We have empowered countless customers to make smart roofing decisions for themselves and their families for over 32 years. We do this by educating and informing you about the roofing process. As a decision maker it is helpful to have relevant information, a trusted advisor and simple steps to follow before you get started on big purchase items like a roof. You might be unaware that there are 5 different stages in the roofing process. Let us arm you with important time, energy, and money saving information and simple steps you need to get started.
Stage 1: My roof is damaged and it needs replacement
If you are like most people two thoughts flashed through your head: What do I need to do, and who do I need to call?
Simple Steps:
- Call your insurance agent.
- Discuss your roof damage observations with your agent. He/She will give you information regarding your insurance coverage.
- Schedule an appointment with an insurance adjuster to evaluate your claim.
- Call Santex Roofing to schedule your free estimate.
Expert Advice: Schedule the appointment with your insurance adjuster no earlier than mid-morning. Roof damage is difficult to detect with morning dew. A dry roof allows the insurance agent to properly evaluate your roof.
Stage 2: I need a roof estimate
At this point, you begin your selection process. There is no set requirement for the number of estimates you get. We recommend that you get enough to feel comfortable with the different types of services available and you understand the market.
Simple Steps:
- Go online and research each company you are interested in. Look at their websites and get a feel for who they are. The yellow pages are also helpful.
- Compile a list of the top roofing companies you want to contact.
- Call the companies and interview them on the phone. This is your chance to get a first impression of the company and decide if you feel comfortable inviting them to your home.
- If you feel like the company is a good match, schedule your roof estimate.
Expert Advice: It would be best if you scheduled estimates when you are home. We highly recommend getting to know your roofer because you will enter into a relationship with the company. When you schedule an estimate with us, we make every effort to meet you in person.
Expert Advice: Make sure the roofing company specifies that the estimate is for the total completion of the roof. (If it is an estimate for a repair, make sure they specify it is for the complete repair area.) Sometimes the lowest bidder only estimates part of the roof, and after they begin the roof they inform you that is going to cost more if you want them to finish. The lowest bidder in the beginning is not always the lowest in the end.
How much does Santex Roofing charge me for an estimate?
Our policy since 1983 is that estimates are always free of charge.
How can I get an estimate from Santex Roofing?
Contact us online or by telephone to schedule a free estimate and consultation with our roofing experts.
What happens when Santex Roofing gives Estimates?
When a Santex owner comes to your home, we use that time as an opportunity to find solutions to your roofing concerns and teach you about your roofing system. You may feel overwhelmed because you might not know enough about roofs to make an informed decision. As experts in the industry, we give you helpful information to aid in the decision making process.
How long does an estimate take?
It will take roughly 10-15 minutes to measure the roof and another 10-15 minutes to present the bid sheet and answer all your questions. Santex will be at your for 30 minutes or less.
Who will come to my house to give me an estimate?
Feel confident knowing when you deal with us, you are always dealing with an owner. When you call into the office, you will talk with Michelle Lopez. Out in the field Alonso Jr., and Alonso III (Tiger) are giving estimates and managing jobs. For more information about the members of the Lopez family click on Our Family Story.
Stage 3: I need to hire a roofing company
You have multiple bid sheets in your hand, you interviewed each company to see which met your needs, and you did your online research to see who is trustworthy. Now you get to choose the roofer that you believe will deliver the best results.
Simple Steps:
- Brainstorm some key points that your roofing company must meet. Which ones meet your criteria?
- Ensure that each company you consider is from San Antonio or in the near vicinity of San Antonio. You can do this by Googling companies online and checking in with the Better Business Bureau.
- Did you meet in person or talk to the roofing company on phone? If not, call and have a conversation with your potential company. You need to talk to your roofer and make sure you feel comfortable investing your time and opening up your home to your new roofer.
- Don’t forget about the long-term relationship you will have with your company. Read stage 5 for some hints about this relationship.
Expert Adcice: Many fly-by-night companies chase hail storms around the country and are nowhere to be found when you need them. This is why we stress the importance of getting to know your roofer and looking local. If you have been the victim of this type of business practice, we advise you to call the District Attorney and report the company. We know is this frustrating, but give us a call and we will gladly give you a free estimate.
Stage 4: I am ready to schedule my roof installation
Congratulations, you have made your decision to go fourth with your new roof installation. There are a few more steps to consider before your home can be updated with a beautiful, sturdy, and safe roof over your head.
Simple Steps:
- Go to your local Home Depot or Lowes to see physical examples of shingle choices available to you.
- Write down any last questions you have about your roofing system to ask your roofer.
Expert Advice: The strength of a shingle is actually in its flexibility and moisture content. You might think that the more rigid a shingle is the better; but actually if a shingle is moist and flexible as opposed to dry and brittle they are stronger. You want those hail stones to bounce off your roof, not smash into it. We prefer using Owens Corning and GAF roofing materials due to their strength and resiliency factors.
Expert Advice: Although roofing companies are careful not to drop nails off the roof into your yard, it is nearly impossible to prevent this from happening. To ensure you have a clean and safe yard, make sure you request a thorough sweep of your yard with a lawn magnet from the roofing company you hire.
What happens if I choose Santex to do my roof? What should I expect?
Once you made your decision, we will come over to your home and meet with you and your family. We review the contract, select a color and style of roof shingle, go over any last details about the job and schedule a date to do your roof. We find this meeting incredibly helpful for homeowners as it gives you another chance to ask any questions and address any concerns you might still have.
Who will be at my house the day the roof is installed?
Alonso Jr. or Alonso III will oversee that the installation process is handled correctly. You will also meet Rolando Romero. He is our crew manager, and has been a part of the Santex family for nearly 25 years. He is the liaison between homeowners and our office when Santex constructs your roof. He oversees the job to ensure quality workmanship and clean-up. He also conducts the primary inspection upon job completion. You can expect somewhere between 4-5 crew members depending on the size of your roof. To learn more about Rolando and his family click Our Family Story.
How long does it take to complete a roof?
Most homes take only 1 day to complete, but some larger homes may take 2 days. We finish your job completely before moving on the next, so you will never be stranded with a bare roof that is open to the elements.
Do I have to take off work the day my roof is done? Do you need access to the inside of my house?
No, you do not have to take off work. If you are unable to be home, we will still complete the work as scheduled. We never need access to the inside of your home; however, we do need access to the front and backyard and electrical outlets.
There is a small chance of rain and its cloudy, should I still get my roof done?
No. If there is any chance of rain in the forecast we normally reschedule a date after the weather clears up. We would never put your home in jeopardy for the sake of keeping our schedule. We want to give you a quality roof that withstands the years – that is our only desire.
How much money should I give my roofer up front to start the job?
Typically a down payment is not necessary. If a company is asking you for money up front, more than likely they do not have the capital to purchase the materials needed for the roof. If you are in this situation you should question the workmanship warranty. This might indicate that the company may not be in business long-term. The advantage of going with Santex is we are an established company that collects only after the work is completed, the final inspection is passed and you feel satisfied.
Sage 5: My relationship with my roofing company
Often overlooked in the initial excitement of purchasing a new roof, this is perhaps the most important stage to consider out of the 5 stages. Consider this: most roofs last a decade or more, is your roofing company going to still be around when you need them the most 5, 10, or 20 years down the road?
Simple Steps:
- Get informed and to ask the tough questions. Google searches and reviews are wonderful tools to help you decide if your company will be around for the long haul.
- Look for a local company that is established in the community.
- Research companies on the Better Business Bureau website.
- Find out what types of warranties each company offers.
Expert Advice: Some companies may offer extended warranties to unsuspecting customers. They sound wonderful, but sadly most roofing companies are nowhere to be found when you need them. Many roofing companies in past year’s phone book are nowhere to be found in the next year’s issue. You can feel confident knowing Santex will be here for many years to come, and we will stand by you when it matters the most.
What type of relationship and commitment will I have with Santex Roofing after my roof is completed?
We remain dedicated to you long after your roof is completed. We offer a 10 year workmanship warranty on total roof replacements, but if something comes up after that time period has passed do not hesitate to call us. We will come out and asses the problem at no charge to you. In addition to our warranty, we will also stay in contact with you throughout the years with the newsletter we send out quarterly to our customers. In the Newsletter you will get free money and time saving tips on extending the life of your roof and home.
What is the manufactures warranty on the materials used?
The warranty depends on which shingle you decide on. Dimensional shingles carry a lifetime warranty, while Three-tab shingles come with a 25 year manufacturer’s warranty.
Do you have any policies, discounts or benefits I should be aware of?
We feel incredibly blessed and privileged to serve our community for nearly 30 years. As a way to show our appreciation we offer discounts to ALL of our customers. There are incentives for every home owner including, but not limited to military service personnel and senior citizen discounts.