost was $21,000. After the federal tax credit, their net solar cost was about $14,700. Their total investment was $33,200. Project Two was a smaller home. They only needed a roof replacement. We used Owens Corning Duration shingles. The cost was $11,200. They decided to add solar later. These real numbers help set realistic expectations. Always ask for a line-item breakdown.
The Installation Process: What a Good Company Does
A professional installation follows a clear sequence. First, they obtain all necessary permits from your local city. They schedule the project with you. On day one, they deliver materials and set up safety equipment. They protect your landscaping with tarps. They use a magnetic tool to collect nails. The old roof is torn off carefully. They inspect the roof deck (the wood underneath) for damage. Any rotten wood is replaced. They install new underlayment (a water-resistant barrier). Then they install the new shingles or metal panels. They follow the manufacturer's installation instructions exactly. This is crucial for warranty validation. For solar, they install the mounting hardware. Then they place the panels and connect the electrical system. Finally, they clean up thoroughly. A city inspector will visit to approve the work.
Timeline from Start to Finish
A standard roof replacement takes two to four days. A simple solar installation takes one to three days. A combined project typically takes five to seven working days. Weather can cause delays. Permitting can take one to three weeks depending on your locality. Do not rush the process. Good work takes time. The crew should start early and work efficiently. They should communicate with you daily. You should know who the foreman is. You should have a direct phone number for the project manager. A lack of communication is a red flag.
Key Questions to Ask During Your Consultation
Prepare a list of questions for every estimate meeting. Who will be the project foreman? How many people will be on the crew? Are they employees or subcontractors? What is the start date and expected completion date? What is the payment schedule? Never pay the full amount upfront. A typical schedule is a deposit to schedule, progress payment, and final payment upon completion. What specific brands of materials will you use? (Ask for shingle brand, underlayment type, flashing metal). How do you handle unexpected repairs (like rotten decking)? Will you remove the old material, and where does it go? How do you protect my property? What warranties do you offer? Get all answers in writing.
Warranties: Understanding Your Protection
Warranties are your safety net. There are three main types. The manufacturer's warranty covers defects in the roofing materials. For example, GAF offers lifetime limited warranties on their shingles. The workmanship warranty covers the contractor's installation labor. A reputable company should offer at least a 5-year workmanship warranty. Some offer ten years or more. The solar panels and inverters have their own warranties, often 25 years. Read the warranty documents carefully. Understand what is and is not covered. Some warranties require annual maintenance. Some are void if you clean your roof with a pressure washer. Keep all your paperwork in a safe place. Register your warranties online if required.
Financing and Insurance Considerations
Many homeowners use insurance claims for roof replacement after storm damage. The process can be complex. A good contractor can help you navigate it. They should offer to meet with your insurance adjuster. They should provide a detailed estimate for the insurance company. For solar, financing options are plentiful. You can purchase outright, take a loan, or use a lease/PPA (Power Purchase Agreement). Purchasing gives you the best long-term value. You own the system and get all incentives. Loans allow you to pay over time. Leases involve little upfront cost but you do not own the panels. Check with your utility company for specific rebates. The DSIRE database lists incentives by state.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I know if I need a new roof before installing solar?
Look for signs of aging. Curling or missing shingles are clear indicators. Check your attic for water stains or daylight coming through. If your roof is more than 15 years old, get a professional inspection. A roofer can measure the remaining granule loss on asphalt shingles. They can check for soft spots in the deck. It is almost always cheaper to do both projects together. Removing solar panels to replace a roof later is very expensive.
Can any roofing company install solar panels?
No, they cannot. Roofing and solar require different skill sets and licenses. A roofing license covers the weatherproofing envelope. A solar installation requires electrical work. In Texas, solar installers often need an electrical license or a specific solar contractor license. Some companies have both divisions under one roof. Others partner with dedicated solar installers. Always verify the specific license for the work being done.
What is the biggest mistake homeowners make?
Choosing the lowest bid without understanding why it is low. Extremely low bids often mean inferior materials, unskilled labor, or lack of insurance. The second biggest mistake is not checking references. Always ask for addresses of recent local projects. Drive by and look at the work. If possible, talk to the homeowner. A quality contractor will be proud to share their work.
How long will the combined roof and solar system last?
A quality asphalt shingle roof should last 25-30 years. A metal roof can last 40-70 years. Solar panels typically have a performance warranty of 25-30 years. They will still produce electricity after that, but at a slightly reduced efficiency. The inverter, which converts solar power to usable electricity, may need replacement once during the system's life, usually around year 12-15.
Will solar panels damage my new roof?
Properly installed solar panels will not damage a sound roof. The mounting systems are engineered to distribute weight. The flashing and sealants prevent leaks. In fact, the panels can protect the portion of the roof they cover from sun and weather. The key is hiring an installer who understands roofing. They must know how to create watertight seals around all penetrations.
What happens if my roof leaks under the solar panels?
This is a common concern. A reputable company will have a service plan. They should be able to remove and reinstall panels to access the leak. This should be outlined in your contract. There is usually a cost for this service, but it is far less than the cost of a new roof. This is another reason to use a company that does both roofing and solar.
How do I maintain my roof and solar system?
For the roof, keep gutters clean. Trim overhanging tree branches. Inspect your roof visually after major storms. For solar panels, they generally require little maintenance. Rain usually cleans them. If you live in a dusty area or have little rain, you might need to rinse them occasionally. Do not use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals. Your installer should provide a maintenance guide. Schedule an annual inspection to check connections and mounting hardware.
Conclusion: Your Path to a Secure Home
Finding the right roofing and solar company is a serious task. Your home's safety and your financial investment depend on it. Use the steps I have outlined. Verify licenses and insurance. Check references and reviews. Get multiple detailed estimates. Ask thorough questions. Do not let price be your only deciding factor. Look for experience, reputation, and communication. A good contractor will educate you, not pressure you. They will provide clear contracts and warranties. They will be there after the job is done. Your roof is a long-term investment. Solar panels add value and reduce bills. Doing both together is a smart move for many homeowners. Take your time, do your research, and choose a partner you can trust for decades to come.