Frequently Asked Questions

Asphalt shingles, metal, tile, and TPO systems each handle Texas heat and storms differently. Impact-resistant materials matter here since North Texas hail can reach 2.75 inches. At Overwatch Roofing, we evaluate your roof pitch, exposure, and budget to recommend materials engineered for local conditions.

Solar screens block heat before it enters your home through windows, reducing cooling costs by up to 25% during Texas summers. They filter UV rays that fade furniture while maintaining outward visibility. Most effective on west and south-facing windows where afternoon sun drives temperatures highest.

Replace when more than 30% of posts show rot or lean, or when rails and pickets have widespread damage. Repair works for isolated post problems, gate issues, or cosmetic damage. Texas clay soil movement affects fence stability, so we check post foundations before recommending the fix.

Roof square footage, gutter style (seamless aluminum, copper, half-round), downspout placement, and gutter guards drive pricing. Two-story homes need additional labor and safety equipment. Your roof pitch determines water flow volume, which affects gutter sizing and the number of downspouts required for proper drainage.

Most residential tear-offs and replacements finish in 1-3 days depending on square footage, roof complexity, and weather. We protect your landscaping, coordinate material delivery to avoid driveway damage, and handle all debris removal. Two-story homes or multi-level rooflines add installation time.

Most municipalities require permits for permanent structures over 200 square feet or those attached to your home. Van Alstyne, McKinney, Allen, Frisco, Plano, and Sherman each have specific setback and height requirements. We coordinate all permits and ensure your patio meets local building codes.

Stain adds color while penetrating wood to prevent moisture damage and UV breakdown. Sealer creates a protective barrier on the surface without changing wood color. Texas sun requires both for maximum protection - stain handles UV damage, sealer blocks moisture intrusion that causes warping and rot.

Wood offers traditional aesthetics with stain customization but needs resealing every 2-3 years in Texas weather. Metal pergolas resist wind and moisture better, require minimal maintenance, and handle North Texas storms without warping. Both integrate with existing decks and patios - choice depends on maintenance preference and design goals.

Clay soil expands when wet and shrinks during drought, creating movement that stresses concrete. Poor base preparation, inadequate drainage, and skipping control joints compound the problem. We use proper base materials, expansion joints, and reinforcement techniques designed for Texas soil conditions.

Twice yearly minimum - spring after tree pollen and fall after leaves drop. Properties with overhanging trees or near oak groves need quarterly cleaning. Clogged gutters overflow during Texas storms, causing fascia rot and foundation damage. Gutter guards reduce cleaning frequency but don't eliminate maintenance completely.