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Roofing & Insurance: How Your Roof Material Impacts Coverage and Costs

March 25, 2025

Understanding Roof Materials and Insurance: What Homeowners Should Know

In recent years, the increase in natural disasters and rising reconstruction costs have prompted many insurance carriers to reassess their policies. Homeowners and business property owners alike are seeing changes that often center around one critical part of their property: the roof. Let’s explore the pros and cons of different roofing materials and why insurance companies are implementing stricter guidelines regarding roof coverage.

Why Does Your Roof Matter to Insurance Companies?

A roof plays a central role in protecting a home from the elements, and its condition directly affects a property’s insurability. Insurers often view the roof as a key factor when determining coverage options, renewal eligibility, and premium costs. As roofs age, insurers may:

How Roof Age Affects Insurance Coverage

While roof age policies vary by carrier, many insurers are more cautious when a roof exceeds 20 years. Older roofs are more susceptible to damage and may prompt insurers to impose stricter guidelines. Regular inspections and maintenance can influence how a carrier views your roof’s condition.

Common Roofing Materials: Pros, Cons, and Insurance Considerations

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material due to their affordability and accessibility. Historically, they last between 15-30 years, but some insurers are reducing the acceptable age range for coverage.

Pros:
  • Cost-effective
  • Variety of colors and styles
  • Easy to install and replace
Cons:
  • Shorter lifespan compared to other materials
  • Vulnerable to severe weather damage
  • May require more maintenance over time

Insurance carriers may have specific guidelines around the age and condition of asphalt shingle roofs. It can be helpful to consult your Robertson Ryan Insurance Agent before upgrades to understand how different shingle types are evaluated. Here is a thoughtful blog on how to get to get the most from a shingled roof, with more insights into how weather and warranties factor into their lifespan from one of our carriers.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs offer durability and can last between 40-70 years, making them an appealing option for long-term homeowners.

Pros:

  • Low maintenance
  • Resistant to wind, hail, and fire
  • Energy-efficient, reflecting heat to reduce cooling costs

Cons:

  • Higher initial cost
  • Potential for noise during heavy rain
  • Cosmetic damage like dents may not always be covered

While metal roofs generally last longer, it’s beneficial to clarify with your agent whether cosmetic damage is included in your policy.

Tile Roofs (Clay, Concrete, or Slate)

Tile roofs are known for their overall longevity and durability, when compared to other roofing materials. They are the most popular roofing product in the world. While in the US, they are most common in warmer climates due to their resilience against heat and salt water air.

Pros:

  • Durable and fire-resistant
  • Aesthetic appeal
  • Long lifespan with proper maintenance

Cons:

  • Heavy, requiring strong structural support
  • Higher installation costs
  • Brittle and may crack in extreme weather – such as coastal places like Florida, where sun, heavy rains and strong hurricane-strength winds, can shorten the potential age your roof may achieve.

Because of their durability, tile roofs often qualify for extended coverage, but repairs can be specialized and costly. Regular maintenance can help maintain eligibility for comprehensive coverage.

Wood Shingles and Shakes

Wood roofs offer a natural aesthetic but require significant upkeep to maintain their integrity and are increasingly being excluded from carriers for coverage. Their lifespan is generally 20-30 years with proper maintenance.

Pros:

  • Aesthetic appeal for traditional or rustic designs
  • Can be crafted from sustainable materials

Cons:

  • Higher maintenance requirements
  • Susceptible to mold, mildew, and rot
  • Increasingly excluded by certain insurance carriers

It is very important to verify with your Robertson Ryan Insurance Agent or insurance company directly to determine whether they offer coverage for wood roofs, as many carriers are limiting or excluding them due to their vulnerability to fire and decay.

Slate Roofs

Slate roofs are among the most durable options, with lifespans extending from 75 to 150 years.

Pros:

  • Exceptional longevity
  • Fire and weather-resistant
  • Minimal maintenance required

Cons:

  • Significant upfront cost
  • Heavyweight necessitates strong roof support
  • Specialized repairs can be costly

For those seeking a long-term solution, slate offers substantial durability, though understanding how your policy handles potential repair costs is advisable.

Flat Roofs

Flat roofs are often used in modern architecture. Their lifespan varies widely depending on the materials used and the climate, ranging from 10 to 50 years.

Pros:

  • Modern aesthetic
  • Easier to inspect and access

Cons:

  • Vulnerable to water pooling and leaks
  • Regular maintenance required

Given the variability in lifespan, insurers may request more frequent inspections and maintenance documentation for flat roofs.

What Homeowners Can Do to Stay Informed

  1. Schedule Regular Roof Inspections: Routine inspections help catch minor issues before they become major problems and demonstrate proactive maintenance to your insurer.
  2. Document Repairs and Maintenance: Keep records and photos of all roof work to provide a clear history of upkeep.
  3. Consult Your Insurance Agent: Policies can vary widely between carriers. An open dialogue with your insurance agent can clarify how your roof material and age impact coverage.

Final Thoughts

The roof over your head plays a crucial role in your home’s safety and insurability. Understanding the pros and cons of roofing materials and how they affect your insurance coverage can help you make informed decisions. Regular maintenance, documentation, and staying in communication with your Robertson Ryan Insurance Agent can go a long way in ensuring you remain covered under your policy.

*Please note that we rely on independent sources, and recommend conducting further research or to seek guidance from a qualified industry professional, legal counsel, or licensed insurance agent as appropriate for your needs. These blog posts are intended for general informational purposes only.