Frequently Asked Questions

What types of siding materials are available?

There are a few common siding materials homeowners choose from, each with its own upkeep and cost profile:

• Vinyl siding — affordable and low-maintenance, with a range of colors and styles.
• Fiber cement siding — durable and fire-resistant, can mimic the look of wood without the upkeep.
• Wood siding — a beautiful, natural choice that needs more frequent maintenance.
• Metal siding — durable, pest-resistant and low-maintenance.

Holmes also handles Hardie fiber-cement siding repair — ask us which option fits your home best during a free inspection.

How long do metal roofs typically last?

Metal roofs are known for their impressive durability. When properly cared for, they typically outlast asphalt shingle roofs by a wide margin — especially valuable in a market like San Antonio, where extreme weather can wear down less durable materials faster.

The upfront cost of a metal roof is higher, but many homeowners find the longevity and low maintenance make it a worthwhile investment. Holmes is happy to discuss whether a metal roof is the right fit for your home.

What damage does hail do to a roof?

Hailstones can dent and crack shingles and dislodge the protective granules that help prevent water damage. Left unaddressed, these impacts can weaken the roof over time and lead to leaks or further deterioration.

We always recommend a professional inspection after a hailstorm — even small hailstones can cause damage that’s easy to miss from the ground.

How often should you replace a roof?

Lifespan depends on the material and how well it’s maintained. As a general rule:

• Asphalt shingles — the shortest lifespan of the three
• Metal roofing — built to last significantly longer than shingles
• Tile roofing — the longest-lasting option with proper maintenance

San Antonio’s intense heat and occasional severe storms can shorten a roof’s life, which is why regular inspections matter. We’ll always be transparent about whether your roof needs a repair or a full replacement.

Should I replace my roof and gutters at the same time?

Not always necessary, but it can be beneficial. Replacing both together ensures a clean fit between the roof edge and the gutter system, which can improve drainage and prevent leaks, and can save on labor costs versus doing them separately.

We’ll evaluate the condition of your roof and gutters together and help you decide what makes sense for your home and budget.

Does insurance cover roofing, siding and gutter services?

Not all insurance providers cover roofing, siding and gutter services, and even storm-damage claims aren’t always accepted. If you need a repair or replacement, we encourage you to confirm coverage with your own insurance company.

We only document what we find during your free inspection — we never file, negotiate or waive anything on your policy.

What does “GAF Certified” actually mean?

GAF is a roofing-material manufacturer, and its contractor program has tiers. Holmes holds the base GAF Certified designation, renewed for 2026 — not the top Master Elite tier. Certified means the crew is factory-trained to install GAF systems to spec and can register the manufacturer’s material warranty on your roof. A roofer without it can buy the same shingles but cannot give you that factory-backed coverage.

Is GAF Certified the same as GAF Master Elite?

No. Master Elite is a higher tier of the same program, and Holmes does not hold it. We say so rather than let a badge imply something it doesn’t. What Certified status gets you is real and checkable: factory-trained installation and eligibility for the manufacturer warranty we register on your roof.

Is Holmes a licensed roofing contractor in Texas?

Texas does not issue a statewide roofing license, so nobody in this market holds one — and any company advertising a “state roofing license” is describing something that does not exist. What does exist, and can be checked: our City of San Antonio contractor registration HIC-24-00928, our GAF Certified manufacturer status, and current General Liability and Workers’ Compensation coverage. Ask us for any of it.

What should I ask a roofer before I sign anything?

Four questions settle most of it: what manufacturer certification do you hold, and at what tier; what is your municipal contractor registration number; may I see a current certificate of insurance showing General Liability and Workers’ Compensation; and what workmanship warranty do you put in writing, for how long. Compare the written answers, not the sales pitch. Ours run 15 years on shingle and 20 on metal — full terms on our warranty page.