7 Tips for Identifying Asphalt Shingle Damage
On average Texas experiences fifty to sixty days a year of rainstorms. Thunderstorms with high winds and severe hail occur on about a third of those days. While severe thunderstorms are most common in the spring and summer, they can occur just about any time of year in South and Central Texas. Sure, it is impressively hot and dry in Austin right now but be careful what you wish for because Texas has other weather. The flipside to intense arid weather is cool grey and wet weather during autumn and winter. Meteorological fall started September 1st and astronomical autumn began September 21st, followed quickly hopefully wetter weather to fill up the lake as holidays near. Summer’s not over quite yet even though the calendar states otherwise.
Research has shown that heat damage to roof structural systems can lead to increased wind pressure on interior surfaces and the loss of lateral support to walls. The intense heat in Austin, TX, can accelerate the deterioration of your roofing materials. For example, asphalt shingles commonly used in residential roofs can become brittle, crack, or curl under prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Steel metal roofs may expand and contract, causing fasteners and joints to weaken. Water leaking through a failed roofing system can wreak havoc on interior contents and even weaken and collapse ceilings placing occupants at risk of injury.
Your home is likely your biggest investment. Compromised roof covering can impact its ability to shed water, resulting in water intrusion and interior damage. This is not only inconvenient but can also result in a significant financial burden. In addition to the financial benefits, insurance for your roof can also help in maintaining the functionality of critical and essential facilities within your home. Having a proper homeowners insurance policy for your roof provides peace of mind knowing that you are protected in the event of hail or windstorm.
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There are a variety of optional endorsements to help you close coverage gaps and tailor insurance to meet your specific needs in addition to coverage for your house roofing systems. As they say, “only pay for what you need.” Which is right for you– the roof payment schedule or the replacement cost?
Insurance companies call add-on features endorsements. Most insurance companies offer a basic policy that may cover fire, lightning, hail, tornadoes, and similar items. Ask your agent about features that can be added to your policy or request higher than basic limits. Some basic examples are below.
- Extended Dwelling Coverage: Provides an additional percentage of the dwelling coverage amount should repair or replacement exceed the original dwelling coverage amount displayed on the declarations page.
- Sewer and Water Backup & Seepage or Leakage: Provides coverage for building and personal property when a loss occurs caused by water that backs up through, or overflows from, a sewer, drain, sump, sump pump, or system on the residence premises designated to remove subsurface water. This coverage does not apply if the loss is flood-induced.
- Service Line Coverage: Optional coverage for physical loss or damage to covered service lines on the residence premises that is the direct result of a service line failure (limit and deductible apply). Covered losses include, but are not limited to, wear and tear, rust and corrosion, mechanical breakdown, freezing or frost heave, and tree or other root invasions.
It is highly recommended to have home insurance for your dwelling’s roof to protect against wind damage and severe thunderstorms or even hail. Historically, wind hazards have caused immense economic losses in Texas, with fallen trees, failed roof coverings, or solar panels resulting in damage to both commercial and residential properties.
Ask your local independent insurance agent to help navigate your options as coverage varies by insurance company. Start your quote now! You can by bundling auto and home with some of our insurance carriers.
Additional Resources
- Severe Weather Safety Tips
- Protect your home from Water Damage
- What is the average home insurance cost in Texas?
*Descriptions of insurance products are meant to offer general ideas only, are necessarily brief, and are subject to policy provisions, limits, deductibles, exclusions, and conditions that can only be expressed in the policy itself. In the event of a conflict, the terms and conditions of your policy prevail. This information is provided solely as an insurance risk management tool.
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