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Guide to a Smart Roof: How A New Metal Roof Can Save You Big on Insurance

September , 2023 | 10 min. read

By Nick Wagner

White clad home with a bright red metal roof

Thinking of upgrading to a metal roof? Are the rumors about lower insurance premiums myths or a chance to save money?

We know you're curious and that you want to make smart financial decisions for your home.

RoofCrafters has been installing metal roofs for 3 decades. We've seen that a roof is more than just a roof. It's an investment in your home's integrity and your financial future. With over 30 years in the business, we bring a wealth of experience to roofing solutions. We’re the experts who think about the long-term implications of your roofing choices. We understand we're not just installing roofs; we're installing peace of mind.

So, in this article, we’re going to lay it all out for you:

  • Why insurance companies love metal roofs.
  • How secondary waterproofing can add another layer of savings?
  • The power of wind mitigation in insurance cost-reduction.
  • How to have the "money talk" with your insurance agent.
  • The potential savings you could enjoy.

Are you ready to dive into the dollars and cents of metal roofing? Let's get started.

Why Insurance Companies Are Head Over Heels for Metal Roofs

 

2 story home with bright blue metal roof

So, you've heard whispers that a metal roof could be the golden ticket to lower insurance premiums, and you're wondering if it's true. Allow us to remove the shroud of mystery. Insurance companies are like that strict teacher who secretly has a soft spot for the diligent student. And in this classroom of roofing materials, metal roofs are the valedictorians.

Why, you ask?

Well, metal roofs are like the Swiss Army knives of the roofing world. They're durable, fire-resistant, and stand strong against the forces of nature. Imagine a storm coming through. Shingles might blow away like a kite caught in a gust, but a metal roof? It'll sit tight, yawning at the tempest around it. That's the kind of dependability insurers love. It's like hiring a security guard for your home, one who works 24/7 and never takes a coffee break.

2 story home with a galvalume metal roof

Plus, metal roofs have an impressive lifespan, often up to 50 years or more. That's half a century without needing a roof replacement! Less frequent replacements mean a stronger roof with fewer claims. Fewer claims make insurance companies happier than a kid in the toy section of Target.

A metal roof could be your gateway to cheaper insurance rates because they pose less of a risk for things like weather damage and fire. Less risk equals fewer claims, and fewer claims lead to—you guessed it—more money in your pocket!

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How Secondary Waterproofing Can Add Another Layer of Savings

 

"Hey, why stop at a metal roof?" you might be thinking. "Let's go all-in on this insurance discount game!" Good news—there's another ace up your sleeve: secondary waterproofing.

ice and water shield underlayment on a new construction home

Think of secondary waterproofing as the Robin to your metal roof's Batman. Alone, they're powerful, but together they form an unbeatable duo. In roofing lingo, we often refer to this as an "ice and water shield," and it's a second layer of defense against water infiltration.

Here's how it works. Your metal roof already deflects most of the water like a champ. But in those nooks and crannies where water might try to sneak in? That's where your secondary waterproofing comes in. It’s like that meticulous friend who always double-checks your travel plans to ensure nothing goes wrong.

GAF storm guard roof leak barrier

This matters to insurance companies because water damage is a significant cause of insurance claims. Water leaks can cause mold, spoil structural integrity, and even lead to electrical issues. That's a whole bundle of worries you don't need and a list of claims that insurance companies dread. With secondary waterproofing in place, you're reducing the likelihood of these claims even further.

house with ice and water underlayment

By adding an ice and water shield, you're telling your insurance company that your roof is safe; it's Fort Knox-level secure. They like that. And because they like that, they'll often like you in the form of reduced premiums.

So, investing in secondary waterproofing? It’s like buying a VIP ticket to the world of insurance discounts. What’s not to love?

The Power of Wind Mitigation in Insurance Cost-Reduction

 

You've got a metal roof. You've added secondary waterproofing. But wait, there's more! Have you ever thought about wind mitigation? No, it's not the name of a new superhero movie; it's your next step to even greater insurance savings.

Metal roof standing after hurricane

Imagine your roof is a knight in shining armor. It's already darn tough with that metal exterior and waterproof underlay. But with wind mitigation measures, you're giving that knight a shield and sword to fend off wind damage like a pro.

large modern home with standing seam hip roof

Now, you're not guessing whether your home can withstand high winds; you're ensuring it. And in the insurance world, certainty equates to savings. After all, wind damage is another big reason people file insurance claims. We're talking about shingles blown off, gutters damaged, and, in worst cases, expensive structural damage.

Roof with serious wind damage

At RoofCrafters, we understand the aerodynamics of roofing like the back of our hands. We can make weak areas stronger, secure each section better, and add features that handle wind pressure well. It's like turning your roof into an aerodynamic wonder. Think of it as giving your home its very own windbreaker—but better!

RoofCrafters supervisor inspecting crews work

So how does this translate to insurance benefits? Homeowners who can show their homes have wind protection may get discounts from insurance companies. Usually, this involves having an inspection done by a certified professional. They check different parts of your home to make it stronger against wind damage. Then they give you a certificate, which is your golden ticket to those sweet, sweet insurance discounts.

In summary, wind mitigation is like the cherry on top of your secure home sundae. And like a sundae being better with a cherry, your home is better with wind mitigation—and your insurance premium will reflect that.

How to Have the "Money Talk" with Your Insurance Agent

 

man holding an insurance sign with a model home

Ah, the "money talk"—something we all dread but know we must face. It’s like that awkward conversation you avoid at family gatherings, but way more lucrative for you. You've invested in a metal roof, added secondary waterproofing, and even went full-on 'Fort Knox' with wind mitigation. Now it’s time to let those investments work their magic on your insurance premium.

paper money paper house built with hundred dollar bills

Here at RoofCrafters, we've been guiding homeowners through this process for years. While we don’t like to eavesdrop on your private conversations, we do love hearing that our clients are saving money. We’re not just in the business of roofs; we're in the business of savings and peace of mind.

handshake upclose

Before picking up the phone or heading to your insurance agent's office, arm yourself with information. Make sure you understand your upgrades: the metal type, the waterproofing brand, and the wind mitigation details. The more you know, the more you can advocate for yourself.

written insurance policy

When talking to your agent, be upfront but also be prepared for a bit of back-and-forth. Insurance companies deal with risk, and you've reduced yours significantly. Inquire about what documentation they need. Often, they’ll want an inspection certificate or a statement from a licensed contractor—ahem, that’s us. And sometimes they may need before-and-after photos. So, go ahead, and make your roof Instagram-famous; it's for a good cause!

hands holding a phone showing communication

Also, don’t be shy about asking how each upgrade will affect your premiums. Remember, insurance companies often have different discount categories. Make sure you’re benefiting from each one that applies to you. If your agent seems unaware of specific discounts, politely ask them to check. You're not asking for a favor; you're negotiating a service you pay for.

In conclusion, the "money talk" doesn’t have to be awkward or daunting. It’s a necessary step to cash in on all the smart decisions you’ve made for your home. And trust us, once you see those reduced premiums, every awkward moment will be worth it.

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The Potential Savings You Could Enjoy

 

Alright, let's get to the part we've all been waiting for—the grand finale where you find out how much moolah you could be stashing back into your wallet. It's like discovering an old coat with a $20 bill in the pocket, but this time it's a roof and those savings roll in year after year.

graph showing an increase in savings

Now, you should know that exact savings can vary based on a lot of factors. We're talking about where your home is, how big it is, what metal the roof is made of, and your insurance company's policies. But here at RoofCrafters, we've seen clients save anywhere from 15% to 35% on their insurance premiums after making these upgrades. Yeah, you read that right: up to 35%! Imagine what you could do with that extra cash—take a vacation, fund a hobby, or even add more upgrades to your house.

For example, let's say your current home insurance premium is $1,500 a year. A 15% discount (which is well within the realm of possibility) would save you $225 a year. That might not sound like a ton, but over 10 years, you'd save $2,250.

Now, what if you reach that 35% savings threshold? You'd be looking at a cushy $525 off each year or $5,250 over a decade. You could fund a pretty nice getaway with that sort of savings. Don't you think?

But remember, you have to play your cards right.  Learn how to talk about money with your agent. Each step is a vital part of the process that leads to these awesome savings.

When you invest in your home with a metal roof, secondary waterproofing, and wind mitigation, you're creating a strong and safe haven. You're making a savvy choice that pays off—quite literally—in the long run. At RoofCrafters, we're not just installing metal roofing. For over 30 years we've been providing the highest level of protection for homes and helping homeowners save money!

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Nick Wagner

My name’s Nick Wagner, and I was born in Linz, Austria, and raised in Florida. In recent years, my involvement and experience as a law enforcement officer has allowed me to develop a keen familiarity with my community, and I am now eager to assist as part of the RoofCrafters family. During my off-time, I enjoy jet skiing, reading, web designing, and spending time with my two children, Payton and Paul.