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Why Get a Roof Inspection?

By Allen Anderson, SVP, Chief Underwriting Officer, Personal Lines

The Importance of Regular Roof Inspections

Roof failure is one of the most significant threats to residential property, with industry data confirming that roof-related damage accounts for 70-90% of total insured residential catastrophic losses annually. Despite this risk, many homeowners misinterpret “lifetime” or “30-year” roof warranties and neglect to maintain this critical protective system. 

Proper roof management extends lifespan, lowers lifetime costs, and enhances investment returns. By bridging the gap between marketed claims and real-world performance, you transform what many consider a maintenance burden into a strategic asset management approach. The evidence is clear: proactive roof strategies deliver measurable outcomes for customers and carriers, protecting properties and financial well-being against increasingly severe weather patterns. 

Professional Preventive Maintenance Schedule 

Seasonal maintenance from a licensed roofing contractor or home inspection company can help your roof function properly year-round. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) directory can help you find qualified professionals in your area. 

Schedule a spring check-up to ensure your roof’s structure remains sound. Summer’s intense heat and UV radiation can gradually break down roofing materials, so mid-year inspections can catch early signs of deterioration before they worsen. Clear drainage paths and prepare water management systems during the fall before winter storms. When winter hits, manage snow loads proactively and prevent ice dams that can force water under your shingles. 

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What Factors Affect Roof Lifespan?

The following framework for strategic roof management demonstrates how proactive investment in appropriate materials and routine maintenance can help reduce risk, lower lifetime costs, and stabilize insurance premiums. By understanding these roof-related best practices, homeowners can help improve insurance outcomes and protect their most significant asset.

When homeowners glance at their roof, they usually see it for what it does – protect their house from the elements – but not how it works. The top layer of shingles or other material conceals a carefully engineered system of interdependent components. Most roofs in the U.S. consist of: 

  • Roof Structure: Engineered trusses or rafter assemblies designed to specific load requirements 

  • Roof Deck: Structural panels (typically 1/2” or 5/8” plywood or Oriented Strand Boards (OSB) secured with appropriate fastener patterns) 

  • Underlayment: Waterproof membrane providing secondary moisture protection (a minimum felt of 15 lb. is the most common, though 30 lb. is better and commonly used on wood shake, tile, and non-shingled roofs) 

  • Roof Cover: Primary weather barrier with specific wind and impact ratings 

  • Flashing: Precisely formed metal components that prevent water intrusion at joints or intersections 

  • Ventilation: Calibrated intake and exhaust components to maintain proper attic temperature and moisture levels 

Click here to download the full whitepaper for detailed strategies, performance tables, and expert guidance. 

 

Roofing materials are more than aesthetics—they are a critical investment in a home’s long-term protection and value. When selecting materials, homeowners should evaluate several key factors, as shown in the table below.

Material

Marketed Lifespan

Realistic Lifespan

Weather Resistance

Cost

Best Application

Insurance Considerations

Asphalt Shingles

30 years

22-25years

Good heat and hail resistance; moderate wind resistance (less after ~10 years)

$

Most regions and budgets

Discounts may be available for impact-resistant versions

Metal Roofing

40-70 years

25-50 years

Excellent heat and wind resistance; good hail resistance

$$$

Coastal regions, high-wind areas, and fire-prone regions

Favorable pricing may be available due to longevity and fire resistance

Tile Roofing

50-100 years

30-70 years

Superior heatfire and wind resistance; excellent durability; poor hail resistance

$$$$

Mediterranean climates, coastal properties, luxury homes

Potentially lower premiums due to the durability of the tile roofs

 

Click here to download the full whitepaper for detailed strategies, performance tables, and expert guidance. 


What Steps Can You Take Before a Roof Inspection?

The most effective roof protection strategy starts before the storm arrives. Proactive homeowners and insurance professionals can transform roof management from a reactive burden to a proactive asset protection strategy.

  1. Record your roof’s age (date of last replacement) and any repairs or maintenance.
  2. Contact your independent insurance agent to understand how the condition of your roof affects your coverage.
  3. If your roof is over 15 years old, schedule an inspection with a qualified roofing professional to identify potential issues before they escalate.

 

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