Roofing replacement is a great opportunity for you, as a homeowner, to consider the best quality roofing material for your home and location. But beyond the aesthetics and durability, don’t forget insurance! From roof durability to life expectancy and return on investment (ROI), here is everything you need to know about choosing the right roofing materials for insurance purposes.
Why Roofing Materials Matter for Insurance
If you’re planning on roofing replacement, we have good news! Investing in a new roof is a great way to lower your homeowner’s insurance premiums and increase your chances of coverage for any roof damage that may occur. While the specifics may vary depending on your policy, generally, you can expect a positive relationship between your roofing and homeowner’s insurance.
Good-quality roofing materials will mean lower premiums and better insurance coverage. Why? Insurance companies know that roof damages and wear and tear are less likely when a roof is constructed of high-quality materials. So it’s a win-win!
What to Look for in Quality Roofing Materials
When considering your options for roofing materials and how they may impact your homeowner’s insurance, you should consider the following factors:
1. Roof Durability
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, which means durability is an essential component in the quality of the roofing material. Roofing materials with greater durability are less susceptible to damage from extreme weather conditions. More affordable but less durable materials may require repairs much more often, resulting in higher insurance premiums compared to their durable counterparts. Highly durable materials are capable of withstanding strong storms before requiring any repair or replacement. This simplifies your life over the long haul.
2. Roof Life Expectancy
The longevity of roofing replacement should be a minimum of 15 years. But some materials can last as long many decades in favorable conditions. The average lifespan of any quality roofing material is 25 to 50 years, with some variations. A roof’s life expectancy is also influenced by the durability of the roofing material, as a less durable material won’t stand up under pressure as well as a sturdier alternative.
3. Cost (and ROI)
The initial cost of your roofing replacement won’t directly affect your insurance premium. But spending slightly more now can mean paying less later in insurance and roof repairs. More expensive roofing materials generally are going to be more durable and longer lasting. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find a quality roofing material that gives a good balance of affordability, ROI, and durability!
Three Best Roofing Materials
While there are many options for roofing replacement, three stand out as quality roofing materials that will get a seal of approval from your insurance provider: asphalt, metal, and slate.
1. Asphalt Shingles
Life Expectancy: 15 to 30 Years
Durability: Good
Cost: $4 to $8 per square foot
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing replacement material for residential homes because of the overall balance of cost, durability, and longevity. Thanks to the typical 25-year warranty, durability isn’t a significant concern with asphalt shingles. Even so, they can withstand severe weather conditions, although they may not be the best option for intense temperature extremes experienced in some parts of the country.
The high-quality asphalt shingles we offer at Rolox Home Service are warp-resistant and flexible, ensuring your roof will last its entire expected lifespan and withstand Kansas City storms.
2. Metal Roofing
Life Expectancy: 40 to 70 years
Durability: Varies
Cost: $5 to $35 per square foot
Metal roofing is the most versatile quality roofing material, with multiple options that vary greatly in longevity, durability, and cost. For Kansas and Missouri homes, steel roofing is the most popular, being more affordable than other metal options while still lasting up to 70 years and mimicking the appearance of higher-end metals like copper or zinc.
At Rolox Home Service, we provide stone-coated steel roofing that blends lightweight design with tough-to-beat protection, making it the ultimate choice for durable roofing!
3. Slate Roofing
Life Expectancy: 50 to 75 years
Durability: Excellent
Cost: $15 to $30 per square foot
The biggest drawback of slate roofing is obvious: the cost. Slate roofing is among the more expensive roofing materials because of its durability, long life span even in harsh conditions, and low maintenance material.
Despite its hardy nature, slate roofing is expensive and difficult to repair if damage does occur. Slate is brittle, and as a result, direct impact can result in cracks. It can also be easily damaged during utility repairs or other work being performed on your roof. Plus, slate is heavy, and you may need additional roofing reinforcements prior to installation. The very high cost of installation and repair makes it impractical for most residential homes.
Need Roof Replacement?
If you’re looking for high-quality roofing materials for your roof replacement, our asphalt shingles and metal roofing options are just what you need! Contact us today to learn more about our roof replacement services, and feel free to ask any questions you may have about how a Rolox roof may affect your homeowner’s insurance (spoiler alert: it’ll be for the better!)
