The Hills Roofing: What to Expect from Your Contractor

When you're searching for a roofer in The Hills , you're not just looking for someone to patch a leak or slap shingles on your home—you're looking for a partner who understands how critical your roof is to protecting everything underneath it. I'm Chad Burnell, founder of Earth in Motion, Inc., and over my 20-plus years in construction, I've learned that roofing work demands the same level of attention to detail, code compliance, and climate understanding as any other structural project. Whether you're dealing with storm damage, planning a replacement, or simply want to know your roof is built to last, the decisions you make about who does the work and how it's done will affect your property for decades to come.

Your roof is the first line of defense against weather, temperature swings, moisture intrusion, and fire hazards. In my years working across different environments—from the unpredictable freeze-thaw cycles in Colorado to the intense summer heat and storm seasons here in Central Texas—I've seen what happens when roofing work is done right and when it's done wrong. The difference isn't just cosmetic. It's structural, financial, and often a matter of safety.

When you hire a roofer, you're trusting them with one of the most important systems in your home. That roof needs to shed water effectively, resist wind uplift, provide proper ventilation to prevent mold and moisture damage, and meet fire safety standards. If any of these elements are compromised because of poor installation, substandard materials, or a contractor who cuts corners, you'll pay for it later—sometimes in ways that aren't visible until significant damage has already occurred.

At Earth in Motion, we approach every roofing project with the same rigor we apply to site grading, drainage systems, and foundation work. Everything is connected. A roof that doesn't integrate properly with gutters, flashing, and ventilation will fail prematurely. That's why I always tell clients: don't just hire someone who can nail shingles. Hire someone who understands how your entire property works as a system.

Let me be clear: not all contractors operate the same way. Over two decades, I've seen the full spectrum—from crews who show up unprepared and leave a mess, to professionals who treat your property like their own. Here's what you should expect when you work with a legitimate roofing professional.

First, verify that your roofer carries proper licensing and comprehensive insurance. This isn't optional. General liability insurance protects your property if something goes wrong during the job. Workers' compensation insurance protects you from liability if a crew member is injured on your property. If a contractor can't provide proof of both, walk away. You're taking on enormous risk otherwise.

Licensing standards vary by region, but any reputable contractor should be able to show you current credentials and explain what they cover. At Earth in Motion, we're a certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, and we carry all required insurance and bonding. That's not something I mention to brag—it's a baseline standard that protects both you and us.

Before any work begins, you should receive a thorough inspection of your existing roof. A professional doesn't just look at the surface from the ground. They get up there, assess the condition of shingles or tiles, check flashing around chimneys and vents, examine valleys, inspect underlayment (if accessible), and evaluate ventilation systems.

After the inspection, you should receive a written estimate that breaks down the scope of work, materials to be used, timeline, and payment terms. Be wary of contractors who pressure you to commit on the spot or who provide vague verbal quotes. Everything should be documented. If there's a dispute later, that written estimate and contract are your protection.

Your roofer should explain what materials they plan to use and why those materials are appropriate for your climate and property. In areas with severe weather—whether that's the hail and wind we see in Texas or the snow loads and ice dams common in colder regions—material selection is critical.

For example, asphalt shingles are common, but they need to meet specific fire ratings. In some areas, you'll want Class A-rated shingles for maximum fire resistance. If you're using wood shingles, they should be pressure-treated with fire-resistant coatings. Metal roofing is another option that offers durability and weather resistance, but installation quality matters just as much as the material itself.

At Earth in Motion, we don't just pick materials based on cost. We consider your property's unique conditions—sun exposure, wind patterns, moisture levels, surrounding vegetation—and recommend solutions that will perform over the long term.

Once you've selected a contractor and agreed on materials, the actual work begins. Here's what a professional roofing project should look like.

Most roofing projects require a building permit, especially if you're doing a full replacement or significant repairs. Your contractor should handle this process. Permits ensure that the work meets local building codes, which exist for good reason—they're designed to keep your home safe and structurally sound.

Part of the permit process involves inspections at key stages. Typically, there's a mid-roof inspection after the underlayment and flashing are installed, and a final inspection once the project is complete. These inspections verify that critical elements—like ice and water shields, ventilation, and flashing—are installed correctly. Skipping permits and inspections is a red flag. It means the contractor is either trying to avoid scrutiny or doesn't understand local codes.

Before any shingles come off, your contractor should protect your property. That means covering landscaping, moving outdoor furniture, protecting gutters and downspouts, and setting up tarps or barriers to catch debris. At the end of each day, the site should be cleaned up. Roofing debris—nails, shingle fragments, packaging—shouldn't be left scattered across your yard.

I've been on job sites where other contractors left a mess that took the homeowner weeks to clean up. That's unacceptable. When we work on a property, we treat it with the same respect we'd want for our own homes. That means daily cleanup, careful handling of materials, and minimizing disruption to your daily life.

Several elements of your roof are non-negotiable. These are the components that prevent leaks, manage water flow, and ensure your roof lasts as long as the materials are rated for.

Underlayment: This is the waterproof or water-resistant barrier installed directly on the roof deck before shingles go on. The type of underlayment depends on your climate and the roofing material. In areas prone to ice dams, you'll need high-quality ice and water shield membranes in valleys, along eaves, and around roof penetrations like vents and chimneys. These membranes extend at least 24 inches inside the exterior walls to prevent water intrusion when ice builds up.

Flashing: Flashing is the metal material installed at joints and transitions—around chimneys, skylights, dormers, and where the roof meets a vertical wall. It directs water away from vulnerable areas. Flashing should be made from corrosion-resistant metals and installed according to manufacturer specifications. Poor flashing is one of the most common causes of roof leaks.

Ventilation: Proper attic ventilation is essential for preventing moisture buildup, reducing heat in the summer, and prolonging the life of your roof. Ventilation systems balance intake vents (usually along the eaves) with exhaust vents (at the ridge or gables). Without adequate ventilation, heat and moisture get trapped in your attic, leading to mold growth, wood rot, and premature shingle failure.

Drip Edge: This is a metal strip installed along the eaves and gables to direct water into gutters and away from the fascia. It's a small detail, but it prevents water from seeping under shingles and damaging the roof deck and structural framing.

Once the installation is complete, the final inspection verifies that everything meets code. After passing inspection, you should receive documentation that includes warranty information for both the materials and the workmanship. Material warranties typically come from the manufacturer and can range from 20 to 50 years depending on the product. Workmanship warranties from the contractor usually cover 7 to 10 years and guarantee that the installation was done correctly.

Keep this documentation in a safe place. If you ever sell your home, transferable warranties add value and give buyers confidence. If issues arise down the road, you'll need these documents to file a claim.

Every region has unique roofing challenges. In Central Texas, we deal with intense UV exposure, high temperatures, severe thunderstorms, occasional hail, and dramatic temperature swings between day and night. In colder climates like Colorado, where I've also worked, the concerns shift to snow loads, ice dams, and freeze-thaw cycles that can crack shingles and damage flashing.

Understanding these local conditions is critical when selecting materials and installation methods. A roofing solution that works perfectly in a mild coastal climate might fail quickly in a place with harsh winters or extreme heat. That's why experience in the region matters. A contractor who's been working in the area for years knows what holds up and what doesn't.

In Texas, the summer sun is relentless. UV radiation breaks down roofing materials over time, causing shingles to become brittle and lose their protective granules. Lighter-colored materials reflect more heat, which can reduce cooling costs and extend the life of the roof. Metal roofing is particularly effective in hot climates because it reflects solar heat rather than absorbing it.

Severe thunderstorms, high winds, and hail are common in this part of the country. Your roof needs to be rated for wind resistance, and shingles should be properly fastened to prevent blow-offs. Impact-resistant shingles are worth considering if hail is a frequent concern. After a major storm, it's essential to have your roof inspected even if you don't see obvious damage. Small cracks or loose shingles can lead to leaks and structural problems if not addressed quickly.

Even in a hot climate, moisture management is critical. Poor ventilation traps heat and humidity in your attic, which accelerates the aging of roofing materials and creates conditions for mold growth. Proper ventilation keeps air circulating, reduces attic temperatures, and prevents moisture from condensing on the underside of the roof deck.

I'm not going to give you specific dollar amounts because every project is different. But I can explain what drives the cost so you understand where your money goes and why some quotes are higher than others.

The materials you choose have the biggest impact on cost. Asphalt shingles are the most affordable option and work well for many applications. Metal roofing costs more upfront but lasts longer and requires less maintenance. Tile roofing—whether clay or concrete—is even more expensive but offers exceptional durability and aesthetic appeal. Premium materials like slate or stone-coated steel sit at the top of the cost spectrum.

The long-term value of a material isn't just about its lifespan. It's also about energy efficiency, maintenance requirements, and how well it performs in your specific climate. Sometimes spending more upfront saves you money over the life of the roof.

A simple roof replacement on a single-story ranch home is straightforward. A multi-story home with complex angles, multiple valleys, dormers, skylights, and chimneys requires more labor, more materials, and more time. Steep roof pitches also increase labor costs because they're more difficult and dangerous to work on.

If your existing roof has structural damage—rotted decking, damaged trusses, or compromised flashing—that has to be repaired before the new roof goes on. These unexpected issues can increase costs, but they're necessary to ensure the integrity of the new installation.

Professional roofing crews with certified, experienced workers cost more than fly-by-night operations, but you get what you pay for. Labor costs include not just the hours spent on your roof, but also the cost of insurance, licensing, equipment, safety measures, and waste disposal.

At Earth in Motion, we price our work to reflect the level of care and expertise we bring to every project. That includes thorough site preparation, daily cleanup, proper installation of all critical components, and follow-up inspections to ensure everything performs as expected.

Contractors who offer comprehensive warranties—covering both materials and workmanship—build those costs into their pricing. But that warranty is your protection. If something goes wrong, you're not stuck paying for repairs out of pocket. Cheap contractors who don't stand behind their work might save you money today, but they'll cost you more when problems arise and they're nowhere to be found.

Not every contractor operates with integrity. Here are warning signs that should make you think twice before signing a contract.

If a contractor pressures you to commit immediately, refuses to provide a written estimate, or offers a deal that's "only good today," walk away. Legitimate professionals give you time to review proposals, compare options, and ask questions.

Standard payment terms usually involve a deposit to cover materials, progress payments as work is completed, and final payment upon completion and your approval. A contractor who demands full payment before starting work is a red flag. If they disappear or do shoddy work, you'll have no leverage.

If a contractor can't provide proof of insurance and licensing, don't hire them. Period. You're exposing yourself to significant liability if someone gets hurt or if they damage your property.

Professional contractors provide realistic timelines and keep you updated throughout the project. If a contractor is hard to reach, provides vague answers, or keeps pushing back start dates without explanation, it's a sign of disorganization and lack of accountability.

I've been in construction for over 20 years, and I've seen projects in environments ranging from high desert to humid subtropical climates. Every region has its own challenges, and understanding those challenges is essential to delivering quality work. A contractor who's never worked in your area doesn't know the local building codes, doesn't understand the climate-specific issues, and hasn't developed relationships with local suppliers and inspectors.

At Earth in Motion, our experience spans multiple states and environments, but we're based in Austin, Texas. We know the soil conditions, the weather patterns, the building codes, and the common issues that properties in this area face. That local knowledge informs every decision we make—from material selection to installation methods to project timelines.

Your roof is too important to leave in the hands of someone who isn't qualified, experienced, and committed to doing the job right. Whether you're dealing with storm damage, planning a replacement, or just want peace of mind that your roof will protect your home for decades, the decisions you make now matter.

Ask the right questions. Verify credentials. Get everything in writing. Don't settle for vague answers or pressure tactics. And remember that the cheapest bid isn't always the best value. What you want is a contractor who understands your property, respects your investment, and delivers workmanship that stands the test of time.

At Earth in Motion, we've built our reputation on solving problems for clients, not creating them. We approach every project—whether it's a custom pond, a site grading challenge, or a roofing solution—with the same commitment to quality, integrity, and long-term performance. If you're looking for a roofer in The Hills who treats your property with the care it deserves, we're here to help.

Before hiring any roofer, I always tell clients to verify three critical credentials: proper licensing, comprehensive general liability insurance, and workers' compensation coverage. At Earth in Motion, we maintain all required licensing and carry full insurance protection because it's essential for your peace of mind. You should also ask about the contractor's experience in your specific area—understanding local building codes, weather patterns, and regional challenges makes a significant difference in the quality of work. Don't just take their word for it; ask to see current insurance certificates and licensing documentation, and verify that they're familiar with The Hills' specific building requirements and climate conditions.

Property protection is non-negotiable on every roofing project we handle at Earth in Motion. Before any work begins, we cover all landscaping, move outdoor furniture to safe areas, and protect gutters and downspouts from falling debris. We set up tarps and barriers strategically to catch materials and prevent damage to walkways, driveways, and planted areas. At the end of each workday, we perform thorough cleanup to remove nails, shingle fragments, and packaging materials—your property shouldn't look like a construction zone when we leave. This attention to detail comes from treating every property like our own and understanding that your home and landscape represent significant investments that deserve respect and protection.

Several key factors influence roofing project costs, and I always explain these to clients so they understand where their investment goes. Material selection has the biggest impact—asphalt shingles are more affordable upfront, while metal roofing or tile options cost more initially but offer superior longevity and performance. Project complexity also drives costs: steep pitches, multiple valleys, dormers, skylights, and chimneys require more labor and specialized installation techniques. The condition of your existing roof structure affects pricing too—if we discover rotted decking or damaged flashing that needs repair, those issues must be addressed for a proper installation. At Earth in Motion, we price our work to reflect comprehensive insurance coverage, proper licensing, quality materials, and the expertise that comes from over 20 years in construction across different environments.

Code compliance and climate-appropriate installation are fundamental to every roofing project we complete. At Earth in Motion, we handle all permit acquisition and coordinate with local inspectors at required stages—typically after underlayment and flashing installation, and again upon project completion. For The Hills' climate, we focus on proper ventilation to prevent heat and moisture buildup, impact-resistant materials for hail protection, and wind-resistant installation methods for severe weather. We select underlayment, ice and water shields, and flashing materials specifically rated for Central Texas conditions, including intense UV exposure and dramatic temperature swings. Our experience working across different environments—from Colorado's freeze-thaw cycles to Texas heat—ensures we understand what materials and methods perform best in your specific climate.

Warranty protection is essential because your roof represents a major investment that should perform reliably for decades. At Earth in Motion, we provide comprehensive workmanship warranties that guarantee our installation meets professional standards and local building codes. This covers any issues that arise from improper installation, material handling, or workmanship defects. We also ensure you receive all manufacturer warranties on materials, which can range from 20 to 50 years depending on the products selected. These warranties matter because they protect your investment and provide recourse if problems develop. We document everything thoroughly and maintain detailed records, so if you ever need warranty service or decide to sell your property, you have complete protection and transferable coverage that adds value to your home.