The 12-Point Roof Inspection Checklist Every Texas Homeowner Should Know
Texas weather is brutal on roofs. Use this 12-point checklist — covering shingles, flashings, ventilation, gutters, and storm damage — to know what a professional inspection should surface.
Published 2025-01-25 · Updated 2026-04-21 · 6 min read
Why does Texas weather wear roofs faster?
Three factors compound: extreme UV (Texas averages 250+ sunny days), hail belt exposure (DFW, Hill Country, and parts of San Antonio see 3+ hail events/yr), and thermal cycling (60°F+ daily temperature swings during shoulder seasons). The combined effect is to cut a 25-year shingle's effective life to roughly 14–18 years.
What are the 12 points to inspect?
- Granule loss — bare asphalt visible on shingles, granules accumulating in gutters
- Lifted or curling tabs — heat-related deterioration
- Missing shingles — most common after wind events
- Exposed nails — caulking should cover every nailhead in flashing zones
- Chimney flashing — step flashing intact, cricket present on chimneys > 30" wide
- Valley flashing — clean, no debris, no rust on metal valleys
- Vent pipe boots — rubber gaskets crack at 8–12 years in Texas sun
- Soffit & fascia — paint condition, no rot, vents unobstructed
- Gutters & downspouts — pitched correctly, no separation, discharge 4 ft+ from foundation
- Attic ventilation — 1 sqft of net free vent area per 150 sqft of attic
- Attic moisture or daylight — any daylight visible through decking is a deficiency
- Visible storm damage — circular hail bruising, granule pitting, creased tabs
What does hail damage look like?
Hail bruising appears as small (¼"–1"), roughly circular dark spots where granules have been knocked away, sometimes with a soft feel when pressed (mat damage). HAAG-certified inspectors test by marking spots and comparing distribution across roof slopes — random distribution suggests hail, lined distribution suggests something else.
How often should a Texas roof be inspected?
Twice per year — spring (post-storm season) and fall (pre-winter). After any named storm or hail event of ½" or greater, an additional inspection is recommended for insurance documentation purposes.
Is a drone inspection as good as an in-person one?
Drone inspections are excellent for triage and documentation but cannot replicate hands-on tactile testing for mat damage, fastener pull, or flashing seal integrity. ProActive uses drones for initial pass and in-person for follow-up when findings warrant it.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Texas roof inspection cost?
Stand-alone inspections range $150–$350 for typical single-family homes. ProActive Home Care™ members receive 2 inspections per year (spring + fall) included in every plan.
Should I file an insurance claim for hail damage?
Only if the documented damage exceeds your deductible meaningfully. Filing a small claim can trigger a non-renewal in Texas. A pre-claim inspection from an independent HAAG-certified inspector is recommended.
How long should asphalt shingles last in Texas?
Architectural shingles labeled 25–30 year typically last 14–18 years in Central Texas due to UV and hail exposure. Class 4 impact-rated shingles add 3–5 years of effective life.