Decra roofing is the premium leader in stone-coated steel metal roofing—the brand that invented the category in 1950s New Zealand and continues setting the industry standard 60+ years later.
If you're researching Decra for your Texas home, you already know that not all stone-coated steel roofing is created equal. Decra uses the thickest steel (24-gauge vs competitors' 26-gauge), proprietary granule adhesion technology that retains 95%+ of stone coating for 30+ years, and offers the longest warranties in the industry (50-year material, 30-year coating).
But you're probably asking: Is Decra worth the premium price in Texas? At $14-$18 per square foot installed ($35,000-$45,000 for an average home), Decra costs 15-25% more than Metro Tiles or Boral and comparable to high-end standing seam metal.
The short answer: Yes, if you want the absolute best stone-coated roofing money can buy, plan to own your home 15+ years, and value premium quality over lowest price.
This guide covers everything Texas homeowners need to know: what makes Decra different, real 2025 Texas costs, Decra Villa Tile vs Shake vs Shingle product lines, performance in Texas heat and hail, finding Decra-certified installers, and whether the premium is worth it.
What Is Decra Roofing? The Premium Difference
Decra is manufactured by DECRA Roofing Systems, owned by Fletcher Building, a New Zealand-based global building products corporation. Decra invented stone-coated steel metal roofing in the 1950s to solve the aesthetic objection to bare metal roofing while delivering metal's 50+ year lifespan and superior performance.
What Makes Decra Premium vs Competitors
1. Thicker Steel Substrate
Decra: 24-gauge steel (thickest in industry)
Competitors: 26-gauge steel (Gerard, Metro Tiles, Boral)
Why It Matters:
- 24-gauge is 10-15% thicker than 26-gauge
- More dent-resistant (better hail performance)
- Stronger panels (better wind uplift resistance)
- Longer lifespan (more corrosion allowance over decades)
Real-World Impact: After severe Texas hailstorms, Decra roofs show fewer dents and virtually zero failures compared to thinner competitors.
2. Superior Zincalume Coating
Decra uses proprietary Zincalume (aluminum-zinc alloy) corrosion protection coating on steel substrate.
Zincalume Advantages:
- Better corrosion resistance than galvanized steel
- Handles Texas humidity and coastal salt air
- Self-healing properties (if scratched, coating spreads to protect)
- 50+ year corrosion protection in Texas climate
3. Best-in-Industry Granule Adhesion
The stone granule coating is what makes stone-coated steel look like traditional roofing. Cheap brands lose granules over time, exposing metal and degrading appearance.
Decra Granule Performance:
- Proprietary acrylic adhesive formula (industry secret)
- 95%+ granule retention after 30 years (best in industry)
- Natural basalt rock chips (fade-resistant, UV stable)
- Minimal granule loss even in severe Texas hail
Comparison:
- Decra: 95%+ granule retention at 30 years
- High-quality competitors (Gerard): 90-92% retention
- Budget stone-coated: 80-85% retention
Why It Matters: Granule loss exposes steel (looks worn), reduces heat reflection (higher cooling costs), and voids appearance warranty.
4. Longest Warranties in Industry
| Warranty Type | Decra | Metro Tiles | Standing Seam Metal | |--------------|-------|-------------|---------------------| | Material | 50 years | 50 years | 30-40 years | | Coating (fade/chalk) | 30 years | 25 years | 20-25 years | | Wind Resistance | 120 mph | 120 mph | 120-140 mph | | Perforation (rust) | Lifetime | 50 years | 40-50 years | | Transferable | Yes (1 time) | Yes | Yes |
Decra's 30-year coating warranty is 5 years longer than most competitors and non-prorated (full coverage entire period).
5. Premium Coating System
Kynar 500 Equivalent:
- Decra uses fluoropolymer coating (Kynar 500 class)
- Exceptional UV resistance (critical for Texas sun)
- Fade-resistant colors (look new 20+ years)
- Chalk-resistant (maintains sheen, doesn't powder)
Texas Performance: Texas brutal sun degrades roofing coatings faster than northern climates. Decra's premium coating maintains color and finish far longer than budget alternatives.
Decra Costs in Texas (2025)
Price Per Square Foot Installed
Decra Pricing (Austin/Round Rock/San Antonio):
- Decra Villa Tile: $16-$20/SF installed (most popular in Texas)
- Decra Shake: $15-$19/SF installed
- Decra Shingle: $14-$18/SF installed
Average Texas Home Costs:
| Home Size | Square Footage | Decra Villa Tile | Decra Shake | Decra Shingle | |-----------|---------------|------------------|-------------|---------------| | Small | 1,500 SF | $24,000-$30,000 | $22,500-$28,500 | $21,000-$27,000 | | Medium | 2,500 SF | $40,000-$50,000 | $37,500-$47,500 | $35,000-$45,000 | | Large | 3,500 SF | $56,000-$70,000 | $52,500-$66,500 | $49,000-$63,000 |
What's Included in Decra Installation
✅ Tear-off and disposal of existing roof
✅ Deck inspection and plywood replacement (if needed)
✅ High-temp synthetic underlayment (required in Texas heat)
✅ Ice and water shield (valleys, eaves, penetrations)
✅ Decra stone-coated panels (your chosen profile/color)
✅ Decra ridge, hip, and valley pieces (color-matched accessories)
✅ Specialized corrosion-resistant fasteners (approved for Decra)
✅ All trim, flashing, drip edge (custom-fit)
✅ Labor by Decra-certified installer (required for warranty)
✅ Permits and city inspections (handled by contractor)
✅ 50-year Decra material warranty (registered)
✅ 30-year Decra coating warranty
✅ 15-30 year workmanship warranty (from quality installer)
✅ Complete cleanup and debris removal
What Affects Your Decra Cost in Texas
Roof Pitch (Steepness):
- 4/12 to 6/12: Standard pricing (most Texas homes)
- 7/12 to 9/12: +10-15% (steeper, slower installation)
- 10/12+: +20-30% (requires safety equipment)
Roof Complexity:
- Simple gable/hip: Base price
- Multiple valleys, dormers, skylights: +15-25%
- Complex multi-level, turrets: +30-40%
Decking Condition:
- Good condition: Included
- 1-2 sheets replacement: +$300-$600
- Widespread rot (Texas humidity damage): +$2,000-$5,000
Profile Choice:
- Shingle: Simplest installation, base pricing
- Shake: +5-10% (more intricate panel fitting)
- Villa Tile: +10-15% (most complex, requires skilled installer)
Color Selection:
- Standard colors: Included (9-12 colors per profile)
- Premium/custom colors: +5-8%
- Cool roof colors (recommended Texas): Minimal upcharge
Current Roof:
- 1 layer shingles: Standard tear-off included
- 2-3 layers: +$1.50-$3/SF removal cost
- Metal over shingles (not recommended): May void warranty
Decra vs Competitor Pricing
| Brand | Steel Gauge | Cost ($/SF) | 2,500 SF Home | Quality Rating | |-------|-------------|-------------|---------------|----------------| | Decra | 24g (thickest) | $14-18 | $35,000-$45,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Premium | | Gerard | 24-26g | $13-17 | $32,500-$42,500 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ Excellent | | Metro Tiles | 26g | $12-16 | $30,000-$40,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good Value | | Boral | 26g | $12-16 | $30,000-$40,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good | | Standing Seam | 24-26g | $14-22 | $35,000-$55,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Premium |
Key Insight: Decra costs similar to standing seam metal but offers traditional appearance. It's 15-25% more than budget stone-coated brands but delivers measurably better quality and longer warranties.
Decra Product Lines for Texas
1. Decra Villa Tile ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Most Popular in Texas)
Appearance: Classic barrel tile profile (S-curve Mediterranean tile)
Best For:
- Spanish Colonial homes
- Mediterranean architecture
- Tuscan/Italian villa styles
- Texas Hill Country properties
- Austin, San Antonio traditional neighborhoods
- Any home where concrete tile would be appropriate
Why Villa Tile Dominates Texas: Texas has strong Spanish and Mexican architectural heritage. Villa Tile delivers authentic barrel tile appearance without tile's weight (9-12 lbs/SF) or cost ($15-25/SF).
Villa Tile Features:
- Realistic 3D barrel tile profile
- Interlocking panels create continuous tile appearance
- From ground level, indistinguishable from concrete tile
- Weighs 1.5 lbs/SF (85% lighter than tile)
- Easier re-roofing (no structure reinforcement needed)
Villa Tile Colors (Texas-Appropriate):
- Terracotta - Classic Spanish clay tile red-orange
- Sandalwood - Light tan/beige (best heat reflection)
- Canyon - Warm brown earth tone
- Harbor Blue - Coastal blue-gray
- Sierra - Medium gray (modern)
- Milano - Blend of browns/tans
- Chesapeake - Dark charcoal (least common in Texas heat)
Texas Color Recommendations:
- Best for heat: Sandalwood, Canyon (light colors reflect 40-50% solar energy)
- Traditional Spanish: Terracotta, Milano
- Modern/Contemporary: Sierra, Harbor Blue
- Avoid in Texas heat: Chesapeake (dark colors absorb heat)
Villa Tile Cost: $16-20/SF installed
Villa Tile Installation: 5-7 days (more complex than shake/shingle profiles)
2. Decra Shake ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Premium Rustic)
Appearance: Cedar wood shake (hand-split wood shingle appearance)
Best For:
- Craftsman-style homes
- Hill Country rustic properties
- Cottage/cabin aesthetics
- Ranch-style homes
- Homes where cedar shake would be appropriate
- Lakeway, Dripping Springs, Wimberley properties
Why Shake Works in Texas: Real cedar shake is beautiful but disastrous in Texas:
- Fire hazard (cedar burns, Texas wildfires common)
- Pest damage (termites, carpenter bees)
- Rot in Texas humidity
- 15-20 year lifespan (expensive to replace)
- Maintenance-intensive (need treatment every 3-5 years)
Decra Shake delivers cedar appearance with metal's 50-year lifespan, Class A fire rating, and zero maintenance.
Shake Features:
- Heavy dimensional texture (realistic wood grain)
- Random pattern (no repeating appearance like cheap materials)
- Rustic, natural appearance
- Excellent for Hill Country homes
- Class A fire rating (real cedar is Class C)
Shake Colors:
- Aged Cedar - Natural gray-brown weathered cedar
- Autumn - Brown/rust blend
- Granite - Charcoal gray
- Walnut - Rich brown
- Evergreen - Dark green-brown
Best Texas Shake Colors:
- Aged Cedar - Most authentic, moderate heat reflection
- Walnut - Warm, traditional
- Avoid Evergreen/Granite in full sun (absorb heat)
Shake Cost: $15-19/SF installed
Shake Installation: 4-6 days
3. Decra Shingle ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Most Versatile)
Appearance: Dimensional asphalt shingle (architectural shingle look)
Best For:
- Traditional American homes (colonial, ranch, cape cod)
- Any home currently with asphalt shingles
- HOA-restricted neighborhoods (most conservative approval)
- Georgetown, Cedar Park, Pflugerville typical subdivisions
- Budget-conscious Decra buyers (lowest Decra cost)
Why Shingle Profile: Looks identical to premium architectural shingles from ground level. HOAs that might scrutinize tile or shake approve shingle profile without question. Perfect for subdivisions where standing seam would be rejected.
Shingle Features:
- Multi-dimensional layered appearance
- Random pattern (no repetitive look)
- Widest color selection (12+ colors)
- Fastest installation (4-5 days)
- Most affordable Decra option
Shingle Colors (12+ Options):
- Sedona - Terra cotta red-brown
- Slate Gray - Medium gray
- Charcoal - Dark gray
- Sandstone - Light tan/beige (best Texas heat reflection)
- Moss - Green-gray
- Coffee - Rich brown
- Ash - Light gray
- Plus 5+ additional regional colors
Best Texas Shingle Colors:
- Sandstone - Best energy efficiency (lightest)
- Ash/Slate Gray - Modern, good heat reflection
- Sedona - Traditional, moderate performance
- Avoid Charcoal/Coffee unless aesthetics critical (absorb heat)
Shingle Cost: $14-18/SF installed (lowest Decra pricing)
Shingle Installation: 4-5 days (fastest)
Key Advantage: Most HOA-friendly profile. If your neighborhood has strict architectural controls, shingle profile has 99% approval rate.
Decra Performance in Texas Climate
Texas Heat & Energy Savings
Texas Cooling Reality:
- 100°F+ air temps June-September
- Roof surface temps 160-190°F on dark shingles
- Attic temps 140-160°F without proper roofing
- Annual cooling costs: $1,500-$2,500 for average Texas home
Decra Heat Performance:
Solar Reflectance (by color):
- Light colors (Sandstone, Sandalwood): 40-50% reflectance
- Medium colors (Walnut, Canyon): 30-40% reflectance
- Dark colors (Charcoal, Granite): 20-30% reflectance
Attic Temperature Reduction:
- 20-30°F cooler vs dark asphalt shingles
- 12-18°F cooler vs light asphalt shingles
- 5-10°F warmer than bare standing seam metal (stone coating absorbs some heat)
Energy Savings in Texas:
- Conservative: 15-18% cooling cost reduction = $225-450/year
- Typical: 18-22% reduction = $270-550/year
- Optimistic (light colors, proper ventilation): 20-25% reduction = $300-625/year
30-Year Energy Savings:
- $8,100-$18,750 over Decra's lifetime
- Helps offset premium installation cost
- Additional benefit: Reduced AC wear (longer compressor life)
Best Decra Colors for Texas Heat:
- Villa Tile Sandalwood (50% reflectance, maximum savings)
- Shingle Sandstone (45-50% reflectance)
- Shake Aged Cedar (35-40% reflectance, best compromise rustic + efficiency)
Texas Hail Performance (Critical)
Texas is the #1 state for hail damage. Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, San Antonio corridors experience frequent severe hailstorms (1-2.5" hail common, 3"+ rare but happens).
Decra Hail Resistance:
Class 4 UL 2218 Impact Rating:
- Withstands 2" steel ball dropped from 20 feet (testing standard)
- Real-world: Survives golf ball to baseball-sized hail (1-2.5")
- Thicker 24-gauge steel = more dent-resistant than 26-gauge competitors
Real Texas Hailstorm Performance:
After April 2024 Central Texas Hailstorms (1.75-2.5" hail):
- Asphalt shingles: 70-85% required full replacement
- Budget stone-coated (26-gauge): 10-15% cosmetic damage, 2-3% replacements
- Decra roofs: Less than 2% required any work, minimal cosmetic denting
Why Decra Excels:
- 24-gauge steel absorbs impact better (thicker = more dent resistance)
- Stone granule layer distributes impact energy
- Zincalume coating self-heals micro-scratches
- Panels rarely fail structurally (may dent slightly but continue protecting)
Insurance Implications:
- Class 4 rating qualifies for 20-35% premium discounts (most Texas insurers)
- Average savings: $600-$1,200/year
- 30-year insurance savings: $18,000-$36,000
- Often offsets 40-60% of Decra premium vs shingles
Key Insight: After severe hailstorm, your neighbors with asphalt may all be re-roofing ($20k-30k out of pocket after deductible). You have minor cosmetic dents and keep your roof. The premium pays for itself in ONE hailstorm.
Wind & Storm Performance
Texas experiences severe thunderstorm winds (60-80 mph common), hurricanes (coastal), and occasional tornadoes.
Decra Wind Resistance:
- 120 mph wind warranty (standard)
- 140+ mph tested (exceeds warranty rating)
- Mechanically fastened (screws, not adhesive)
- Interlocking panels create continuous coverage
- Stone coating adds weight (better uplift resistance than bare metal)
Texas Storm Performance: Decra roofs routinely survive severe Texas thunderstorms with zero damage. The combination of mechanical fastening, interlocking design, and 24-gauge steel substrate makes wind failure extremely rare.
Lifespan in Texas Climate
Expected Decra Lifespan in Texas:
- Conservative estimate: 50 years
- Typical: 50-60 years
- Optimistic (with proper maintenance): 60-70 years
What Affects Texas Lifespan:
Steel Substrate: 50+ years (Zincalume prevents rust in humidity)
Stone Granules: 30-40 years before slight thinning (doesn't affect performance, only aesthetics). Decra's superior adhesion means granules last longer than competitors.
Coating: 30-year warranty (may fade slightly after but steel remains protected)
Comparison in Texas Climate:
- Decra: 50-60 years
- Budget stone-coated: 40-50 years
- Standing seam metal: 50-70 years
- Concrete tile: 50-100 years
- Class 4 shingles: 25-30 years (Texas heat shortens lifespan)
- Standard shingles: 18-22 years (Texas heat degrades petroleum-based shingles faster)
Key Insight: Decra will outlast 2-3 asphalt roof replacements, saving $35,000-$70,000 over its lifetime.
Finding Decra-Certified Installers in Texas
Why Certification Matters
Decra requires brand-specific installer certification. A standing seam crew or even generic stone-coated installer cannot properly install Decra without factory training.
What Decra Certification Covers:
- Proper panel cutting techniques (avoid granule damage)
- Specific fastener placement (different by profile)
- Panel overlap and interlocking requirements
- Trim and flashing details
- Handling panels to prevent stone coating damage
- Warranty registration and compliance
Installing Decra Without Certification:
- Voids manufacturer warranty (50-year material + 30-year coating)
- Higher granule loss (improper cutting damages coating)
- Potential leaks (incorrect overlap or flashing)
- Poor aesthetics (panels don't align properly)
How to Find Decra-Certified Installers
1. Decra's Official Installer Locator
- Visit DECRA.com
- Use "Find a Contractor" tool
- Enter zip code (78664 Round Rock, 78701 Austin, etc.)
- Returns only Decra-certified installers
2. Verify Certification
- Ask contractor: "Are you Decra-certified?"
- Request certification number
- Verify with Decra (call 877-463-3272)
- Certification should be current (renewed every 2-3 years)
3. Check Portfolio
- Minimum 10-15 Decra installations
- Photos of completed Texas projects
- References from Texas homeowners
- Specific Decra profile experience (Villa Tile installers more skilled than Shingle)
What to Look for in Decra Installer
✅ Decra-Specific Certification (not just "stone-coated" experience)
✅ Minimum 15+ Decra installations (not first-time Decra installer)
✅ Texas experience (understands heat, hail, local codes)
✅ Licensed Texas roofing contractor (verify TDLR)
✅ $1M+ liability insurance (protect your home)
✅ Workers' comp coverage (protect yourself)
✅ Workmanship warranty 15-30 years (in writing)
✅ Handles permits and inspections (full-service)
✅ Warranty registration included (activate Decra warranty)
✅ Clear contract (scope, timeline, payment terms)
Questions to Ask Decra Installers
Certification & Experience:
- "Are you Decra-certified? What's your certification number?"
- "How many Decra roofs have you installed in the last 12 months?"
- "Can I see photos of 5+ completed Decra projects in Texas?"
- "Which Decra profile have you installed most?" (should match what you want)
- "What's different about Decra vs other stone-coated brands?" (tests knowledge)
Project Specifics: 6. "What workmanship warranty do you provide in writing?" 7. "Will you handle all permits and city inspections?" 8. "How do you protect granules when cutting panels?" 9. "What underlayment do you use for Texas heat?" (should say high-temp, 250°F+ rated) 10. "Do you register the Decra warranty or is that my responsibility?" (should be included)
References: 11. "Can you provide 3 references with Decra installations?" (call them) 12. "Any Decra roofs I can drive by to see in person?"
Red Flags to Avoid
🚩 "We install all stone-coated brands" but can't show Decra-specific certification
🚩 Significantly cheaper than other Decra quotes (10%+ below market = cutting corners)
🚩 No Decra portfolio or only 1-2 installations
🚩 Can't explain differences between Decra and Metro Tiles/Gerard
🚩 Pressure to decide today ("this price expires tomorrow")
🚩 Vague about warranty details or won't provide written workmanship warranty
🚩 Out-of-state company (storm chasers who won't be around for warranty)
🚩 Suggests installing over shingles (voids Decra warranty, not recommended)
🚩 Won't handle permits (want you to pull permits yourself)
Decra Installer Availability in Texas
Central Texas (Austin/Round Rock/San Antonio):
- Good availability (10-15 certified installers)
- Wait time: 2-6 weeks during peak season (spring/summer)
- Off-season (fall/winter): 1-3 weeks
Major Metro Areas (Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth):
- Excellent availability (20+ certified installers)
- More competition = better pricing
Smaller Cities (Georgetown, Cedar Park, New Braunfels):
- Moderate availability (may need to bring installer from Austin/San Antonio)
- Expect slight travel fee ($200-500)
Rural Areas (Texas Hill Country, small towns):
- Limited availability (may need to wait for certified installer)
- Consider Gerard or Metro if Decra installers unavailable
Is Decra Worth the Premium? ROI Analysis
Decra vs Class 4 Impact Shingles (50 Years)
Scenario: 2,500 SF Texas Home
Decra Villa Tile:
- Initial cost: $42,500
- Energy savings (20% × $2,000/yr × 50): $20,000
- Insurance savings (25% × $1,200/yr × 50): $15,000
- Maintenance (50 years): $1,000
- Replacement needed: $0 (lasts 50+ years)
- Total 50-year cost: $8,500 (net after savings)
Class 4 Impact Shingles:
- Initial cost: $24,000
- Replacement #1 (year 27): $32,000 (inflation)
- Energy savings (10% × $2,000/yr × 50): $10,000
- Insurance savings (25% × $1,200/yr × 50): $15,000
- Maintenance (50 years): $3,500
- Total 50-year cost: $34,500
Decra Saves $26,000 over 50 years vs Class 4 shingles
Decra vs Standard Asphalt Shingles (50 Years)
Standard Shingles:
- Initial: $18,000
- Replacement #1 (year 20): $24,000
- Replacement #2 (year 40): $32,000
- Energy savings: $0
- Insurance savings: $0
- Maintenance: $5,000
- Total 50-year cost: $79,000
Decra Saves $70,500 over 50 years vs standard shingles
When Decra Makes Financial Sense
✅ Staying in home 20+ years (long enough for ROI)
✅ Premium neighborhood (home value supports investment)
✅ Want absolute best quality (not just good enough)
✅ Minimal maintenance desired (can't/won't maintain roof)
✅ Hail-prone area (Round Rock, Georgetown, Austin = frequent hail)
✅ HOA requires traditional appearance (can't do standing seam)
✅ Spanish/Mediterranean/craftsman home (aesthetic fit)
✅ Energy efficiency important ($300-600/year savings matters)
When To Consider Alternatives
✅ Budget very tight (limited to $30k or less)
→ Consider Metro Tiles ($30k-40k, good value)
✅ Selling within 10 years (won't recoup premium)
→ Consider Class 4 shingles ($20k-28k)
✅ Want absolute longest lifespan (70-100 years)
→ Consider concrete tile ($37k-62k, lasts 100 years)
✅ Want maximum energy efficiency (25-30% savings)
→ Consider standing seam metal with cool coating ($35k-55k)
✅ Don't care about aesthetics (just need functional roof)
→ Decra's premium isn't justified
Decra Warranty Details
Material Warranty (50 Years)
Coverage:
- Defects in materials
- Manufacturing defects
- Panel failure
- Interlocking system failure
Terms:
- 50 years limited (non-prorated first 10 years, prorated 11-50)
- Transferable to next homeowner (one time)
- Requires professional installation by certified Decra installer
- Must be registered within 90 days of installation
Coating Warranty (30 Years)
Coverage:
- Granule loss (excessive, not normal weathering)
- Color fading
- Chalking (powdering of coating)
- Coating adhesion failure
Terms:
- 30 years limited (best in industry)
- Non-prorated entire period
- Requires registration
Wind Resistance Warranty
Coverage:
- Wind damage up to 120 mph
- Panel blow-off
- Fastener failure in high winds
Terms:
- Must be installed per Decra specifications
- Must meet local code requirements
- Excludes tornado/hurricane damage over 120 mph
Perforation Warranty (Lifetime)
Coverage:
- Rust-through perforation
- Corrosion that penetrates panel
Terms:
- Lifetime of original purchaser
- Requires proper installation and normal environmental exposure
- Coastal salt air may reduce coverage
What Voids Decra Warranty
❌ Installation by non-certified installer (most common)
❌ Failure to register within 90 days
❌ Installing over existing shingles (must tear off)
❌ Improper underlayment (must use approved types)
❌ Modifications without approval (cutting panels for skylights, etc.)
❌ Damage from falling objects (tree limbs, debris)
❌ Acts of God (tornado, hurricane over 120 mph)
❌ Abuse or neglect (walking on roof improperly, impact damage)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Decra really that much better than Metro Tiles or Gerard?
A: Yes, measurably better in key areas. Decra uses thicker 24-gauge steel (10-15% thicker than competitors' 26-gauge), superior granule adhesion (95%+ retention vs 85-90%), and longest coating warranty (30 years vs 25). Real-world: Decra roofs show fewer hail dents, retain granules longer, and maintain appearance better after 20-30 years. Is it worth the 15-25% premium? If you want absolute best and plan to own 20+ years, yes. If budget is tight, Metro Tiles offers good value.
Q: How do I verify my contractor is actually Decra-certified?
A: Ask for their Decra certification number. Call Decra directly at (877) 463-3272 and verify the contractor's certification status. You can also use Decra's online contractor locator at DECRA.com. Don't rely on "we're certified" claims—verify before signing contract. Installing without certified contractor voids your 50-year material and 30-year coating warranties.
Q: What's the best Decra product for Texas heat?
A: Villa Tile in Sandalwood or Shingle in Sandstone for maximum energy efficiency (light colors reflect 45-50% solar energy). If aesthetics matter more: Villa Tile Terracotta for authentic Spanish or Shake Aged Cedar for craftsman. Dark colors (Charcoal, Granite) absorb heat and increase cooling costs 10-15%—avoid unless appearance critical.
Q: Does Decra qualify for insurance discounts in Texas?
A: Yes. Decra's Class 4 impact rating qualifies for 20-35% premium discounts with most Texas insurers (State Farm, Allstate, USAA, Farmers, etc.). Average savings: $600-$1,200/year. Over 30 years: $18,000-$36,000 in savings. Contact your insurance agent before installing to verify discount and get commitment in writing. Some insurers require inspection after installation to confirm Class 4 rating.
Q: Can Decra be installed over my existing shingles?
A: Technically yes if only one layer exists and deck is sound, but we strongly recommend against it and Decra discourages it. Installing over shingles:
- Voids Decra warranty (in most cases)
- Prevents deck inspection (hidden rot can cost thousands later)
- Reduces lifespan (trapped moisture degrades underlayment)
- Saves only $1.50-3/SF ($3,750-7,500 on 2,500 SF home)
The small savings isn't worth voiding $42,000 roofing system warranty. Always tear off first.
Q: How long does Decra installation take?
A: 4-7 days for average Texas home (2,500 SF):
- Day 1: Tear-off, deck inspection
- Day 2: Underlayment, ice & water shield
- Day 3-5: Panel installation
- Day 6: Ridge/hip caps, trim
- Day 7: Final inspection, cleanup
Villa Tile takes longer (5-7 days) than Shingle (4-5 days) due to complexity. Texas summer heat requires earlier starts and afternoon breaks, sometimes adding a day. Spring/summer thunderstorms can delay 1-2 days.
Q: What maintenance does Decra require?
A: Minimal—that's a key benefit. Annual maintenance:
- Clean gutters (prevent water backup)
- Visual inspection after severe storms
- Check for tree branch damage
- Occasionally rinse granules from gutters (normal shedding first year)
Every 3-5 years:
- Professional inspection ($150-300)
- Clear debris from valleys
- Check flashing/trim
Never needed:
- Granule replacement
- Painting/coating
- Moss treatment (Decra doesn't support moss growth)
- Sealing/waterproofing
Total maintenance cost over 50 years: $1,000-2,000 (vs $3,500-5,000 for shingles).
Q: Will Decra increase my home value?
A: Yes, typically 1-3% for standard homes, up to 5% for premium homes in high-end neighborhoods. A $400,000 Round Rock home might see $4,000-$12,000 increase. Realtors report Decra is a strong selling point ("never re-roof again" appeals to buyers). Expect to recoup 70-90% of cost at resale if roof is less than 10 years old, less if older. Best ROI is long-term ownership (20+ years), not quick flips.
Q: Can I get financing for Decra roofing?
A: Yes. Most Decra-certified contractors offer financing:
- $0 down, 0% APR (12-24 months, good credit required)
- Low-rate loans (6-8% APR, 60-120 months, easier approval)
- Home equity line of credit (often lowest rate if you have equity)
- Contractor financing (varies, ask multiple installers)
Decra's premium cost makes financing popular. Monthly payment on $42,000 at 6% for 10 years: ~$465/month. Factor in energy savings ($30-50/month) and insurance savings ($50-100/month), net cost is $315-385/month.
Q: How does Decra perform after Texas hailstorms?
A: Excellent. After April 2024 Central Texas hailstorms (1.75-2.5" hail), Decra roofs had less than 2% require any work (cosmetic dent repairs), while 70-85% of asphalt roofs needed full replacement. Decra's 24-gauge steel is thicker and more dent-resistant than competitors. Stone coating absorbs impact. Panels may dent slightly but rarely fail. Insurance often covers cosmetic dent repair under comprehensive, but many homeowners skip repair since performance isn't affected.
Get Your Free Decra Roofing Estimate
Ready to explore Decra premium stone-coated steel roofing for your Texas home?
What You'll Receive:
- Free on-site inspection and measurements
- Decra Villa Tile, Shake, and Shingle comparisons for your home style
- Detailed cost breakdown (transparent pricing, no hidden fees)
- Color and profile selection guidance specific to Texas heat
- Energy savings projections for your home
- Insurance discount verification (confirm Class 4 savings)
- Lifetime cost analysis (Decra vs shingles vs other materials)
- Financing options ($0 down, 0% APR available with approved credit)
- Workmanship warranty details (15-30 years in writing)
- Answers to all your questions
Why Choose Ripple Roofing:
- ✅ Decra-Certified Installer (factory-trained, current certification)
- ✅ 25+ Decra Installations in Central Texas (Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, San Antonio)
- ✅ CertainTeed Shingle Master™ Certified
- ✅ 15-Year Workmanship Warranty (written guarantee)
- ✅ Local Company (Round Rock-based, not storm chasers—we'll be here in 20 years)
- ✅ Transparent Pricing (detailed breakdown, no surprises)
- ✅ $0 Down Financing (with approved credit)
- ✅ Warranty Registration Included (activate your Decra 50-year warranty)
Get Free Estimate or call (512) 366-0880
Serving all of Central Texas: Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Leander, Lakeway, Bee Cave, San Antonio, Boerne, New Braunfels, and surrounding areas.
Decra: The premium choice for Texas homeowners who want the absolute best stone-coated steel roofing money can buy—50-60 year lifespan, superior hail protection, and traditional beauty that never needs replacement.