Franciscus Roofing

When applying for home insurance, the condition and construction of your roof is one of the most important factors insurers evaluate. The type of roofing material on your home can influence how much you pay for coverage.

Insurance companies look at your roof to estimate how well it will protect your home from damage. Materials that are more resistant to weather, fire, and aging are generally considered less risky and may lead to lower insurance rates.

The kind of roof you have also affects how much it would cost to replace if damaged. Some materials cost more to repair or replace, and this cost is factored into your premium.

Understanding how different roofing materials are viewed by insurers can help you see why your roof affects your insurance costs.

Why Roofing Material Matters For Home Insurance

Insurance companies assess roof risk by examining how likely a roof will lead to a claim. They analyze data on how different materials perform during storms, fires, and over time. This risk assessment directly affects your premium rates.

Different roofing materials have different risk profiles based on their durability and resistance to damage. For example, a metal roof might withstand high winds better than asphalt shingles, resulting in fewer claims and potentially lower premiums.

The insurance industry categorizes roofing materials based on their:

• Durability rating: Materials that last longer without needing replacement typically result in fewer claims over time, which can lower premiums.
• Weather resistance: Roofs that better withstand regional weather threats like Northeast Ohio’s snow, ice, and wind may qualify for better rates.
• Fire classification: Materials with higher fire resistance ratings (Class A being the best) often receive more favorable insurance terms.
• Impact resistance: Materials tested to withstand hail and falling debris may qualify for special discounts in storm-prone regions.

Insurance companies also consider regional weather patterns when evaluating roofing materials. In Northeast Ohio, where winter storms and freeze-thaw cycles are common, materials that handle moisture and temperature fluctuations well are viewed more favorably.

Does The Age Of Your Roof Affect Insurance Rates

The age of your roof significantly impacts your home insurance rates. Newer roofs typically qualify for lower premiums because they’re less likely to fail or leak during storms.

Most insurance companies start looking more closely at roofs once they reach 15-20 years old. This is when many common roofing materials begin showing signs of wear. For roofs over 20 years old, some insurers may require an inspection before offering or renewing coverage.

As roofs age, insurance companies often shift from offering “replacement cost value” (RCV) coverage to “actual cash value” (ACV) coverage. RCV pays to replace your damaged roof with a new one of similar quality, while ACV only pays what your old roof was worth after depreciation, leaving you to cover the difference.

Here’s how roof age typically affects insurance:

Roof Age	Insurance Impact	Coverage Considerations
0-5 years	Lowest premiums	Full replacement cost coverage usually available
6-15 years	Standard rates	Typically still eligible for replacement cost coverage
16-20 years	Higher premiums	May require inspection; some insurers begin offering only ACV
21+ years	Highest rates or coverage limitations	Many insurers only offer ACV or may decline coverage without proof of excellent maintenance

For homeowners with older roofs, insurance companies may request maintenance records or professional inspection reports to verify the roof’s condition before offering coverage.

How Roof Types For Insurance Compare

Insurance companies classify different roofing materials based on their performance history and risk factors. These classifications directly influence your premium rates and coverage options.

1. Metal

Metal roofing earns favorable insurance ratings due to its durability and resistance to fire, wind, and impact damage. These roofs typically last 40-70 years with minimal maintenance.

From an insurance perspective, metal roofs often qualify for premium discounts ranging from 5-25% because they’re less likely to be damaged during storms. In Northeast Ohio, where winter weather can be harsh, metal roofs shed snow effectively and resist ice dam formation.

Insurance companies particularly value metal roofing’s Class A fire rating and strong performance against wind uplift. Many metal roofing products also carry UL 2218 Class 4 impact ratings, the highest available.

2. Slate And Tile

Slate and tile roofs receive excellent insurance ratings for their exceptional longevity (50-100+ years) and superior fire resistance. These materials don’t burn, rot, or get damaged by insects.

Insurance companies recognize the durability of these materials but also factor in their high replacement cost. While premiums may be lower due to reduced risk of damage, coverage limits may need to be higher to adequately insure these premium materials.

In Northeast Ohio’s climate, slate holds up well but requires professional installation and occasional maintenance to prevent damage from freeze-thaw cycles. Insurance companies may request verification that slate or tile roofs were properly installed according to manufacturer specifications.

3. Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common residential roofing material in America, and insurance companies have extensive data on their performance. Standard three-tab shingles typically last 15-25 years, while premium architectural shingles may last 25-30 years.

From an insurance standpoint, basic asphalt shingles receive average ratings. However, premium impact-resistant asphalt shingles (UL 2218 Class 3 or 4) may qualify for insurance discounts, especially in areas prone to hail.

Insurance companies consider both the grade of asphalt shingle and its age when calculating premiums. In Northeast Ohio, where temperature fluctuations are common, higher-quality asphalt shingles with proper attic ventilation tend to perform better and may receive more favorable insurance terms.

4. Wood Shakes Or Shingles

Wood roofing materials present the highest insurance risk due to their flammability and susceptibility to water damage, rot, and insect infestation. These roofs typically last 20-30 years with proper maintenance.

Many insurance companies charge higher premiums for homes with wood roofs, and some may decline coverage entirely unless the wood has been treated with fire retardants. Even treated wood shakes may receive less favorable insurance terms compared to non-combustible alternatives.

For homeowners in Northeast Ohio with wood roofing, insurance companies may require regular maintenance documentation and proof of fire-retardant treatments to maintain coverage. Some insurers also require more frequent inspections for these roof types.

Does A New Roof Affect Insurance

Installing a new roof typically lowers home insurance premiums. The reduction varies based on material choice, but homeowners often see decreases between 5-20% after roof replacement.

To receive these discounts, you’ll need to provide your insurance company with documentation of the roof replacement. This usually includes:

• The installation date
• Material type and manufacturer
• Contractor information and proof of professional installation
• Any special ratings (impact resistance, fire rating, etc.)

Most insurance companies have a simple process for reporting home improvements like a new roof. You can typically notify your insurer by:

1. Contacting your agent directly
2. Submitting documentation through your online account
3. Calling the customer service number on your policy

The insurance benefits of a new roof include:

• Lower premiums: A new roof reduces the risk of leaks and storm damage, which insurers reward with better rates.
• Better coverage options: New roofs typically qualify for full replacement cost coverage rather than actual cash value.
• Fewer claim complications: When damage does occur, claims on newer roofs tend to be processed more smoothly since there’s less question about pre-existing conditions.
• Potential for special discounts: Impact-resistant or fire-resistant materials may qualify for additional savings.

Tips To Help Lower Roofing-Related Insurance Costs

Understanding how your roof affects your home insurance can help you make choices that keep your premiums affordable. Here are practical ways to manage roofing-related insurance costs:

1. Schedule Regular Roof Inspections

Regular professional inspections help identify minor issues before they become major problems that could lead to insurance claims or coverage issues.

Most roofing experts recommend inspections:

• Once per year (typically in spring)
• After major storms with high winds or hail
• If you notice interior water stains or missing shingles

Keep documentation of all inspections, including written reports and photos. Insurance companies may request this information to verify you’ve maintained your roof properly, especially if it’s older or you’re filing a claim.

2. Use Impact-Resistant Materials

Impact-resistant roofing materials are tested to withstand hail and falling debris without cracking or breaking. The UL 2218 standard classifies materials from Class 1 (lowest) to Class 4 (highest) based on impact resistance.

Many insurance companies offer discounts for homes with Class 4 impact-resistant roofing. These discounts typically range from 5-30%, depending on your location and insurance provider.

To qualify for these discounts, you’ll need documentation showing:

• The impact rating of your roofing material
• Proof that it was properly installed
• Product warranty information

In Northeast Ohio, where hailstorms occur regularly, impact-resistant roofing can be a worthwhile investment both for home protection and insurance savings.

3. Maintain Proper Ventilation And Drainage

Proper attic ventilation and roof drainage systems prevent many common roofing problems that lead to insurance claims. Poor ventilation can cause shingles to deteriorate prematurely, while inadequate drainage can lead to water damage.

Signs of ventilation problems include:

• Excessive heat in your attic
• Ice dams forming along roof edges in winter
• Moisture or mold in the attic
• Premature shingle deterioration

Insurance companies may deny claims for damage resulting from poor ventilation or drainage, considering these to be maintenance issues rather than covered perils. Addressing these concerns proactively helps maintain your coverage and prevent premium increases.

How Your Roof Affects Your Home Insurance Maintenance Requirements

Your home insurance policy likely contains specific requirements for roof maintenance. Failing to meet these requirements could result in denied claims or even policy cancellation.

Most insurance policies require homeowners to:

1. Make timely repairs when damage occurs
2. Take reasonable steps to prevent further damage after a loss
3. Maintain the property in good condition

1. Address Minor Repairs Quickly

Small roofing issues can quickly become major problems if left unaddressed. A single missing shingle can allow water to penetrate the roof deck, leading to structural damage and mold.

Insurance companies expect homeowners to make reasonable repairs to prevent further damage. If you notice missing shingles, damaged flashing, or other minor issues, addressing them promptly helps maintain your insurance coverage.

Document all repairs with receipts, photos, and contractor information. This documentation can be valuable if you need to file a claim later, as it demonstrates your commitment to proper maintenance.

2. Clear Debris And Ensure Gutters Are Clean

Clogged gutters and debris on your roof can lead to water backup, ice dams, and premature deterioration of roofing materials. These maintenance issues can affect your insurance coverage if they contribute to damage.

Regular maintenance should include:

• Clearing leaves and debris from the roof surface
• Cleaning gutters and downspouts at least twice yearly
• Trimming overhanging branches that could damage the roof
• Checking for proper drainage after heavy rain

Insurance companies may consider damage resulting from neglected maintenance to be the homeowner’s responsibility rather than a covered peril. Keeping up with these simple tasks helps ensure your coverage remains valid.

Your Next Steps With Franciscus Roofing

Understanding how your roofing choices affect your insurance rates can help you make informed decisions about roof repair or replacement. The right roofing material can provide both protection for your home and potential insurance savings.

Professional installation is crucial for both roof performance and insurance purposes. Properly installed roofing materials are more likely to perform as expected during severe weather, reducing the likelihood of claims.

Franciscus Roofing specializes in installing insurance-friendly roofing systems for Northeast Ohio homes. Their team understands local weather challenges and insurance requirements, helping homeowners select materials that provide both protection and potential premium savings.

To request a free roof inspection or estimate, visit https://1866staydry.com/ez-quick-quote/.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roofing And Insurance

How do I prove my roof is impact-resistant to my insurance company?

Provide your insurer with the manufacturer’s documentation showing the UL 2218 impact rating (Class 1-4) and your contractor’s installation certificate verifying the materials were installed according to specifications.

Do insurance companies offer discounts for roof certifications?

Many insurance companies offer discounts of 5-20% for roofs with professional certifications, particularly those verifying impact resistance, proper installation, or extended warranties.

How much can I save on insurance with a new metal roof?

A new metal roof typically reduces insurance premiums by 5-35%, with the exact amount depending on your location, insurance provider, and whether the metal roofing has impact-resistance certification.

Will installing a new roof help if my insurance was canceled due to roof age?

Yes, replacing an aged roof often allows for reinstatement of canceled policies, as the primary concern about old roofs is eliminated. Contact the insurer after replacement with documentation of the new roof to begin the reinstatement process.